Housing
Ask about it
Tell us more about what you need. We answer first, then show the programs that fit, then ask a few questions to narrow it down.
Programs in the District of Columbia
District of Columbia programs for this kind of help. Each agency decides who qualifies.
Department of Human Services
Emergency Rental Assistance Program
ERAP helps eligible residents with rent arrears or costs for a security deposit and first month's rent.
Ways to apply:Phone
Department of Human Services
Homelessness Prevention and Diversion
These services help residents avoid shelter or move from shelter toward permanent housing.
Ways to apply:PhoneIn person
DC Housing Finance Agency
Homeownership and Affordable Housing Finance Programs
DCHFA finances homeownership and rental housing opportunities in the District.
Ways to apply:PhoneIn person
Department of Energy and Environment
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
LIHEAP helps eligible households pay heating and cooling energy costs.
Ways to apply:OnlinePaperIn person
Department of Energy and Environment
Weatherization Assistance Program
WAP makes approved home improvements that can lower energy use and improve safety.
Ways to apply:OnlinePaper
Checked on October 8, 2026
Federal programs
These work the same in every state. Each agency decides who qualifies.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)
Help paying rent in a home you choose, for families with very low income, older adults and people with disabilities. Local housing authorities run it, and many have waiting lists.
Apply through your local public housing authority. HUD lists every housing authority by state.
Federal Communications Commission
Lifeline phone and internet discount
A monthly discount on phone or internet service for households with low income or who get benefits like SNAP, Medicaid or SSI.
Check if you qualify and apply on the National Verifier, then pick a phone or internet company that offers Lifeline.
Federal Emergency Management Agency
FEMA disaster assistance
Help with a place to stay, repairs and other needs after a disaster the President has declared in your area.
Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov, by phone, or in person at a Disaster Recovery Center.
Checked on October 9, 2026
Talk to a person
- Answers, Please
Free help finding food, housing, bills and more near you.
Call 211 - 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 if you are in crisis or worried about someone. Any time.
Call 988Text 988