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 Washington
Washington programs for this kind of help. Each agency decides who qualifies.
Washington has a fuller page for this topic. See all Washington help for this
Washington State Department of Social and Health Services and Washington State Department of Commerce
Housing and Essential Needs Referral
Also: Tenant-Based Rental Assistance
The HEN program connects eligible people who cannot work with essential-needs and housing-related services.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhonePaperIn person
Washington State Department of Commerce
Homelessness response programs
Commerce funds local programs that help people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
Ways to apply:PhoneIn person
Washington State Department of Commerce
Housing finance
The Housing Finance Commission offers homebuyer and affordable housing finance programs.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhone
Washington State Department of Commerce
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program
LIHEAP helps eligible households pay energy bills through local providers.
Ways to apply:PhoneIn person
Washington State Department of Commerce
Weatherization Program
Weatherization provides home improvements that can reduce energy use for eligible households.
Ways to apply:PhoneIn person
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
- Washington 211
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