Housing Assistance

Rent Relief Programs Accepting Applications This Month

Urgent Update for Renters Seeking Help

Many federal COVID-era rent assistance programs have ended or closed — but some local and state programs are still accepting applications right now. If you’re struggling to pay rent or at risk of eviction, read on: you may still qualify for help this month. Don’t wait — funds are often first-come, first-served and limited.

What You Should Know About Federal ERA Programs

The U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERA) provided billions in relief during the COVID-19 crisis. (home.treasury.gov)

ERA2’s period of performance ended on September 30, 2026, and grantees may no longer disburse assistance under that funding. (home.treasury.gov)
Many states have exhausted ERA funds or closed their application portals. (ncsha.org)
The national “ERA database” maintained by housing advocacy networks may indicate “no programs found” in some localities. (nlihc.org)

Bottom Line: If you hoped for federal-era rental assistance, in most cases that window has now closed. Your best chance is via state or local programs.

Local & State Programs Still Accepting Applications

Even though many large-scale programs have ended, there are still a few rent-relief opportunities open as of October 2026:

City of San Antonio, Texas

The Rental Assistance Program (via the City’s Neighborhood & Housing Services Department) opens on the second Wednesday of each month at 1 p.m., first-come, first-served. (311.sanantonio.gov)
Applicants can apply online via the City portal. (311.sanantonio.gov)
Be ready to submit proof of income, eligibility documentation, and to act quickly on the opening day.
Related: Resident Relocation Assistance Program (RRAP) helps with moving costs, deposit assistance, and temporary lodging support. (sa.gov)

Massachusetts — RAFT Program (Emergency Help for Housing Costs)

RAFT (Residential Assistance for Families in Transition) offers up to $7,000 per 12-month period for rent, utilities, and other housing-related costs. (mass.gov)
This is a state-administered program in Massachusetts and is intended for households that meet income eligibility and are facing housing instability.

Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program (MRVP)

Low-income families in Massachusetts may apply for the Massachusetts Rental Voucher Program via state housing agencies. (mass.gov)
However, availability may vary by county, and waiting lists may apply.

Why So Many Programs Are Closing — And What That Means for You

Budget & Policy Deadlines

Many assistance programs were funded during the COVID-19 emergency (e.g. via the American Rescue Plan or past pandemic-era appropriations).
As emergency declarations expired or funds were fully distributed, governments closed or wound down their programs.
ERA2, the 2nd tranche of federal emergency rental assistance, formally closed by September 30, 2026. (home.treasury.gov)

Local Variation & Timing Risk

Even when a state has a program in place, funding may run out or be paused at any moment.
Some local programs (like San Antonio’s) limit the number of applications accepted each cycle and close the portal quickly once capacity is reached.
Waiting lists may replace open applications once funds are exhausted.

Why Act Now

If your income qualifies and you meet eligibility criteria, applying as soon as the window opens boosts your chance to receive assistance.
Document-ready applications reduce delays.
Many dormant or closed programs offer referrals to local non-profit or housing authority resources, but those may have slower processing or limited funding.

How to Check Your Area & Apply

Identify your city or county housing authority website
- Search “[Your City] rental assistance” or visit USA.Gov’s “Get emergency rent assistance” portal. (usa.gov)
Use housing advocacy directories
- National Low Income Housing Coalition (NLIHC) maintains a state-by-state listing of rent & utility assistance programs. (nlihc.org)
Watch for local opening windows
- Some cities open only one day or one slot per month (e.g. San Antonio). Mark your calendar.
Prepare required documentation ahead of time
- Proof of income, lease agreements, utility bills, identification, and hardship statements are common requirements.
Contact your local 2-1-1 service or city housing office
- They can help you find programs you may not be aware of.

Final Thoughts — Don’t Give Up Hope

Though the federal emergency rental assistance window is mostly closed, local and state relief programs are still alive in pockets of the country. If you’re wrestling with rent arrears, eviction threat, or housing instability — you may still have a lifeline.

Check your city or county’s housing assistance calendar closely.
Be ready to apply quickly when application windows open.
Investigate state programs (like RAFT in Massachusetts, or local programs in your city).
Stay connected with community-based help (e.g. 2-1-1 hotlines, housing counseling agencies).

If you take action now, you may still access relief — don’t wait until it’s too late.