AffordableHousingOnline

Affordable Housing Online is monitoring the federal government's response to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak. As of March 13, 2020, Public Housing Agencies across the nation are closing their doors to the public. Most offices are still running and will communicate by phone, email, or mail. Some offices have drop boxes installed outside, so documents can still be hand-delivered. Visit the housing authority's website for the latest on its current operations, if one is available. If there is no information online, contact the housing authority directly. Due to a high volume of calls and modified office hours in most areas, expect a long wait time (days or weeks) for a response. To find your local PHA's contact info, browse by state here.

An extensive list of coronavirus resources for low-income households can be found here.

Read Affordable Housing Online's Resource for Coronavirus (COVID-19)

What Is the Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly Program?

The Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly program provides subsidized affordable apartment communities for elderly persons. These communities are owned by private management companies or an individual private owner. Program participants pay 30% of their net income for rent. You apply for a Section 202 apartment by submitting an application to the property’s management company or landlord. Applicants may apply nationwide, regardless of where they currently live. If the community does not have any available units, you will be placed on a waiting list.

Not all areas have properties that offer the Section 202 program, so check for properties in nearby cities and counties, as well.

Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly Guide

  1. How Do I Know If I’m Eligible?
    1. Confirm that you meet the basic qualifications.
    2. Calculate your household’s income.
    3. Determine if there are any preferences and/or restrictions.
    4. Be aware of common factors that may disqualify an application.
  2. How Do I Find an Available Section 202 Apartment?
    1. Contact the community through Affordable Housing Online.
    2. Obtain the application.
    3. Complete the application.
    4. Submit the application.
  3. What Happens After Applying for a Section 202 Apartment?
    1. Wait for the housing office to process applications.
    2. Confirm your waiting list status.
    3. Estimate your wait time.
    4. Stay in contact with the property manager.
    5. Attend final in-person eligibility interview.
    6. Move in to offered unit.