Texas Housing Assistance Programs
Rental and housing stability programs in Texas are administered primarily through TDHCA, local housing authorities, and the Texas General Land Office (GLO) for disaster recovery. Section 8 vouchers and project-based rental assistance are the main long-term tools.
TDHCA Housing Choice Voucher Program
TDHCA allocates vouchers to regional housing authorities. Open waitlist announcements are posted on authority websites.
What it provides: Tenant-based rental vouchers subsidizing rent in privately owned housing.
Assistance: Pays portion of rent directly to landlord; tenant pays 30% of adjusted income.
Eligibility: Income generally at or below 50% of area median income; PHA may prioritize homeless or disabled applicants.
Who may qualify:
- Very low-income Texas families
- Elderly and disabled households
- Meet local PHA screening rules
Requirements:
- Apply through local housing authority
- Background check
- Landlord must accept voucher
How to apply: Contact your local Texas housing authority. Many maintain closed waiting lists — ask about preferences and estimated wait times.
Official source: TDHCA — Housing Choice Vouchers
TDHCA Project-Based Rental Assistance
Unlike vouchers, assistance does not move with the tenant if they relocate.
What it provides: Rent subsidies tied to specific apartment communities rather than portable vouchers.
Assistance: Reduced rent at designated Texas apartment communities.
Eligibility: Income limits set per property; units designated for elderly, families, or disabled residents.
Who may qualify:
- Low-income tenants at participating properties
- Meet property-specific screening
Requirements:
- Apply at participating property management office
- Income verification
How to apply: Use TDHCA's affordable apartment search to find properties with current vacancies or waitlists.
Official source: TDHCA — Rental Housing Search
Texas GLO Housing Programs (Disaster & Community)
Post-hurricane and flood programs are time-limited. Combine with FEMA DisasterAssistance.gov registration.
What it provides: State-administered housing recovery and community development housing funds after disasters and for targeted needs.
Assistance: Repair assistance, temporary housing, and community infrastructure in declared disaster areas.
Eligibility: Varies by disaster declaration and funding round; income tests often apply.
Who may qualify:
- Disaster-affected homeowners and renters (program-specific)
- Communities with approved recovery plans
Requirements:
- Register with FEMA when applicable
- Document damage or displacement
- Meet GLO application windows
How to apply: Monitor the Texas General Land Office housing recovery portal after federal disaster declarations.
Official source: Texas General Land Office