Where can I get help paying my rent?

Rental Assistance Programs

Apply at your regional Housing Consumer Education Center for:

• Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT)

Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT) 

RAFT can pay up to $10,000 in back rent or mortgage payments, utility bills, future rent, mortgage payments or moving costs if:

• You are homeless or about to become homeless, and

• Your income is less than 80% of Area Median Income.

RAFT sends payments to your landlord or mortgage company.

Apply for RAFT funds through Regional Housing Consumer Education Centers.

See the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD)'s webpage.

Note to immigrants

Your immigration status does not matter. Anyone can apply for RAFT.

Massachusetts 211

Dial 2-1-1 on your phone to find resources to pay for:

• rent,
• utilities,
• food, and
• child care.

Get the most up-to-date information over the phone. But, they also have a website, Mass211.org.

Housing Consumer Education Centers of Massachusetts

Talk to your Housing Consumer Education Centers about emergency rental assistance if you have low income. They may know of other places to apply for money. Visit the Regional Housing Network of Massachusetts website to find the Center in your area.

For actors, bartenders, restaurant workers and creators

The Committee for Public Counsel Services has a list of special nonprofit organizations that have funds you can apply for. Some of these funds may cover your rent. Scroll down the page and look under the heading 'Financial Assistance.'

United Way COVID-19 Fund

Learn more about getting money for rent from the United Way.

Mutual aid networks

Massachusetts Jobs with Justice lists mutual aid networks where you can ask for things you need and offer items or services. Someone may be able to help you with your rent. Look for your city or town on the webpage.

Other Help

Some cities and towns have money to help with rent. Learn how to use Massachusetts Housing Partnership’s Toolbox database to see if your city or town has money to help.

Some churches and non-profits like the Salvation Army may have money. Ask if they have money to help with rent.