A security deposit can make it difficult to move into a new rental, especially when you are already dealing with limited income, an unexpected move, or a housing emergency. In some areas, assistance programs may help eligible renters cover part or all of a required security deposit.
Security deposit assistance can come from local housing agencies, government-funded programs, nonprofits, community organizations, and other housing support services. HUD's HOME program allows participating state and local governments to use certain funds for security deposit assistance, including grants or loans, depending on local program rules.
Who May Qualify for Rental Security Deposit Assistance?
Eligibility depends on the specific program, but assistance may be available to:
- Low-income individuals and families
- People who are homeless or at risk of homelessness
- Renters who are moving because of an emergency
- Families with children who need stable housing
- People with disabilities
- Older adults with limited income
- Survivors who need to relocate for safety
- Veterans who meet program requirements
- People transitioning from shelters or temporary housing
- Households that meet local income and housing requirements
Some programs may also require proof of a rental offer, a signed lease, a landlord willing to participate, or documentation showing that the household cannot afford the deposit.
Check What You May Qualify For
A free eligibility check can help identify assistance options based on your income, housing situation, and other circumstances.
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Programs vary based on income, location, housing situation, and other eligibility requirements.
Types of Rental Security Deposit Assistance
Government-Funded Housing Assistance
Some state and local housing programs use federal funding to provide security deposit assistance. HUD's HOME Tenant-Based Rental Assistance programs can include security deposit grants or loans for eligible households, although availability and requirements are determined locally.
Emergency Housing Assistance
People who are homeless or at immediate risk of losing housing may be able to access housing stabilization services. Depending on the local program, assistance can include security deposits, utility deposits, moving costs, and other housing-related expenses.
Public Housing Agency Programs
Local Public Housing Agencies may offer housing-related services for eligible households. Some HUD programs have permitted security deposit assistance and other move-in support for participating families.
Nonprofit and Community Assistance
Local nonprofits, charities, community organizations, and housing service providers may offer help with deposits or connect renters with programs that can assist with move-in expenses.
Security Deposit and Utility Deposit Assistance
Some housing assistance programs may help with both the security deposit and utility deposits needed to move into a home. HUD's HOME program specifically allows participating jurisdictions to provide utility deposit assistance alongside tenant-based rental assistance.
Housing Search and Move-In Support
Certain programs provide more than financial assistance. Services may include help finding a rental, completing applications, transportation, landlord communication, moving expenses, and other costs connected with obtaining housing.
What If You Cannot Find a Security Deposit Program?
Not every community has a dedicated security deposit assistance program, and available funding can be limited. If you cannot find direct assistance, consider asking the landlord whether the deposit can be paid in installments or whether another payment arrangement is available. United Way 211 recommends contacting your landlord or property manager because payment options may be available that you are not aware of.
You can also contact local housing agencies, nonprofit organizations, community action agencies, and 211 to ask about other housing resources.
How to Find Rental Security Deposit Assistance
- Determine how much you need. Find out the exact security deposit, first month's rent, application fees, utility deposits, and other move-in costs.
- Get proof of the rental offer. Some programs may require a lease, landlord letter, or other documentation showing that you have a unit available.
- Check your local housing agency. Contact your Public Housing Agency to ask about available rental and move-in assistance.
- Contact 211. In the United States, 211 can connect people with local housing and financial assistance resources.
- Search for homelessness prevention programs. If you are homeless or at risk of homelessness, ask about programs that provide housing stabilization and relocation assistance.
- Look for HOME-funded programs. State and local governments may use HOME funds for security deposit assistance where an eligible local program is available.
- Ask nonprofits about move-in assistance. Some organizations may have limited funds for deposits, moving costs, or other housing expenses.
- Ask your landlord about payment options. A landlord may allow the deposit to be paid in installments or may have another arrangement.
- Prepare your documents. Keep identification, income information, benefit statements, lease documents, landlord information, and proof of housing need available.
- Apply early. Assistance funds may be limited, and some programs may have waiting lists or specific application periods.