Get Help with Your Security Deposit Through Section 8 and Other Programs

If you have a Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher, the biggest upfront cost of renting---your security deposit---may not have to come out of your pocket.

A new bill introduced in Congress, the Choice in Affordable Housing Act, would create a $500 million fund to help voucher holders across the country. Part of this money would cover security deposits for tenants and give landlords incentives to accept vouchers.

New York has already been working on this issue. In 2023, the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) opened its Section 8 waitlist for the first time since 2009, with over 600,000 applicants. Programs like this security deposit assistance could help new voucher holders get housing faster.

But what about outside New York? Many local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) run similar programs. If you're struggling with upfront costs, it's worth asking your PHA what help is available.

Here's how security deposit help works and where you can look for it.

How Security Deposit Assistance Works

Landlords usually ask for a security deposit before you can move in. This is a one-time payment (usually one or two months' rent) that covers damage or unpaid rent.

For voucher holders, this is often a huge barrier. Even with a subsidy, finding extra cash for a deposit can be hard. That's why some government programs and nonprofits help cover this cost.

These programs work in different ways:

Grants - You don't have to pay the money back.
Loans - You borrow the money and repay it over time.
Guarantees - A third party promises the landlord they will cover damages.

If you qualify, these programs can make it easier to rent without draining your savings.

The Choice in Affordable Housing Act

The Choice in Affordable Housing Act could make security deposit help more common nationwide. If passed, the bill would:

Give signing bonuses to landlords in low-poverty areas to accept voucher holders.
Provide funding for security deposits so tenants don't have to pay upfront.
Increase funding for landlord liaison positions at PHAs to improve relationships between renters and landlords.

Lawmakers say these changes will make landlords more willing to accept vouchers, expanding housing options for low-income renters.

This bill was first introduced in 2022 and reintroduced in 2023. If you support it, you can contact your representatives and ask them to push it forward.

Other Programs That Help with Security Deposits

Even if this bill hasn't passed yet, local programs already exist to help with security deposits. These programs vary by city and state, but here are some common sources:

1. Local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs)

Your PHA may offer security deposit assistance or know of other local programs. Some PHAs use Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHVs) or other funds to cover deposits.

You can find your local PHA by searching on Section 8 Search.

2. State and Local Government Programs

Some state housing agencies provide deposit help through rental assistance programs. These programs are usually meant for:

Low-income renters
People experiencing homelessness
Survivors of domestic violence
People with disabilities

For example, in California, the Emergency Rental Assistance Program sometimes covers security deposits. Other states have similar programs.

3. Nonprofits and Charities

Many nonprofits help with move-in costs. Some well-known organizations include:

The Salvation Army -- Offers rental and deposit assistance in some locations.
Catholic Charities -- Provides emergency financial help, including deposits.
United Way 211 -- Connects renters to local programs.

You can call 211 or visit 211.org to check what's available near you.

4. Local Community Action Agencies

Community Action Agencies (CAAs) run housing assistance programs using federal funds. These agencies often provide:

Security deposit help
Rental assistance
Utility bill aid

Find a CAA near you through the Community Action Partnership.

How to Apply for Security Deposit Help

If you need help with your deposit, here's what to do:

Contact your PHA -- Ask if they offer any deposit programs. You can search for PHAs at Section 8 Search.
Check with local housing agencies -- Look for state and city rental assistance programs.
Call 211 -- They can connect you to nonprofits that help with deposits.
Search for emergency grants or loans -- Some charities offer one-time financial help.

Each program has its own rules. Some may require:

Proof of income
A signed lease
Proof of housing instability

It's best to ask early, as funding can run out fast.

Struggling to Find Housing with a Voucher?

Even with security deposit help, finding housing with a Section 8 voucher can be hard. Many landlords refuse to accept vouchers, and competition is high.

If your Section 8 application was denied, check out this guide:
👉 Section 8 Application Denied? Here's What to Do

If you lost your voucher or missed a deadline, you might still have options:
👉 Get Another Chance at Housing

Are you a senior looking for affordable housing? You might qualify for Section 202 housing:
👉 Section 202 Housing for Seniors

Final Thoughts

Security deposits are a big obstacle for voucher holders, but help is available.

With bills like the Choice in Affordable Housing Act, more funding could be on the way. But even now, local PHAs, nonprofits, and government programs may offer deposit assistance.

The first step is to ask your PHA. If they don't offer help, check state programs and charities.

To find your PHA and other resources, use Section 8 Search.