Finding a place to live isn't always easy. Especially if you have bad credit, prior evictions, rental debt, or other challenges. Maybe you missed a few rent payments in the past, had a dispute with a landlord, or lost your job and couldn't keep up with bills. Whatever the reason, getting back on track with housing is possible.
There are programs out there designed specifically for renters who need a fresh start. Whether you need long-term affordable housing, short-term rental assistance, or even emergency shelter, there are options worth exploring.
Let's go over the best Second Chance Housing programs, and how you can apply.
Government Housing Programs That Don't Require Good Credit
If you're struggling to rent because of bad credit or past evictions, federal housing programs can be a great option. Many of these programs focus on income eligibility rather than credit scores, which can make them more accessible.
1. Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)
The Housing Choice Voucher Program, commonly known as Section 8, helps low-income renters by covering part of their rent in private housing. Many landlords who accept Section 8 don't require good credit, since the government guarantees a portion of the rent.
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Who qualifies? Low-income households (typically earning below 50% of the area median income).
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What about credit checks? Housing authorities may check for serious issues, but bad credit alone won't disqualify you.
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How to apply: Find your local Public Housing Agency (PHA) and check waiting lists using our Section 8 Search tool. It’s easy, and you can follow the step-by-step guide here. Be prepared for long waitlists.
If you're interested in how new HUD policies could impact Section 8 housing availability, check out this article.
2. Public Housing
Public Housing consists of government-owned apartments and homes rented out at below-market rates. These units are usually managed by local PHAs and offer affordable options for low-income renters.
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Who qualifies? Low-income individuals, families, seniors, and people with disabilities.
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Credit requirements? No minimum credit score is required for public housing. Rental history may be reviewed, but many housing authorities work with tenants who have past issues.
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How to apply: Visit your local Public Housing Agency to check availability.
3. HUD-Subsidized Private Apartments
HUD provides funding to private landlords who offer income-based rental units. This means you rent from a private landlord but still pay an affordable, income-adjusted rate.
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Who qualifies? Low-income renters.
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Credit requirements? Varies by landlord, but many accept tenants with low credit scores.
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How to apply: Use the HUD apartment search tool to find subsidized rentals near you.
4. State and Local Rental Assistance Programs
Many states and cities have their own rental assistance programs that provide short-term help with overdue rent, security deposits, or moving costs. Some also have long-term housing vouchers similar to Section 8.
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Who qualifies? It depends on the state, but programs often help low-income renters facing eviction or housing instability.
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How to apply: Search for "your state + rental assistance program" or check with local housing agencies.
Emergency Housing Options If You Need a Place Fast
If you need immediate housing due to eviction, job loss, or another crisis, consider emergency housing programs.
1. Rapid Re-Housing Programs
Rapid Re-Housing helps people who recently lost their homes by covering security deposits, first month's rent, and short-term rent payments.
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Who qualifies? People experiencing homelessness or at risk of eviction.
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How to apply: Find a local program through 211.org or your local housing authority.
2. Homeless Shelters & Transitional Housing
If you're already homeless or facing eviction, local shelters can provide a safe place to stay while you find permanent housing. Some shelters also offer transitional housing, which provides stable, low-cost living for several months while you rebuild your finances.
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Who qualifies? Individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
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How to find shelter: Call 211, check Homeless Shelter Directory, or visit a local social services office.
If you want to understand why homelessness has increased by 18%, this article explains the latest trends.
3. Emergency Rental Assistance
Some organizations offer one-time emergency grants to cover past-due rent or prevent eviction.
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Who qualifies? People facing immediate eviction due to financial hardship.
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Where to apply: Try organizations like:
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The Salvation Army
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Catholic Charities
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Modest Needs (small emergency grants)
Rebuilding Your Rental History & Credit
If your biggest challenge is bad credit or a past eviction, there are ways to improve your rental history and convince landlords to give you a second chance.
1. Find Second-Chance Landlords
Some landlords specialize in renting to tenants with bad credit or prior evictions. These "second-chance apartments" might have higher deposits or shorter lease terms, but they provide a path back into stable housing.
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Search "second chance apartments + [your city]"
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Try sites like SocialServe or Zillow Affordable Rentals
2. Look Into Rent Guarantor Programs
If landlords hesitate to approve your application, rent guarantor services (like TheGuarantors or Insurent) act as a co-signer, helping you get approved even with a low credit score.
3. Enroll in Tenant Education Programs
Some states offer tenant education classes that teach renters about financial management and landlord expectations. Completing these programs can improve your chances of being approved.
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Search for "tenant education program + your state"
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Examples: Rent Well (Oregon), Ready to Rent (various cities)
4. Use Rent Reporting Services to Build Credit
Some programs report your rent payments to credit bureaus, helping to raise your credit score over time.
Final Thoughts: You Have Options
If you're struggling to rent due to bad credit, past evictions, or rental debt, don't lose hope. Whether you need long-term affordable housing, immediate rental assistance, or a way to rebuild your rental history, help is available.
Start by:
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Checking federal programs like Section 8, public housing, and HUD-subsidized apartments
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Looking for state and local rental assistance programs
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Exploring emergency options like Rapid Re-Housing or shelters if you need immediate help
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Finding Second Chance Landlords or rent guarantor services
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Rebuilding credit and rental history to improve your chances in the future
Even if one program doesn't work out, there are other paths forward. Keep applying, keep looking, and don't give up: a second chance at housing is possible.
