Housing Grants For Felons

As a felon, you’re likely wondering whether you can obtain housing grants. Within this guide, you’ll learn more about the housing grants for convicted felons.

Federal and state governments often offer grants to people in need. However, some people cannot access and use these grants due to things they’ve done in the past. Today, housing is a hotly debated subject since rent and house prices are on the rise and wages are stagnant.

As a result, millions of Americans need assistance paying for housing. In addition to this, America needs access to more affordable housing. It is pertinent for all residents to find suitable housing in safe, convenient locations.

Housing Grants For Felons

Recommended: Felon Friendly Apartments

Checking With HUD

First and foremost, you’ll want to check with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. The cabinet department is a vital part of the federal government. The agency was established as a cabinet department in 1965 and incorporated into law thanks to President Lyndon Johnson’s Great Society program.

In general, HUD helps people find and pay for suitable housing in their area. Felons should start by talking to the local HUD agency in their area. When doing so, you’ll be able to learn more about the available rental houses for individuals in need.

Programs offered through HUD are usually different than Section 8 housing. Therefore, you’ll need to learn more about your options. Also, don’t forget that the federal government intends these programs to be short-term solutions.

Therefore, it expects residents to eventually obtain suitable employment after Section 8 benefits and move to new residences. Nevertheless, it is a good starting point for people who are desperate to find affordable housing.

The only downside is that HUD’s programs are immensely popular across the country. Therefore, you’re likely going to need to add your name to a waiting list. Depending on the current demand, there is a risk that you’ll need to wait 12 months before you can obtain housing through these programs.

Ultimately, it is wise to speak to a HUD representative in your area as soon as possible. Otherwise, more people are going to jump in line ahead of you.

Also, don’t forget that you will need to qualify for these programs. To do that, your income has to be well below the federal poverty limit. If you meet these qualifications, you may receive a discounted price.

Explore Craigslist

You likely aren’t going to find housing assistance for felons on Craigslist. It is wise to avoid property managers and property management firms because they often do not help felons. Instead, you’ll need to find rentals that are managed by individuals.

Although a property management company may ignore applications from felons, individuals may not. Working with a small landlord increases the likelihood that they’ll skip the background check. If they do, there is a better chance that you’ll get the rental. Still, it is a good idea to tell the landlord more about your history.

Being honest can make a huge difference in the long run. Be open with the landlord. However, you can also remain silent. If they do not ask and do not request a background check, it might be best to say nothing. If they ask, it is wise, to be honest.

Being caught lying will prevent you from getting the position. Craigslist won’t help you obtain rental assistance, but it can help you find affordable rentals in your area. Plus, you’ll be able to work with small landlords that might be happy to rent to ex-felons.

Friends & Housing Assistance For Felons

Are you having difficulty finding a suitable rental in your city? Unfortunately, you may need to seek out alternatives. Sadly, Section 8 application timeframe and governmental grants take a long time. You’ll have to wait weeks or months to get assistance. Most people do not have time to wait. If you fit into this category, you’ll need to obtain assistance as soon as possible.

One of the best ways to do that is by speaking with friends and family members. You might have a few friends or family members who are willing to help. Talk to these individuals and see what they ask. With a little luck, they’ll be happy to help.

Again, you have to understand that this is going to be a temporary solution. You don’t want to depend on your friends forever. Instead, you’ll want to try crashing on their couch or sofa for a few weeks. It is a good idea to help them as much as possible too.

For instance, you can try giving them some money for groceries or help clean their house. Be sure to make yourself useful so you don’t overstay your welcome.

Once you’ve moved in, it is a good idea to begin searching for employment so you can eventually move out and get your own apartment. Nevertheless, this is a good option since most friends will be happy to help.

Talk To Your Parole Officer

If you’ve recently been released, you’ll likely find yourself working with a parole officer. Remember that this individual is there to help you. It is their responsibility to assist you and help you integrate into society. If you’re experiencing any issues, it would be wise to consult with your parole officer.

There is a good chance that they’ll be able to help. In all likelihood, they’ll have relationships with people in your area. Therefore, they can likely help you find a place to stay.

Parole officers often have information about felon-friendly rentals in their areas. Plus, they can help you sign up for local reentry programs. Talk to your parole officer and tell them what you’re going through. They’ll be happy to help.

If they can’t help, they may know someone who can. Plus, they’ll be able to help you faster than agencies offering housing grants for convicted felons.

Financial Programs For Those In Need

When you need access to a good rental, you’ll want to find one as quickly as possible. Otherwise, you might find yourself on the street.

You don’t want this to happen. Instead, you should take advantage of the federal programs available to you. Some of them will be explored in greater depth below.

(1) Temporary Assistance For Needy Families

First and foremost, you’ll want to learn more about this program. As the name implies, the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families grant can help you pay for a suitable rental in your area. The program provided monthly cash assistance to individuals in need.

Thankfully, it includes felons. In addition to this, the grant offers financial assistance for many necessities, including utilities, food, medication, and more. The only downside is that this program isn’t suitable for all felons. You have to provide for a minor child to qualify. If you don’t, you won’t be able to enroll in this program.

You’ll also need to meet the income requirements and be an American citizen or legal alien. Depending on where you live, you may need to partake in a work program. Be sure to check with locals in your state so you can find out what works for you.

(2) Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program

Are you having difficulty paying your utility bills? If so, you should try getting assistance. In some cases, felons might be able to acquire low-income home energy assistance programs.

Once you’ve qualified for the program, the grant will cover one heating bill each year. The money will be given directly to the energy company you’re working with.

Just remember that you’ll need to re-apply each year. Again, you’ll need to meet the income requirements before signing up. If you receive a notice that your energy is going to be shut off, this program can help.

(3) Lifeline

Once you’ve found suitable housing, you may want to sign up for a cellphone. Having a phone when you go out can give you peace of mind. If something happens, you’ll be able to use the phone to get assistance. With that being said, you should learn more about the Lifeline program.

It can help you pay for your phone bill. Depending on where you live, you may get a free phone. Alternatively, you may receive a discount on your monthly bill. If you need assistance, learn more about this program.

(4) SNAP

Don’t forget the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP. The program is a good choice for many since it can help you obtain food.

If you have little income and need access to food, the SNAP grant can help. Once you’ve enrolled in the program, you’ll receive money each month so you can purchase food.

The benefits will be added to your electronic debit card so you can use it at your local grocery stores. To qualify, you must have little income and you need to be an American citizen or legal alien.

Summary

Getting housing can be difficult. It is even harder for current felons. Nevertheless, you can find assistance. The federal government offers many grants that can help.

If you’re looking for affordable housing, you should start by talking to your parole officer or a HUD representative in your area.