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Kansas Rent relief is a critical need for many residents facing financial hardship. If you're searching for help paying rent or utilities in Kansas, understanding the current landscape of assistance programs is essential. While a major recent program has ended, other resources are available to provide support.
The most widely known recent program, the Kansas Emergency Rental Assistance (KERA) program, was funded by federal COVID-19 relief packages. It provided significant aid, distributing over $290 million to help more than 82,000 Kansans and thousands of housing providers avoid evictions and utility shutoffs during the pandemic. However, this program has exhausted its funds and is now closed. This article focuses on the currently active programs and resources available for Kansas rent relief and housing assistance today.
It is important to know that the Kansas Emergency Rental Assistance (KERA) program is closed. The online portal is no longer accepting new applications.
KERA was specifically designed to offer temporary rent, utility, and internet assistance to households that experienced financial difficulties due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The program required a joint application process involving both the tenant and the landlord. Its closure means that Kansans seeking aid need to explore alternative, ongoing assistance programs.
For those seeking historical information about the closed KERA program, the following official resources are available:
While KERA has ended, the need for support continues. Fortunately, several other avenues for Kansas housing assistance remain active.
Even with KERA closed, several state and federal programs offer ongoing rental assistance in Kansas. Understanding how these programs work and how to apply is key.
Tenant Based Rental Assistance (TBRA)
Kansas Rent relief may be available through the Tenant Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) program. This program is funded by the federal HOME Investment Partnerships Program and administered in Kansas by the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation (KHRC). TBRA is designed to help eligible households afford housing costs by providing assistance with rental payments, security deposits, and sometimes utility deposits. Payments are often made directly to the landlord on behalf of the tenant.
Eligibility for TBRA is primarily based on household income, often requiring income below a certain percentage of the Area Median Income (AMI), such as 60% or 80%, though specific limits vary by county and program funding. Some TBRA funds may be targeted specifically to assist individuals or families experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness. You can check the current income limits for your county here:
Crucially, you do not apply directly to KHRC for TBRA assistance. Instead, you must apply through specific local agencies or non-profits designated as TBRA service providers for your county. Typically, only the tenant needs to complete the application.
To find the agency responsible for administering TBRA funds in your area, use these KHRC resources:
Contacting the correct local agency is the essential first step to accessing TBRA support.
TBRA Program Summary
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Tenant Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) |
| Assistance Provided | Rental subsidies, Security Deposits, Utility Deposits |
| Key Eligibility | Income-based (Varies by county - check limits), Kansas resident |
| How to Apply | Contact the designated local service provider for your county (NOT KHRC directly) |
| Find Your Provider | Use KHRC Community Solutions Map or TBRA provider list (Links provided above) |
HUD Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)
Another major source for long-term Kansas rent relief is the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, commonly known as Section 8. This federal program is managed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). It assists very low-income families, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities in affording safe and decent housing within the private rental market.
With a Housing Choice Voucher, participants can choose their own eligible rental housing, such as an apartment, townhouse, or single-family home. The participant typically pays about 30% of their adjusted monthly income towards rent and utilities, and the voucher subsidy covers the remaining amount, paid directly to the landlord.
Eligibility depends on several factors, including annual gross income (generally below 50% of the Area Median Income, with 75% of vouchers reserved for those below 30% AMI), family size, and U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status. The head of household must have a valid Social Security number. Income limits vary by location and can be confirmed through HUD or the local administering agency.
Applications for Section 8 vouchers must be submitted through your local Public Housing Authority (PHA). It's important to be aware that demand for vouchers is extremely high across the country, often resulting in long waiting lists. PHAs may even close their waiting lists when they have more applicants than they can assist in the foreseeable future. Some PHAs may also use local preferences to prioritize certain applicants based on community needs.
To apply, you first need to identify and contact the PHA that serves your specific city or county in Kansas. Use this HUD resource to find their contact information:
While Section 8 can provide significant long-term stability, the application process and potential wait times mean it is often not an immediate solution for emergency situations.
Other HUD-Supported Options
Beyond the Housing Choice Voucher program, HUD supports other forms of affordable housing in Kansas:
These options broaden the scope of potential housing assistance available through federal programs.
Navigating the various programs can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, central resources exist to help connect you with local assistance providers in Kansas.
Dial 211 or Visit 211Kansas.org
Often the best first step when seeking Kansas rent relief or other social services is to contact 211 Kansas. This free, confidential service, operated by United Way organizations, acts as an information and referral hub connecting Kansans to thousands of health and human service programs statewide. They maintain a comprehensive database of resources for needs including:
In 2024, rent and utility assistance were among the most frequent requests received by 211 Kansas, highlighting its role in addressing these critical needs. Trained specialists can help assess your situation and refer you to appropriate local agencies and programs that may be able to help.
You can connect with 211 Kansas in several ways:
Community Action Agencies (CAAs)
Community Action Agencies are local non-profit organizations dedicated to fighting poverty and supporting low-income Kansans. They often receive funding through state and federal sources, like the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) administered by KHRC, to provide a variety of services.
These services can vary by agency but frequently include:
Contacting your local CAA can be an efficient way to learn about multiple assistance programs available in your area. You can find the CAA serving your county through these resources:
Local Charities and Non-Profits
Numerous local charities, faith-based organizations (like Catholic Charities, Salvation Army, local churches), and community non-profits across Kansas may offer limited emergency financial assistance. This help can sometimes be applied towards past-due rent or utility bills.
Keep in mind that assistance from these sources is often:
Because funding and program availability can change frequently, calling 211 Kansas is typically the most reliable way to find out which local charities currently have emergency rent or utility assistance funds available. You can also contact well-known local organizations directly to inquire about their services.
Beyond direct rent payment assistance, other resources can help Kansas renters maintain housing stability.
Finding Kansas rent relief requires navigating the available resources now that the KERA program has closed. The primary ongoing avenues for substantial assistance include:
Remember to contact local agencies directly to verify your eligibility based on current income limits and specific program requirements. Persistence may be needed, but these programs exist to help Kansans maintain stable housing. Don't hesitate to also explore related support like LIHEAP for utility bills, legal aid if facing eviction, and housing counseling for broader financial guidance.
No, the Kansas Emergency Rental Assistance (KERA) program, which provided pandemic-related aid, has exhausted its funds and is now closed. It is no longer accepting new applications.
Yes, even though KERA is closed, other programs like Tenant Based Rental Assistance (TBRA), HUD's Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8), and various local community and charitable resources still offer rent help in Kansas.
The best way is to contact 211 Kansas (by dialing 2-1-1 or visiting 211kansas.org) or reach out to your local Community Action Agency. They can assess your situation and refer you to programs with eligibility requirements you may meet.
Contacting 211 Kansas is the recommended first step for immediate needs. Their specialists can quickly connect you with emergency shelters, local charities, or other agencies that might offer rapid assistance based on current funding availability.
No, you do not apply directly to the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation (KHRC) for TBRA. You must apply through specific local agencies designated as TBRA service providers for your county.
The Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) program provides a subsidy paid directly to your landlord. You typically pay about 30% of your adjusted income towards rent and utilities, and the voucher covers the rest, up to a certain limit.
Yes, demand for Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) is very high, and many Public Housing Authorities in Kansas have long waiting lists. Some waiting lists may even be closed temporarily due to the high number of applicants.
Yes, the Tenant Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) program can often help with security and utility deposits in addition to rent. Some local charities or community programs may also offer limited assistance for deposits.
While specific requirements vary by program, you will generally need proof of identity (like a photo ID), proof of income (pay stubs, benefit letters), a copy of your lease agreement, and often documentation of your hardship or need (like an eviction notice or past-due utility bill).
Yes, if you are facing eviction, Kansas Legal Services may offer free or low-cost legal assistance to help you understand your rights and navigate the process. You can also contact 211 or a HUD-approved housing counselor for guidance.
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