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Facing housing instability or the threat of eviction can be overwhelming, but Utah rent relief options are available to help residents find stability. While the large-scale pandemic-era programs have concluded, a network of state, county, and non-profit organizations continues to provide crucial support. This includes emergency financial assistance, utility payment help, legal aid for tenants, and long-term housing solutions.
This resource provides a clear, actionable path to connect with these services. It outlines the most important first steps to secure housing and protect your family.
The Challenge of Housing Affordability in Utah
It is important to understand that the need for assistance is widespread. Utah is experiencing a significant housing affordability crisis, driven by rapid population growth and home prices that have outpaced income increases. The median home sales price in Utah is 27% higher than the national median. In Salt Lake City, a household income of at least $140,000 is needed to afford the median mortgage, far exceeding the city's median income of $92,000.
This systemic pressure means that many residents may face financial hardship, making access to support programs more critical than ever. This action plan is designed to help you navigate the available systems effectively.
For individuals and families in crisis, knowing where to begin is the most critical challenge. Utah's assistance landscape is not a collection of independent programs but a structured referral ecosystem designed to connect residents to help efficiently.
A Coordinated System for Assistance
State and federal agencies have established a clear pathway with a specific entry point that triages needs and connects people to local providers with available funding. This approach prevents the frustrating and time-consuming process of calling multiple agencies that may not be able to help. The most effective first step is to engage with this designated system.
Utah 211: Your Central Connection to Assistance
Utah 211 is the state's most comprehensive, free, and confidential information and referral service, supported by United Ways of Utah. It functions as the central hub for connecting residents to vital health, human, and community services. Its role as the primary starting point is consistently recommended by numerous government bodies, including the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Utah court system.
How to Access 211 The service is accessible in multiple ways to accommodate different needs:
The 211 Process Upon connection, a trained resource specialist confidentially assesses your situation, asking about household size, income, and the specific nature of the crisis (e.g., eviction notice, utility shut-off). Based on this information, the specialist provides a direct referral to the most appropriate local organizations that have currently available funding and services to meet those specific needs.
Why Start with 211? Engaging with 211 first is crucial because it maintains the state's most up-to-date database of program availability. Funding for emergency assistance can fluctuate, and programs may open or close on short notice. 211 tracks this in real-time, ensuring you are directed to agencies that can offer tangible help.
Community Action Agencies: Direct Support in Your County
Community Action Agencies (CAAs) are the local, on-the-ground non-profit organizations that administer many of Utah's most critical assistance programs. After contacting 211, you will most likely be referred to the CAA that serves your specific county or region. These agencies provide direct services, including case management, application assistance, and the distribution of financial aid.
Services Offered by CAAs The services offered by CAAs are extensive and designed to promote self-sufficiency. Key services include:
By working with a CAA case manager, families can develop a plan to overcome their immediate crisis and connect with other resources for long-term stability, such as workforce development or financial counseling. Because these agencies operate at the county level, they possess localized expertise and partnerships with local landlords and utility companies.
| County/Region Served | Agency Name | Phone Number | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Salt Lake, Tooele | Utah Community Action | (801) 359-2444 | utahca.org |
| Summit, Utah, Wasatch | Community Action Services and Food Bank | (801) 691-5238 | communityactionprovo.org |
| Weber | Ogden Weber Community Action Partnership (OWCAP) | (801) 399-9281 | owcap.org |
| Davis, Morgan | Open Doors | (801) 771-4642 | opendoorsutah.org |
| Cache, Rich, Box Elder | Bear River Association of Governments (BRAG) | (435) 752-7242 | brag.utah.gov |
| Washington | Five County Association of Governments | (435) 673-3548 | fivecountycap.org |
| Beaver, Garfield, Iron, Kane | Five County Association of Governments | (435) 867-8384 | fivecountycap.org |
| Carbon, Emery, Grand, San Juan | Southeastern Utah Association of Local Governments | (435) 613-0067 | seualg.utah.gov |
| Juab, Millard, Piute, Sanpete, Sevier, Wayne | Six County Association of Governments | (435) 896-9222 | sixcounty.com |
| Daggett, Duchesne, Uintah | Uintah Basin Association of Governments (UBAOG) | (435) 722-4518 | ubaog.org |
While statewide referral networks are the best starting point, it is also important to understand the specific financial assistance programs they may connect you with. These programs provide direct monetary support but operate with specific eligibility rules and funding limitations.
The Current Landscape: Life After the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERA)
It is critical to understand that the primary financial relief program established during the COVID-19 pandemic has ended. The federal Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) program stopped accepting new applications in Utah on February 5, 2023. This program was a temporary, large-scale response and was not designed to be a permanent source of aid.
With the conclusion of the ERA program, the focus of housing assistance has shifted back to more traditional, targeted programs. These ongoing services are designed to help families experiencing specific, short-term crises. Funding is more limited, and eligibility criteria are often stricter, but they remain a vital lifeline.
Department of Workforce Services (DWS) Emergency Assistance
The Utah Department of Workforce Services (DWS) administers an Emergency Assistance program designed to provide immediate, short-term financial help to families with children. The program's goal is to prevent homelessness or a utility shut-off by providing a one-time payment to resolve a crisis that is beyond the family's control.
Eligibility Criteria To be eligible, a household must meet several strict criteria:
Benefit Amounts The program can provide up to $450 for one month's rent, up to $700 for one month's mortgage payment, or up to $300 for utility payments. Applications are processed through local DWS offices.
The HEAT Program: A Lifeline for Utility Bills
For many low-income households, a high utility bill can prevent them from paying their full rent. The Home Energy Assistance Target (HEAT) program addresses this by providing direct financial assistance for energy costs, which helps stabilize a family's housing situation.
Key HEAT Services The program offers several key services:
Eligibility and Application Eligibility is based primarily on income, which must be at or below 150% of the federal poverty level. Priority is given to households with members who are elderly (age 60+), disabled, or have children under six. The program is administered locally by regional Community Action Agencies.
Applicants must provide documentation, including recent utility bills, proof of all household income, and Social Security cards for all household members. Applications can be submitted online, by mail, via drop-box at a CAA office, or through a scheduled phone appointment.
Support from Non-Profit and Faith-Based Organizations
Beyond government programs, a network of local non-profit and faith-based organizations offers emergency assistance. The availability of aid depends on their current funding levels.
Organizations that may provide limited financial assistance include:
The most effective way to identify which of these organizations currently have funding is to contact Utah 211.
While emergency programs address immediate crises, they do not solve the underlying issue of housing affordability. For many, long-term stability requires access to subsidized housing administered by local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs).
Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) and Public Housing
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) funds two major long-term rental assistance programs in Utah.
Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program (Section 8) This is the federal government's largest program for assisting low-income families. Eligible households receive a voucher to pay for a portion of their rent in the private market. The tenant typically pays 30-40% of their income towards rent, and the PHA pays the rest directly to the landlord.
Public Housing Program Under this program, the local PHA owns and manages specific apartment complexes. Eligible low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities can rent these units and pay approximately 30% of their income for rent.
Eligibility for Long-Term Programs Eligibility for both programs is determined by the local PHA based on annual gross income, family size, and U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status. Income limits are typically set at 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for the HCV program and 80% for Public Housing. All adult household members must also pass a criminal background check.
Navigating Housing Authority Waiting Lists
The most significant challenge in accessing these programs is the immense demand. Due to chronic underfunding and a severe shortage of affordable housing, waiting lists are exceptionally long, often lasting for several years. Consequently, these waiting lists are frequently closed to new applicants.
Section 8 and Public Housing are not viable solutions for an immediate crisis. They should be viewed as a long-term planning tool. It is essential for applicants to keep their contact information current with every PHA they have applied to, as notifications are sent by mail.
| Housing Authority | Program | Current Waiting List Status | Official Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing Authority of the City of Ogden | Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) | Open for application | ogdenhousingauth.com |
| Housing Authority of the City of Ogden | Public Housing | Open for application | ogdenhousingauth.com |
| Housing Authority of the County of Salt Lake | Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) | Waiting list is currently closed. | haslcutah.org |
| Housing Authority of Utah County | All Programs | Waiting lists are currently closed. | housinguc.org |
| Housing Authority of the City of Provo | All Programs | Open for application; gives priority to Provo residents. | urhousing.org |
| St. George Housing Authority | Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) | Waiting list is generally closed; notice will be posted when open. | stgeorgehousingauthority.org |
| Davis Community Housing Authority | Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) | Waiting list is currently closed. | daviscommunityhousing.com |
For many Utahns, the search for rent relief is driven by the immediate threat of eviction. Understanding tenant rights and accessing legal aid is a critical form of housing assistance.
The Utah Eviction Process: What to Expect
An eviction is a formal court process; a landlord cannot legally remove a tenant without a court order. It is illegal for a landlord to change the locks, shut off utilities, or remove a tenant's belongings without first obtaining an "Order of Restitution" from a judge.
Steps in a Formal Eviction
An eviction filing creates a permanent public court record that is visible to future landlords, which can make it extremely difficult to find housing for years.
Key Tenant Rights in Utah
While Utah's laws often favor landlords, tenants are protected by several key statutes.
Accessing Free Legal Aid and Mediation
Given the complexity of the eviction process, securing legal representation is a critical step.
Legal Aid Organizations
Landlord-Tenant Mediation Mediation is a less adversarial alternative to court where a neutral third party helps the tenant and landlord try to reach a solution, such as a payment plan. Key providers include Utah Community Action and Utah Dispute Resolution.
While statewide resources provide a starting point, much of the direct assistance is administered at the local level.
Salt Lake County
Utah County
Davis County
Weber County
Washington County
Resources in Other Utah Regions
For residents in other parts of the state, the primary point of contact is the regional Community Action Agency or Association of Governments (AOG) that serves their area. The directory in the first section provides contact information for these agencies.
Several resources are tailored to meet the unique housing needs of specific populations in Utah.
Assistance for Veterans
Veterans facing housing instability have access to dedicated programs.
Resources for Individuals with Disabilities
Utahns with disabilities are protected under the Fair Housing Act.
Help for Survivors of Domestic Violence
Survivors of domestic violence often face immediate housing crises.
Support for Refugees and New Americans
Targeted support is available to help refugees and other new Americans achieve self-sufficiency.
Navigating the landscape of housing assistance in Utah can feel complex, but a structured system of support is in place. The key to successfully accessing these resources is to take proactive and informed steps.
The most critical actions for any family facing housing instability are:
While the challenge of housing affordability in Utah is significant, this network of agencies is dedicated to helping residents. By taking these decisive steps, Utahns can connect with the programs and people who can provide the relief needed to secure their housing and build a more stable future.
The federally-funded statewide Emergency Rental Assistance Program stopped accepting applications in February 2023 and is not expected to reopen. All available funds have been allocated. Renters should now focus on applying for assistance through local community action agencies and county housing authorities for any available support.
Residents in rural or smaller counties should contact their local Community Action Agency or call 2-1-1. These organizations serve all areas of the state and can connect you with regional housing programs, faith-based assistance, and other local charities that may offer limited emergency rental funds.
Most current rental assistance programs focus on preventing immediate eviction by paying for past-due rent. While some programs historically offered future rent payments, this is now very rare due to limited funding. Always clarify the specifics with the agency you are applying to for the most accurate information.
Utah 2-1-1, a service by United Way, acts as a central information hub. By calling or visiting their website, you can get connected to the most current information on local rent relief programs, utility assistance, and other social services in your specific zip code, saving you significant time.
While most programs are based on income, some agencies have specific resources or case managers dedicated to assisting seniors and individuals with disabilities. Be sure to mention your circumstances when contacting your local Area Agency on Aging or Community Action Agency to access specialized support services.
Yes, some local programs, often categorized under homeless prevention or rapid re-housing, can assist with security deposits or first month's rent. These funds are often limited and tied to specific eligibility, such as fleeing domestic violence or being literally homeless. Contact your local housing authority for details.
Eligibility varies by program and funding source. While many federally funded programs require a specific immigration status, some local, state, or privately funded charitable programs do not. It is essential to check the requirements of the specific organization you are applying to for assistance.
The timeline for local Utah rent relief can vary significantly, from a few weeks to several months, depending on the agency's funding, staffing, and the number of applications they have received. It is not an immediate process, so you should apply as soon as you anticipate a problem.
If your application is denied, first ask the agency for the specific reason in writing. You may have the right to appeal the decision. Additionally, immediately seek help from Utah Legal Services to understand your rights as a tenant and explore potential defenses against eviction.
Generally, receiving other forms of public assistance like SNAP (food stamps) or unemployment benefits does not disqualify you from receiving Utah rent relief. In fact, it often helps demonstrate your financial need. Income from these sources is typically counted when determining if you meet program eligibility limits.
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