Mississippi Rent Relief: A Current Status on Programs and Available Financial Aid

For Mississippi residents facing housing instability, finding reliable information on financial support is a critical first step. While the emergency Mississippi rent relief program established during the pandemic is no longer accepting applications, a robust network of assistance programs remains available. This network includes federal, state, and community-based options that provide both long-term stability and immediate crisis relief.

The landscape of housing aid can be complex, involving different agencies and eligibility requirements. The purpose here is to provide a clear and direct path to understanding these resources. We will cover long-term rental subsidies, short-term grants for preventing eviction, and emergency funds from community organizations. Navigating this system begins with identifying the type of help needed and the correct agency to contact.

Program Overview

The various programs available to Mississippians are designed to address different levels of need. Some, like the federal Housing Choice Voucher program, offer sustained support to make housing affordable over the long term for low-income families. Others, such as the state-administered Community Services Block Grant, provide short-term financial aid to help households overcome a temporary crisis and avoid homelessness. Understanding the function of each program is essential for a successful application.

Mississippi Rental Assistance Programs at a Glance

The Status of the Rental Assistance for Mississippians Program (RAMP)

To eliminate confusion for residents seeking aid, it is important to clarify the status of the Rental Assistance for Mississippians Program (RAMP). As directed by the Governor of Mississippi, the RAMP program is no longer accepting new applications or processing new recertifications. This program was a specific, pandemic-era measure funded by the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021. It was established to assist households that had difficulty making rent and utility payments due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

For individuals who submitted an application before the program's closure, the official guidance states that these existing applications will continue to be processed. However, the processing and payment of these pending applications are explicitly subject to the availability of the remaining program funds.

The decision to close the RAMP application portal in August 2022 made Mississippi one of the first states to voluntarily end its participation in the federal emergency rental assistance initiative. The stated objective was to encourage a return to the workforce. While the RAMP program has concluded for new applicants, the underlying need for housing assistance continues. The remainder of this report focuses exclusively on the active, ongoing programs that have replaced RAMP as the primary sources of rental support.

Federally-Funded Housing Support: Long-Term Stability

The most significant sources of rental assistance are federal programs managed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). These programs are designed to provide long-term housing stability for the state's most vulnerable residents, including low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. A crucial aspect of these programs is their decentralized administration; HUD provides the funding, but local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) across Mississippi handle management and applications.

3.1 The Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8)

The Housing Choice Voucher Program, widely known as Section 8, is the federal government's primary program for assisting very low-income families. It helps them afford decent, safe, and sanitary housing in the private market. The program provides a rental subsidy, or voucher, directly to a private landlord on behalf of the family.

This structure allows families to choose their own housing, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments, as long as the unit meets program requirements. A family is generally required to pay approximately 30% of its adjusted gross income toward rent and utilities. The voucher covers the remaining portion of the rent up to a locally defined payment standard.

Eligibility is determined by the local PHA based on a household's total annual gross income and family size. In Mississippi, public housing is limited to low-income families and individuals. A PHA determines eligibility based on annual gross income, whether an applicant qualifies as elderly, a person with disabilities, or as a family, and U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status.

3.2 Public Housing Assistance

Distinct from the voucher program, Public Housing provides direct rental housing for eligible low-income families, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. In this program, the local PHA owns and operates the housing developments, acting as the landlord. HUD provides federal aid to these PHAs to manage the housing for low-income residents at rents they can afford.

The properties can range from scattered single-family houses to high-rise apartment buildings. The eligibility requirements for Public Housing are very similar to those for the Housing Choice Voucher program and are also determined by the local PHA. The determination is based on annual gross income, qualification as elderly, a person with disabilities, or a family, and U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status.

3.3 Locating and Contacting Your Local Public Housing Authority (PHA)

Because all applications for Section 8 vouchers and Public Housing must go through local agencies, the most important step is to identify and contact your designated PHA. There is no central state or federal application portal. Each PHA maintains its own application process and, often, its own waiting list.

To find the correct PHA for a specific county or region, Mississippi residents can use the resources provided by HUD. A comprehensive list of PHA contacts in Mississippi is available on the HUD website. For direct assistance, HUD provides a toll-free number: (800) 955-2232. Contacting the correct local PHA is the mandatory first step to begin the application process.

State-Administered Programs for Short-Term Financial Relief

Beyond long-term federal subsidies, Mississippi administers several programs designed to provide more immediate, short-term financial relief. These programs are typically funded by federal block grants and are managed by the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) and its network of local partners. They serve as a crucial safety net for families needing temporary help to pay rent, cover utility bills, or meet other basic needs.

4.1 Community Services Block Grant (CSBG)

The Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) is a federally funded program that provides resources to local agencies to address the causes of poverty. One of the core services supported by CSBG funds is short-term mortgage or rental assistance, aimed at preventing eviction and stabilizing housing for low-income individuals.

The program is flexible, allowing local partners, known as Community Action Agencies (CAAs), to tailor services to meet the specific needs of their area. These services can also include assistance with employment, education, and nutrition.

CSBG Eligibility

Eligibility for CSBG assistance is primarily based on household income. Assistance is available to individuals and families whose income is at or below 125% of the current Federal Poverty Guidelines. The income limits vary by the number of people in the household. For example, a single-person household must have an annual income at or below $18,225 to qualify, while a four-person household must be at or below $37,500.

4.2 Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program is designed to help very low-income families with children achieve economic self-sufficiency. Administered by MDHS, TANF provides direct cash assistance to qualifying families to help them meet basic needs.

While not exclusively a rental assistance program, the monthly cash benefits can be used for any essential household expense, including rent or utility payments. This makes it a vital resource for families on the brink of homelessness.

TANF Eligibility

The eligibility criteria for TANF are more stringent than for CSBG. A family must meet several key requirements:

• Have at least one child under the age of 18 living in the home.
• Meet strict gross monthly income limits, which are significantly lower than the poverty line. For instance, a family of three must have a gross monthly income at or below $1,074.
• Possess no more than $2,000 in countable resources, such as cash or property, excluding a primary home and one vehicle.
• Comply with program requirements, which typically include participation in the TANF Work Program (TWP) to build job skills and find employment.

The program provides benefits for a maximum of 60 months over a recipient's lifetime, reinforcing its purpose as a temporary support system.

The Application Process for State Assistance (CSBG & TANF)

Applying for state-administered assistance through the Mississippi Department of Human Services involves a multi-step process. The system is designed to first screen for eligibility online and then verify information through direct contact with a local agency or caseworker. Being prepared for each stage can significantly streamline the process.

5.1 Step 1: The Initial Application via Access MS

The first step for most applicants is to submit a pre-application through the state's online portal, often referred to as Access MS or Virtual ROMA. This initial screening collects basic household information to determine potential eligibility. For rental assistance through CSBG, applicants should mark "Community Services" on the list of available programs. This online submission is then forwarded to the appropriate local office for review.

5.2 Step 2: Gathering Your Essential Documents

After submitting the pre-application, the next phase is gathering the documents required for verification. Both CSBG and TANF programs require comprehensive documentation. Being prepared with these documents is essential for the in-person appointment.

A typical checklist includes:

• Proof of Identity: A valid, government-issued photo ID for all adult household members (e.g., driver's license, state ID, passport).
• Proof of Residency: Documents showing a current Mississippi address (e.g., lease agreement, recent utility bills, mortgage documents).
• Proof of Household Composition: Social Security cards for every member of the household. Birth or marriage certificates may also be needed.
• Proof of Income: Documentation for all sources of household income (e.g., recent paycheck stubs, W-2 form, tax returns, or benefit award letters).
• Proof of Expenses: Verification of housing costs (e.g., current rent receipts, mortgage statements, or a statement from HUD).

5.3 Step 3: The In-Person Appointment and Interview

Once the online application is routed, a staff member from the local CAA (for CSBG) or an MDHS caseworker (for TANF) will contact the applicant to schedule an appointment. This meeting is where the full application is completed and all gathered documents are submitted for verification.

For households with priority status—such as those with elderly or disabled members or a child under five—this appointment should be scheduled within 30 business days of the initial application. It is essential to attend this scheduled appointment and bring all required paperwork.

5.4 Step 4: Receiving a Decision

After the application and all supporting documents have been reviewed, the agency will make a final eligibility determination. Applicants will receive an official notice by mail stating whether their application was approved or denied. By law, a decision must be rendered no later than 30 calendar days from the date the complete application was received by MDHS. If approved for CSBG, the CAA will typically make a payment directly to the landlord or utility company.

Localized and Community-Based Rental Assistance

While federal and state programs provide the foundational structure for housing aid, a significant amount of immediate support is delivered by local government and non-profit organizations. These community-based resources are often more flexible and can provide emergency assistance to residents who may not qualify for larger programs or who are facing an imminent crisis.

6.1 The Critical Role of Community Action Agencies (CAAs)

Community Action Agencies are the essential local partners for administering the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG). These 17 non-profit and public organizations are spread across the state and are dedicated to helping low-income Mississippians achieve self-sufficiency.

Beyond distributing CSBG funds, they often provide other services, including job training, income management counseling, and emergency support. Finding the correct CAA for a specific county is the first step. The Mississippi Association of Community Action Agencies (MACAA) provides a directory, and the MDHS Division of Community Services can be reached at 1-800-421-0762 for assistance.

6.2 Support from Statewide and National Non-Profits

Several national non-profit organizations with a strong presence in Mississippi offer emergency rental and utility assistance.

• The Salvation Army: With locations throughout the state, The Salvation Army is a primary source of emergency financial assistance for families struggling to pay basic bills. Their programs are designed to prevent homelessness by providing funds for rent, utilities, and other essential needs. Assistance is typically based on an in-person appointment, and residents should call their local office to inquire about fund availability.
• Catholic Charities: This organization assists families who are normally self-sufficient but have experienced a temporary setback, such as a reduction in work hours or an unexpected major expense. They may assist with a portion of a monthly rent or utility bill. Catholic Charities serves communities across the nation, working to provide safe and affordable housing options.

6.3 City-Specific Resources and Programs

Rental assistance is often hyper-localized, with specific programs dedicated to major population centers. Residents should explore the resources available in their immediate area.

6.3.1 Jackson Metro Area

• City of Jackson Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG): The city's Office of Housing and Community Development administers federal ESG funds to local non-profits to prevent homelessness and rapidly re-house individuals and families.
• Stewpot Community Services: Stewpot offers a housing assistance program for people in the Jackson area at risk of becoming homeless. Contact their housing assistance office directly at (601) 949-9262.
• Grace House: This organization provides rental and utility assistance through its ESG program for individuals and families who are homeless or in danger of homelessness and have an income below 30% of the area median income.

6.3.2 Gulf Coast (Gulfport & Biloxi)

• South Mississippi Housing Authority: This agency offers an Emergency Housing Voucher Program for individuals who are homeless, at risk of homelessness, or fleeing domestic violence. To apply, residents must contact a Continuum of Care provider like the Open Doors Homeless Coalition at (228) 604-8010.
• Open Doors Homeless Coalition: This organization provides homelessness prevention services, which may include time-limited rental subsidies. They can be reached via their Coordinated Entry line at (228) 604-2048.
• Mercy Housing and Human Development (MHHD): MHHD offers a Hardship Assistance Grant of up to $500 for residents who have a job or are on Social Security but need "gap" assistance to cover rent. Strict income limits apply.

6.3.3 DeSoto County (Southaven & Horn Lake)

• Samaritans of Horn Lake and Southaven: This group offers assistance in the form of vouchers for rent, utilities, and medicine. Applicants must provide photo ID, Social Security numbers, and proof of income and residency. They can be reached at (662) 393-6439.
• Sacred Heart Southern Missions: Located in Walls, this organization provides utility and rent assistance, when funds are available, to residents who meet poverty income guidelines. They can be contacted at (662) 781-1360.
• Mid-State Opportunity: This non-profit administers several financial assistance programs for DeSoto County, including water and energy bill assistance programs. Their number is (662) 895-4153.

Urgent Assistance for Eviction Prevention

The need for rental assistance is often driven by the immediate threat of eviction. When a household falls behind on rent, navigating the legal process and finding emergency support becomes the top priority. Mississippi has a network of resources designed to help tenants understand their rights and access aid.

7.1 First Call for Help: The 211 Mississippi Helpline

For any resident facing a housing crisis, the first call to make is to 211. 211 is a free, confidential, statewide referral service that connects people to essential health and human services.

Trained specialists are available to assess a caller's needs and provide information on local organizations that offer rental assistance, utility payment help, emergency shelter, and legal aid. In Mississippi, calls seeking assistance with rent and utilities are among the most common, making 211 a critical entry point for eviction prevention resources.

7.2 Securing Legal Aid for Tenant Issues

Receiving a formal eviction notice initiates a legal process. Tenants have rights, but navigating it without legal guidance can be difficult. Several organizations in Mississippi provide free legal services to low-income individuals facing eviction.

• Mississippi Center for Justice: This public interest law firm advocates for the rights of low-income Mississippians and can provide legal assistance in housing matters. They can be reached at (228) 702-9983.
• Mississippi Legal Services: This organization provides free civil legal assistance to eligible low-income residents across the state. They can be contacted at (800) 498-1804 for help with landlord-tenant disputes and eviction proceedings.

Contacting one of these organizations immediately after receiving an eviction summons is crucial. A lawyer can help a tenant understand the lawsuit, file a formal answer with the court, and represent them at the hearing.

7.3 The Role of a HUD-Approved Housing Counselor

In addition to legal aid, HUD-approved housing counseling agencies offer invaluable free assistance to renters. These trained counselors can provide expert advice on budgeting, understanding a lease, and negotiating with a landlord to avoid eviction.

They can also help renters identify local rental assistance programs and guide them through the application process. To find a local HUD-approved housing counseling agency, residents can search online via the HUD website or call the national hotline at (800) 569-4287.

After You Apply: Understanding the Outcome

The period after submitting an application for rental assistance can be stressful. Understanding the typical timeline for a decision and knowing what steps to take if an application is denied are essential parts of the process. A denial is not necessarily the final word.

8.1 The Review and Decision Timeline

For state-administered programs like TANF and SNAP, MDHS is required to provide a decision on eligibility within 30 calendar days from the date a complete application is received. Timelines for local non-profits and Community Action Agencies can vary depending on funding and application volume.

It is important to ensure that all requested information is submitted promptly to avoid delays. If an agency requests additional documents, providing them quickly is the best way to keep the application moving forward.

8.2 Responding to a Denial

Receiving a denial notice can be disheartening, but it is important to respond strategically. Applicants have rights and recourse in this situation.

• Review the Adverse Action Notice: If a program denies an application because of information in a tenant screening or credit report, they must provide an "adverse action notice." This notice must include the contact information of the company that supplied the report, allowing the applicant to obtain a free copy and check it for errors.
• Check for Errors: Carefully read the reason for denial. Sometimes, a denial is due to a simple administrative error, such as an incorrect calculation of income or missing documentation. If an error is identified, contact the agency immediately to provide the correct information.
• The Right to Dispute and Appeal: Applicants have the right to dispute any inaccurate or outdated information on their screening or credit reports. Furthermore, some assistance programs have a formal appeal process. For example, the Mississippi Home Corporation's Homeowner Assistance Fund program has a specific process for applicants to appeal a denial. Always ask the agency if a formal appeal process is available.
• Explore Other Options: A denial from one program does not preclude eligibility for another. If an application for a state program is denied, the next step should be to contact local non-profits like The Salvation Army, reach out to 211 for a new referral, or contact a HUD-approved housing counselor to review other available options. A single denial should be viewed as a reason to explore other avenues of support.

Frequently Asked Questions