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housing assistance in washington

Housing Assistance for Single Mothers in Washington

Complete Housing Assistance Guide for Single Mothers in Washington

Last updated: August 2025

Information verified with current program data as of August 12, 2025


Main Points

  • Emergency rental assistance is available through multiple county programs and United Way King County for eviction prevention
  • Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) help pay up to 70% of rent, but waiting lists are 12-36 months long statewide
  • Washington State Housing Finance Commission programs offer down payment assistance up to 5% of loan amount for first-time buyers
  • LIHEAP energy assistance provides $250-$1,250 for heating bills and up to $10,000 for energy crises
  • Income limits vary by county – most programs serve families earning 30-80% of area median income
  • Washington is one of the nation’s most expensive housing markets with only 29 affordable units per 100 extremely low-income renters

If You Need Help Today

Facing eviction or homeless? Call 2-1-1 immediately for emergency assistance. Available 24/7 in multiple languages.

Can’t pay rent now? Contact your county’s Coordinated Entry system for emergency rental assistance.

Behind on utilities? Apply for LIHEAP energy assistance through your local Community Action Agency.

In danger? Washington State Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 562-6025 or National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233

King County emergency rent help: United Way Rental Assistance – Submit Client Intake Form online

Emergency Housing Assistance

United Way King County Rental Assistance

United Way of King County operates one of the largest emergency rental assistance programs in Washington state. The program helps King County residents who are behind on rent avoid eviction through direct payments to landlords.

What it covers:

  • Back rent payments (no specified limit in current program materials)
  • Direct payments made to landlords/property managers
  • No repayment required – these are grants, not loans

Eligibility requirements:

  • Current address in King County, Washington
  • Behind on rent at current address
  • Landlord must agree to participate in the program

How to apply: Complete the Client Intake Form online. Due to high demand and limited funding, United Way uses a random selection process from submitted applications.

Processing time: United Way contacts selected households directly. Response times may be longer than usual due to high community demand.

Reality check: According to United Way’s own statements, “due to limited funding, the program is not able to serve everyone that submits a Client Intake Form.” Submission does not guarantee assistance. Apply early and to multiple programs if available in your area.

Multi-Service Center Emergency Assistance

Multi-Service Center provides one-time rent assistance to residents of specific South King County cities: Burien, Kent, Renton, and SeaTac. Federal Way assistance is no longer available as of 2025.

Eligibility requirements:

  • Live within city limits of served communities
  • Income must equal approximately twice your monthly rent
  • Must demonstrate ability to pay rent independently the following month
  • Must have a verifiable emergency that prevented payment

Application process: Online applications open at limited times each month. Check the MSC website for current availability. When capacity is reached, applications close until the next month.

Reality check: MSC reports they cannot assist 85% or more of those seeking help due to limited funding and high demand.

County-Specific Emergency Programs

Pierce County

Pierce County offers emergency rental assistance through local service providers. Contact 2-1-1 for referrals to current programs with available funding.

Snohomish County

Contact Community Action of Snohomish County at various locations throughout the county for emergency assistance programs.

2-1-1 Washington

Call 2-1-1 or visit Washington211.org for immediate referrals to emergency housing assistance in all Washington counties.

Long-Term Housing Programs

Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)

The Housing Choice Voucher program is the federal government’s largest rental assistance program. In Washington, very low-income families typically pay 30% of their income toward rent, with the voucher covering the remainder up to Fair Market Rent limits.

Income Eligibility (2025)

Source: HUD Income Limits 2025

Area 1 Person (30% AMI) 2 People (30% AMI) 3 People (30% AMI) 4 People (30% AMI)
Seattle-Tacoma $30,550 $34,900 $39,250 $43,600
Spokane $17,450 $19,950 $22,450 $24,900
Pierce County $25,400 $29,000 $32,650 $36,250
Statewide Non-Metro $19,200 $21,950 $24,700 $27,400

Note: These represent extremely low-income limits (30% AMI). Very low-income limits (50% AMI) are higher. Check with your local Public Housing Authority for exact figures.

Fair Market Rents (2025)

Source: HUD Fair Market Rents FY2025

Metro Area 1 BR 2 BR 3 BR 4 BR
Seattle-Tacoma $1,452 $1,863 $2,659 $3,259
Spokane $734 $926 $1,318 $1,760
Bellingham $977 $1,198 $1,667 $2,074
Olympia $994 $1,249 $1,728 $2,074

These are maximum amounts Section 8 will pay toward rent in each area.

Application Process and Wait Times

Major Housing Authorities:

Seattle Housing Authority

Pierce County Housing Authority

King County Housing Authority

Reality check: Washington has only 29 affordable rental homes available for every 100 extremely low-income renters statewide. Most housing authorities have years-long waiting lists and may close applications when demand exceeds their capacity to serve applicants within reasonable timeframes.

Public Housing

Public housing developments are owned and operated by local housing authorities. Rent is typically 30% of adjusted income. Contact your local housing authority for availability, as most have limited units and long waiting lists.

Utility Assistance Programs

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

LIHEAP helps eligible households pay heating and cooling bills through Washington’s Department of Commerce.

Benefits Available (FY2025)

Source: Washington LIHEAP Program

Benefit Type Amount Range
Regular Heating Assistance $250 – $1,250
Crisis Assistance Up to $10,000
Weatherization Up to $20,000

Income Eligibility

Heating & Crisis Assistance: 150% of Federal Poverty Level Weatherization: 200% of Federal Poverty Level or 60% State Median Income

Household Size 150% FPL (Annual)
1 person $22,590
2 people $30,660
3 people $38,730
4 people $46,800

How to apply: Use the LIHEAP public map tool to find your local provider and schedule an appointment. You cannot apply directly to the state – must go through local Community Action Agencies.

Program year: October 1, 2024 through September 30, 2025. You can apply once per program year.

State Home Energy Assistance Program (SHEAP)

SHEAP helps Washington residents pay utility bills and move to clean energy heating/cooling options. Available for individuals and families making up to 80% of Area Median Income.

Maximum benefit: Up to $1,000 Eligibility: 80% of Area Median Income Fuel type: Electric bills only

Homeownership Programs

Washington State Housing Finance Commission (WSHFC) Programs

Home Advantage Program

Washington’s Home Advantage program offers 30-year mortgages for first-time home buyers through qualified lenders.

Features:

  • Down payment assistance up to 4% of loan amount
  • Available for single-family homes, townhomes, condos, manufactured homes
  • Home buyer education required
  • Income limits apply (typically up to $180,000 annual household income)

House Key Opportunity Program

Down payment assistance: Up to 5% of loan amount Interest rate: 0% interest loan Repayment: Deferred for 30 years, due if you sell or refinance Loan types: Conventional, FHA, VA loans accepted

Veterans’ Homebuyer Program

For military veterans and Washington National Guard/Reserve members:

  • $10,000 in down payment assistance
  • 3% interest rate second mortgage
  • Deferred for up to 30 years

Covenant Homeownership Program

This program addresses historic housing discrimination by providing zero-interest loans for down payments and closing costs.

Eligibility requirements:

  • First-time homebuyer or applicable relative lived in Washington before April 1968
  • Income at or below 100% of area median income
  • Affected by historic housing discrimination (racially restrictive covenants)

Benefit: Average loan amount approximately $111,000 based on 2025 data Status: As of February 2025, the program has helped 247 families purchase homes

Specialized Housing Resources

Transitional Housing Programs

Domestic Violence Housing

Washington State Coalition Against Domestic Violence

  • 24/7 Hotline: (800) 562-6025
  • Emergency shelter placement
  • Transitional housing programs
  • Safety planning and case management

Family Shelters and Transitional Programs

Contact 2-1-1 for referrals to family transitional housing programs in your area, including faith-based and secular options.

Coordinated Entry System

Washington uses a Coordinated Entry system in each county to connect people experiencing homelessness with housing resources. This system prioritizes assistance based on vulnerability and housing needs.

How it works:

  1. Contact your county’s Coordinated Entry program
  2. Complete assessment of housing needs and vulnerability
  3. Get placed on prioritized list for available housing resources
  4. Receive referrals to appropriate housing programs

Inclusive Housing Resources

LGBTQ+ Single Mothers

While Washington has stronger LGBTQ+ protections than many states, housing discrimination can still occur. Resources include:

National resources:

Local Washington support:

Tribal-Specific Resources

Washington state has 29 federally recognized tribes, each receiving Indian Housing Block Grant funding.

Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA) programs:

Example tribal programs:

HUD Office of Native American Programs (Northwest Region):

Rural Single Mothers with Limited Access

Rural families face unique challenges including limited transportation, fewer service providers, and higher housing costs relative to local incomes.

Transportation assistance:

  • Contact local Community Action Agencies for gas vouchers
  • Some agencies provide transportation to appointments
  • Telehealth and virtual support services increasingly available

Rural-specific programs:

  • USDA Rural Development programs (contact local offices)
  • Rural Community Action Agencies provide outreach services
  • Mobile service delivery in some counties

Single Fathers

All housing assistance programs described in this guide are available regardless of gender. Single fathers face similar housing challenges and can access the same resources:

Additional support:

Resources by Region

King County (Seattle Metro)

United Way of King County

Seattle Housing Authority

King County Housing Authority

Pierce County (Tacoma Area)

Pierce County Housing Authority

Pierce County Human Services

Snohomish County

Housing Authority of Snohomish County (HASCO)

Spokane County

Spokane Housing Authority

Southwest Washington (Clark County)

Clark County area has seen significant COVID-19 rental assistance programs – contact 2-1-1 for current available programs.

Vancouver Housing Authority

  • Contact directly for current program availability

Eastern Washington

Rural areas served by:

Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)

How long do I have to wait for Section 8 in Washington?

According to housing authorities across Washington, waiting times vary dramatically by location:

  • Seattle metro area: 18-36 months
  • Spokane area: 12-24 months
  • Rural areas: 6-18 months (when wait lists are open)
  • Current reality: Many housing authorities have closed their waiting lists entirely due to overwhelming demand

Check current waiting list status before applying. Priority goes to families experiencing homelessness, those with disabilities, and elderly households.

Can I get help if I’m working?

Yes! Most programs have income limits rather than requiring unemployment. For example, a single mother with two children can typically earn up to about $39,250 annually (30% AMI in Seattle) and still qualify for extremely low-income housing programs. Some programs serve families earning up to 80% AMI.

What if my landlord won’t accept Section 8?

Washington does not have source of income discrimination laws, so landlords can legally refuse Section 8 vouchers. However, over 1,500 landlords partner with Seattle Housing Authority alone. Contact your housing authority for lists of participating landlords.

Can I combine different assistance programs?

Yes, you can often layer programs. For example, you might receive LIHEAP for utilities, emergency rental assistance for back rent, and apply for long-term Section 8 – as long as you meet each program’s individual requirements and they don’t duplicate benefits.

What if I have bad credit or a past eviction?

Emergency assistance programs typically don’t check credit. For Section 8, housing authorities may consider negative history but often allow explanations. Under NAHASDA guidelines, you cannot be evicted without “good cause,” and tribal housing must explain denials in writing.

How do I prove my income if I’m paid in cash?

Keep detailed records and get written statements from employers, even for cash work. Your local housing counselor can help document irregular income. Community Action Agencies often assist with paperwork organization.

What if I’m undocumented?

Most federal housing programs require legal immigration status, but emergency assistance through Community Action Agencies may be available regardless of status. Contact 2-1-1 for guidance on programs that don’t require documentation.

Can I transfer my Section 8 voucher from another state?

Yes, Section 8 vouchers are “portable” between states through the portability process. Contact your current housing authority before moving to initiate the transfer process to Washington.

What happens if my income increases after getting assistance?

Programs have annual income reviews. If your income exceeds limits, you may have a phase-out period or need to transition to other housing. This represents positive progress toward self-sufficiency.

What if I’m denied assistance?

Every program has an appeals process. You’ll receive written notice with information about requesting a hearing. Don’t miss the deadline – usually 10-14 days from denial. Legal aid organizations can help with appeals.

Warning Signs and Reality Checks

Red Flags to Avoid

Housing scams: Never pay fees to apply for government housing programs. Section 8 and public housing applications are always free.

Fake rental listings: Be wary of properties requiring money before viewing or deals that seem too good to be true in expensive markets like Seattle.

“Guaranteed” housing: No legitimate service can guarantee housing assistance or move you ahead on waiting lists.

Common Challenges

Extremely limited affordable housing: Washington has only 29 affordable units per 100 extremely low-income renters. Competition is intense.

High cost of living: Washington is among the nation’s most expensive housing markets. Even with assistance, finding affordable housing remains challenging.

Geographic barriers: Rural areas have fewer programs and services. Transportation to appointments can be costly.

Complex application processes: Multiple agencies, different requirements, and extensive paperwork can be overwhelming.

Tips for Success

Apply to multiple programs simultaneously: Don’t wait for denial from one before applying to others.

Stay organized: Keep copies of all documents, applications, and correspondence in organized files.

Follow up regularly: Contact agencies monthly for status updates and to provide additional information.

Be honest about your situation: Programs are designed to help people in difficult circumstances. Accuracy is essential.

Get professional help: Contact a HUD-approved housing counselor for free assistance navigating applications and housing searches.

Additional Resources

Washington State Agencies

Department of Social and Health Services

Department of Commerce

Federal Resources

HUD Customer Service

Washington Connection

Legal Aid

Northwest Justice Project

Washington LawHelp

Financial Counseling

Washington State Housing Finance Commission

About this guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

The ASingleMother.org team has been researching and writing comprehensive benefits guides for single mothers across all 50 states since 2020. Our editorial team regularly updates these guides by reviewing official government sources, contacting state agencies, and incorporating feedback from hundreds of single mothers who have used these programs.

This Washington guide represents over 5 years of experience helping single mothers navigate the benefits system. We verify information with official sources including Washington Department of Social and Health Services, Department of Commerce, HUD, and local housing authorities to ensure accuracy.

Information compiled from official Washington state agencies, HUD, USDA, and local housing authority sources. Last verified: August 2025.

The ASingleMother.org editorial team welcomes feedback on this guide. If you find outdated information or discover new resources, please contact us at info@asinglemother.org so we can help other single mothers with accurate, current information.

Disclaimer

Program details, income limits, and availability can change frequently. This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal or financial advice. Always verify current program requirements, application deadlines, and income limits with the relevant agency before applying. Funding for assistance programs is limited and not guaranteed to be available when you apply. Wait lists for housing assistance are common and can be very long in Washington’s competitive housing market.

For the most current information, contact programs directly or speak with a HUD-approved housing counselor at (800) 569-4287.

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