Housing Assistance for Single Mothers in Georgia

Complete Housing Assistance Guide for Single Mothers in Georgia

Last updated: August 2025

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

Main Points

Emergency rental assistance is available through Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) providers serving all 159 counties in Georgia
Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) help pay up to 70% of rent, but waiting lists in metro areas average 18-36 months
Georgia Dream Homeownership Program offers 0% down payment assistance up to $10,000 for first-time homebuyers
LIHEAP utility assistance provides up to $810 for winter heating bills and $500 for summer cooling
Income limits vary by county – most programs serve families earning 50-80% of area median income
Multiple programs can be combined for maximum assistance

If You Need Help Today

Facing eviction or homeless? Call 2-1-1 immediately for emergency assistance or contact your local Community Action Agency.

Can’t pay utilities? Contact Georgia Power’s Community Assistance for crisis utility assistance up to $500, or apply for LIHEAP assistance.

Need rent help now? Apply through Emergency Solutions Grant providers administered by local nonprofits and Community Action Agencies.

In danger? Georgia Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 334-2836 or National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233

Emergency Housing Assistance

Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) Program

The Emergency Solutions Grant program is Georgia’s primary source of emergency rental assistance, administered by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs. The program provides funding to local nonprofits and government agencies to prevent homelessness and help families transition to stable housing.

What it covers:

Up to 24 months of rental assistance (varies by provider)
Security deposits and first month’s rent for new housing
Utility deposits and past-due utility payments
Moving costs and temporary storage
Case management and housing search assistance

Income requirements: Generally serves households at or below 30% of Area Median Income, with priority given to families experiencing homelessness or at immediate risk.

How to apply: Contact your local ESG provider through DCA’s website. Each county has designated Community Action Agencies or nonprofits that handle applications.

Processing time: Applications are typically processed within 2-4 weeks, but funding availability varies by county and demand.

Reality check: According to the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute, in FY 2024, over $14.1 million in ESG funding requests were made to DCA, but only about $4.7 million was available to award. Apply immediately if facing eviction – don’t wait.

Community Action Agency Crisis Assistance

Georgia has 20 Community Action Agencies serving all 159 counties. These agencies provide emergency assistance including rental help, utility payments, and basic needs support.

Example programs:

Crisis intervention for utility shut-offs
Emergency rental assistance (amounts vary by agency)
Security deposit assistance
Emergency food and clothing

Contact: Visit Georgia Power’s Community Assistance directory to find your local agency.

2-1-1 Georgia

Call 2-1-1 or visit 211online.unitedway.org for immediate referrals to emergency assistance in your area.

Long-Term Housing Programs

Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)

The Housing Choice Voucher program is the federal government’s largest rental assistance program. In Georgia, 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

Family Size	Very Low Income (50% AMI)	Extremely Low Income (30% AMI)
1 person	$26,700	$16,020
2 people	$30,500	$18,300
3 people	$34,350	$20,610
4 people	$38,150	$22,890

Note: Income limits vary significantly by county and metropolitan area. These figures represent Atlanta metro area averages. Check with your local Public Housing Authority for exact figures in your area.

Priority groups:

Families experiencing homelessness
Families with disabilities
Elderly households
Families paying more than 50% of income for rent

Application process:

Apply through the Georgia DCA Applicant Portal when waiting list opens
Provide income verification, ID, Social Security cards, and rental history
Complete eligibility interview and background check
Wait for voucher availability (typically 18-36 months in metro areas)
Attend voucher briefing and receive Housing Choice Voucher
Find qualifying rental unit within 60-120 days
Pass housing quality standards inspection before move-in

Reality check: According to HUD data, Georgia housing authorities in urban areas like Atlanta have waiting lists averaging 18-36 months, with rural areas experiencing shorter waits. Many housing authorities periodically close their waiting lists when demand exceeds capacity.

Fair Market Rents (2025)

Source: HUD Fair Market Rents FY2025

Area	1 BR	2 BR	3 BR	4 BR
Atlanta	$1,169	$1,345	$1,659	$1,959
Augusta	$742	$860	$1,071	$1,271
Columbus	$765	$897	$1,122	$1,322
Savannah	$954	$1,108	$1,398	$1,598

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

Public Housing

Public housing developments are owned and operated by local housing authorities. Rent is typically 30% of adjusted income, and utilities may be included.

Pros:

Lower cost than Section 8 in some areas
Stable housing with on-site management
Some properties offer supportive services

Cons:

Limited locations
Long waiting lists
Less choice in neighborhoods

Georgia Dream Homeownership Program

The Georgia Dream Homeownership Program provides affordable mortgage financing and down payment assistance to eligible homebuyers.

Program Options (Effective July 1, 2025)

Program	Down Payment Assistance	Max Income (1-2 people)	Max Income (3+ people)
Standard	Up to $10,000 (5% of price)	$130,290	$149,833
PEN*	Up to $12,500 (6% of price)	$130,290	$149,833
CHOICE**	Up to $12,500 (6% of price)	$130,290	$149,833

*PEN: Public protectors, Educators, health care providers, active military **CHOICE: Families with a member living with a disability

Eligibility requirements:

First-time homebuyer or haven’t owned home in past 3 years
Meet income limits for your county
Have liquid assets of no more than $20,000 or 20% of sales price
Minimum credit score of 640
Complete homebuyer education course

How to apply: Contact a Georgia Dream Participating Lender to begin pre-qualification process.

Reality check: The down payment assistance is a 0% interest deferred loan that must be repaid when you sell, refinance, or move out. This isn’t free money – plan accordingly.

Utility Assistance Programs

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

LIHEAP helps eligible households pay heating and cooling bills through the Georgia Department of Human Services.

Benefits Available (FY2025)

Source: Georgia LIHEAP Program Data

Benefit Type	Winter Amount	Summer Amount	Crisis Amount
Regular	$400-$810	$400-$500	N/A
Crisis	Up to $810	Up to $500	Up to $810

Income Eligibility (60% State Median Income)

Source: Georgia DFCS LIHEAP Guidelines

Household Size	Maximum Annual Income
1 person	$33,038
2 people	$43,275
3 people	$53,513
4 people	$63,750
5 people	$73,700

Application periods:

Winter assistance: December 2, 2024 – July 31, 2025 (seniors 65+ start December 2; general public starts January 2)
Summer assistance: April 1 – July 31, 2025 (seniors 65+ start April 1; general public starts May 1)

Processing time: Typically 2-3 weeks after complete application submission.

Required documents:

Photo ID for applicant
Social Security cards for all household members
Recent electric and heating bills
Proof of all household income for past 30 days

How to apply: Contact your local Community Action Agency. Applications are processed first-come, first-served until funds are exhausted.

Georgia Power Assistance Programs

Georgia Power offers several programs to help qualifying customers with their energy bills.

Income-Qualified Discount: Up to $33.50 per month off power bills for customers with household income at or below 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines.

Home Energy Efficiency Assistance Program (HEEAP): Free energy efficiency improvements like attic insulation and smart thermostats for customers at or below 200% of federal poverty guidelines.

Homeownership Programs

Georgia Dream First-Time Homebuyer Programs

The Georgia Department of Community Affairs offers several homeownership programs beyond the main Georgia Dream program:

Down Payment Assistance: Up to $10,000 (or $12,500 for qualifying professions) in 0% interest deferred loans Homebuyer Education: Required HUD-approved counseling to prepare for homeownership Special Programs: Enhanced assistance for public service workers and families with disabilities

FHA Loans

Federal Housing Administration loans require as little as 3.5% down payment and accept lower credit scores than conventional loans.

Benefits:

Down payment as low as 3.5%
Credit scores as low as 580 accepted
Seller can pay closing costs
Assumable loans

VA Loans (for Veterans)

Veterans and eligible spouses can access VA loans with:

No down payment required
No private mortgage insurance
Competitive interest rates
No prepayment penalties

Specialized Housing Resources

Transitional Housing Programs

Georgia Alliance to End Homelessness

The Georgia Alliance to End Homelessness coordinates programs statewide to assist residents in finding transitional and permanent housing.

Services include:

Transitional housing programs
Rapid rehousing assistance
Employment support services
Case management

Domestic Violence Housing

Georgia Coalition Against Domestic Violence

24/7 Hotline: (800) 334-2836

Safe housing options for survivors of domestic violence, including:

Emergency shelter
Transitional housing programs
Rapid rehousing assistance
Safety planning and support services

Inclusive Housing Resources

LGBTQ+ Single Mothers

While Georgia has limited LGBTQ+-specific housing programs, the following resources provide affirming support:

National resources:

National LGBTQ Task Force: Housing discrimination information
SAGE (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders): Senior housing resources

Local support:

Contact 2-1-1 and specifically ask about LGBTQ+-affirming housing providers
Georgia Equality: Advocacy and resource referrals

Tribal-Specific Resources

Georgia does not have federally recognized tribes, but Native American families may access:

HUD Indian Housing Programs: Available to enrolled tribal members nationwide Native American Housing Assistance: Contact HUD’s Office of Native American Programs at (800) 955-2232

Rural Single Mothers with Limited Access

Rural families face unique challenges including limited transportation and fewer service providers.

Specialized resources:

USDA Rural Development programs available throughout rural Georgia
Rural Community Action Agencies provide outreach services
Some agencies offer transportation vouchers for essential appointments

Transportation assistance:

Contact local Community Action Agencies for transportation vouchers
Some agencies provide gas cards for essential appointments

Single Fathers

While this guide focuses on single mothers, single fathers face similar housing challenges and can access the same programs:

All housing assistance programs described above are available regardless of gender Additional resources:

National At-Home Dad Network: Support groups and resources
Single Father Network: Online community and local meetups

Resources by Region

Metro Atlanta (Fulton, DeKalb, Gwinnett, Cobb, Clayton Counties)

Atlanta Housing Authority

Housing Choice Vouchers
Public housing
Homeownership programs
Address: 230 John Wesley Dobbs Ave. NE, Atlanta, GA 30312
Phone: (404) 892-4700

Fulton Atlanta Community Action Authority

LIHEAP utility assistance
Emergency assistance programs
Phone: (404) 320-0166

North Georgia

North Georgia Community Action, Inc.

Emergency housing assistance
Utility help
Weatherization programs
Phone: (706) 692-5644

Central Georgia

Heart of Georgia Community Action Council

LIHEAP assistance
Emergency rental help
Housing counseling
Phone: (478) 374-4301

Macon-Bibb County Economic Opportunity Council

Housing assistance programs
Utility help
Emergency assistance
Phone: (478) 738-3240

South Georgia

Southwest Georgia Community Action Council

Emergency Solutions Grant programs
LIHEAP assistance
Housing services
Phone: (229) 985-3610

Coastal Georgia

Coastal Georgia Area Community Action Authority

Housing assistance programs
Emergency services
Utility assistance
Counties served: Bryan, Camden, Chatham, Effingham, Glynn, Liberty, Long, McIntosh

Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)

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

According to current data from Georgia housing authorities, waiting times vary dramatically by location:

Metro Atlanta areas (Fulton, DeKalb, Gwinnett): 24-36 months
Mid-size cities (Augusta, Columbus, Savannah): 18-24 months
Rural areas: 6-18 months
Statewide average: 18-30 months

Many housing authorities periodically close their waiting lists when they become too long. Check current waiting list status with your local housing authority before applying.

Can I get help if I’m working full-time?

Yes! Most programs have income limits rather than requiring unemployment. According to 2025 HUD income limits, a single mother with two children in the Atlanta metro area can earn up to about $34,350 annually (50% Area Median Income) and still qualify for very low-income housing programs. Some programs serve families earning up to 80% AMI (approximately $54,960 for a family of three).

What if my landlord won’t accept Section 8?

Georgia does not have source of income discrimination laws, so landlords can legally refuse Section 8 vouchers. However, many do accept them. Contact Atlanta Housing or your local housing authority for lists of participating landlords, or use HUD’s housing search tools.

Can I combine different assistance programs?

Yes, you can often combine programs. For example, you might use LIHEAP for utilities, receive SNAP benefits for food, and apply for emergency rental assistance – as long as you meet each program’s individual requirements and they don’t duplicate the same expenses.

What if I have bad credit or a previous eviction?

Many emergency assistance programs don’t have strict credit requirements. For long-term housing like Section 8, housing authorities may consider negative history but often allow explanations and evidence of changed circumstances. Contact a HUD-approved housing counselor for help addressing credit issues.

How do I prove my income if I work multiple part-time jobs?

Keep detailed records of all work and income. Get written statements from all employers. Your local housing counselor can help you document irregular income properly. For cash work, maintain receipts and written statements whenever possible.

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. Some local programs also provide help. Contact 2-1-1 for guidance on programs that don’t require documentation.

Can I transfer my Section 8 voucher from another state?

Section 8 vouchers are portable – you can transfer them between states through the “portability” process. Contact the Georgia DCA to begin the transfer process before moving.

What happens if my income increases after getting assistance?

Most programs have annual income reviews. If your income increases above program limits, you’ll typically have a phase-out period or may need to transition to other housing options. This is actually a positive step toward self-sufficiency.

How do I appeal if I’m denied assistance?

Every program has an appeals process. You’ll receive written notice of denial with information about how to request a hearing. Don’t miss the deadline – usually 10-14 days from the denial date. A HUD-approved housing counselor can help with the appeals process.

Warning Signs and Reality Checks

Red Flags to Avoid

Housing scams are common: Never pay fees to apply for Section 8 or public housing. Government programs are free to apply for.

Fake landlords: Be wary of rental listings that require money upfront before viewing the property or seem too good to be true.

“Guaranteed” housing: No legitimate service can guarantee you’ll receive housing assistance or move to the front of waiting lists.

Common Challenges

Limited funding: All assistance programs have more applicants than available help. Apply early and to multiple programs.

Paperwork requirements: Gather documents in advance. Missing paperwork is the most common reason for delays.

Transportation barriers: Many offices require in-person visits. Ask about mobile services or assistance with transportation costs.

Childcare needs: Some appointments don’t allow children. Ask about childcare assistance or virtual options.

Tips for Success

Apply to multiple programs simultaneously: Don’t wait to be denied by one program before applying to others.

Keep copies of everything: Maintain organized files of all applications, documents, and correspondence.

Follow up regularly: Call agencies monthly to check on application status and provide any additional information needed.

Be honest about your situation: Provide accurate information. Programs are designed to help people in difficult circumstances.

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

Additional Resources

Georgia State Agencies

Georgia Department of Human Services

SNAP, Medicaid, TANF applications
Phone: (877) 423-4746
Online: dhs.georgia.gov

Georgia Department of Community Affairs

Housing programs administration
Emergency Solutions Grants
Phone: (404) 679-4940

Federal Resources

HUD Customer Service

General housing information
Phone: (800) 569-4287
Website: hud.gov

USDA Rural Development

Rural housing programs
Phone: (770) 279-1441
Website: rd.usda.gov

Legal Aid

Georgia Legal Services Program

Free legal help for housing issues
Eviction defense
Phone: (833) 862-5342
Website: glsp.org

Atlanta Legal Aid Society

Housing law assistance
Tenant rights information
Phone: (404) 524-5811

Financial Counseling

Georgia Financial Counseling Programs Find a certified financial counselor to help with budgeting, credit repair, and homebuyer education through the National Endowment for Financial Education.

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 Georgia guide represents over 5 years of experience helping single mothers navigate the benefits system. We verify information with official sources including Georgia Department of Human Services, Georgia Department of Community Affairs, USDA, HHS, and local nonprofits to ensure accuracy.

Information compiled from official Georgia Department of Human Services, Georgia Department of Community Affairs, HUD, USDA, and HHS 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. 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.

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

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