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housing assistance in indiana

Housing Assistance for Single Mothers in Indiana

Complete Housing Assistance Guide for Single Mothers in Indiana

Last updated: August 2025

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


Main Points

  • Emergency rental assistance through IHCDA was closed in March 2025 but court ordered resumption is pending appeal
  • Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) help pay up to 70% of rent, but waiting lists are 12-24 months long statewide
  • Energy Assistance Program (EAP) provides up to $675 for winter bills and additional crisis assistance
  • Indiana does not cover Indianapolis or Marion County through IHCDA programs – they have separate systems
  • Income limits vary by county – most programs serve families earning 50-60% of area median income
  • 22 Community Action Agencies serve all 92 counties for emergency assistance and energy help

If You Need Help Today

Facing eviction or homeless? Call 2-1-1 immediately for emergency assistance. Available 24/7 in all Indiana counties.

Can’t pay utilities and facing shutoff? Contact your local Community Action Agency for crisis assistance up to $800.

Need rent help now? IHCDA Emergency Rental Assistance is currently suspended but may resume based on ongoing court case. Contact 2-1-1 for alternatives.

In Indianapolis/Marion County? Call 317-923-1466 for Winter Assistance Fund or contact Community Action of Greater Indianapolis.

In danger of domestic violence? Indiana Coalition for Domestic Violence: 800-332-7385 or National Domestic Violence Hotline: 800-799-7233

Winter utility shutoff protection: From December 1 through March 15, regulated utilities cannot disconnect service if you’ve applied for Energy Assistance Program.

Emergency Housing Assistance

Indiana Emergency Rental Assistance (IERA) – Current Status

Important Update: The Indiana Emergency Rental Assistance program was abruptly closed in March 2025 by state officials. However, a court case (Cadence Blanchard vs. IHCDA) resulted in a judge ordering the program to resume in April 2025. The state has appealed this decision, and the case is currently pending with the Indiana Court of Appeals.

What this means for you: IERA is currently not accepting new applications, but existing applications in the system continue to be processed. The program status could change based on the court appeal outcome.

Alternative resources while IERA is suspended:

Community Action Agency Emergency Assistance

Indiana has 22 Community Action Agencies that serve all 92 counties and provide various emergency assistance programs including temporary shelter, rental assistance, and utility help. Each agency designs programs based on local community needs, so services vary by location.

Common emergency services include:

  • Emergency rental assistance (amounts vary by agency and funding availability)
  • Security deposit assistance for new housing
  • Utility crisis assistance up to $800
  • Emergency food and clothing assistance
  • Temporary shelter referrals

How to find your agency: Visit the IHCDA Community Action Agency directory or call 2-1-1.

Reality check: Emergency assistance funding is extremely limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Many agencies have waiting lists, especially during winter months when demand is highest.

Township Trustee Emergency Assistance

Indiana Township Trustees are elected officials whose duties include helping low-income persons in their township with basic necessities including rent, utility bills, medicine, food, clothing, and medical expenses.

Services typically include:

  • Emergency rental assistance (usually one-time help)
  • Utility assistance to prevent shutoffs
  • Emergency food assistance
  • Medical prescription help
  • Transportation assistance for essential appointments

How to find your trustee: Call 317-813-3240 or visit in211.org to locate your township trustee.

Application requirements: Usually require proof of income, identification, bills showing need, and evidence of township residency.

Long-Term Housing Programs

Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)

The Housing Choice Voucher program is the federal government’s largest rental assistance program. IHCDA administers vouchers to help over 4,000 families pay their rent each month, with families typically paying 30-40% of their income toward rent while the voucher covers the remainder.

Income Eligibility Requirements (2025)

To qualify for Section 8 housing in Indiana, household income must fall below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI), with priority given to those earning below 30% of the AMI.

Family Size Very Low Income (50% AMI) Extremely Low Income (30% AMI)
1 person $23,400 $14,040
2 people $26,750 $16,050
3 people $30,100 $18,060
4 people $33,400 $20,040

Note: Income limits vary significantly by county and metropolitan area. These figures represent approximate statewide averages. Check with your local housing authority for exact figures in your area.

Application Process and Wait Times

Critical limitation: IHCDA does not cover the City of Indianapolis or Marion County, Indiana. Indianapolis residents must apply through the Indianapolis Housing Agency.

Current waiting list status: Among Indiana’s 79 housing authorities with voucher programs, wait times vary dramatically. Over the last three years, Section 8 HCV waiting lists in Indiana were kept open an average of 955 days.

Typical wait times by region:

  • Rural counties: 12-18 months
  • Urban areas: 18-36 months
  • Statewide average: Up to or more than 24 months

Application steps:

  1. Check if your local housing authority has an open waiting list
  2. Submit application online or in person (requirements vary by authority)
  3. Provide income verification, ID, Social Security cards, and rental history
  4. Complete eligibility interview if selected for waiting list
  5. Wait for voucher availability (can be years)
  6. Attend voucher briefing when selected
  7. Find qualifying rental unit within 60-120 days
  8. Pass housing quality standards inspection before move-in

Reality check: Many housing authorities close their waiting lists when they have more families than they can serve in the near future. Currently, 15 housing authorities in Indiana have open Section 8 waiting lists.

Fair Market Rents (2025)

These are the maximum amounts Section 8 will pay toward rent in major Indiana markets:

Area 1 BR 2 BR 3 BR 4 BR
Indianapolis $744 $891 $1,158 $1,368
Fort Wayne $678 $832 $1,089 $1,289
Evansville $573 $729 $967 $1,167
South Bend $701 $901 $1,189 $1,401

Source: HUD Fair Market Rents FY2025

Indianapolis Housing Authority (Marion County Only)

For single mothers living in Marion County, the Indianapolis Housing Agency administers the federal HCV Program, currently allowing more than 8,000 families to choose and lease safe, decent and affordable privately-owned housing.

Contact: Indianapolis Housing Agency Coverage area: Marion County only

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 market rate housing
  • Stable housing with on-site management
  • Some properties offer supportive services

Cons:

  • Very limited locations statewide
  • Long waiting lists similar to Section 8
  • Less choice in neighborhoods

Utility Assistance Programs

Energy Assistance Program (EAP) – Indiana’s LIHEAP

The Energy Assistance Program (EAP) can help you pay your heat and electric bills! EAP provides a one-time annual benefit that can assist you with the high cost of home energy and can help if you are disconnected or are about to get disconnected.

Benefit Amounts (FY2025)

Eligible households may receive a one-time credit of up to $675. Priority is given to the elderly, disabled and households with small children.

Benefit Type Amount
Regular EAP $100 minimum, $675 maximum
Winter Crisis Up to $800 maximum
Summer Cooling Available if funds remain after winter season

Income Eligibility (60% State Median Income)

Indiana households that make 60% of the state median income (60 SMI) or less may qualify for these benefits.

Household Size Maximum Annual Income
1 person $35,760
2 people $46,800
3 people $57,840
4 people $68,880
5 people $79,920

Application period: The Energy Assistance Program is closed until Oct. 1, 2025. Applications typically open October 1 and close around April 14 each year.

Required documents:

  • Photo ID for utility account holder
  • Social Security cards for all household members
  • Recent utility bills showing past due amounts or disconnect notices
  • Proof of income for previous month for all household members 18+

How to apply: Applications can be made through a local Community Action Agency, known as Local Service Provider (LSP) or you may also now apply online at Indiana EAP Client Portal.

Winter shutoff protection: The Moratorium law (Indiana Code 8-1-2-121) states that from December 1st through March 15th of any year, a regulated utility company may not turn off residential utility service to any customer who is eligible for and who has applied for the Energy Assistance Program.

Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP)

Indiana LIHWAP is a temporary emergency program designed to help low-income households and families who have fallen behind on their water and wastewater bills. LIHWAP can only be applied through the Energy Assistance Program (EAP) application.

Current status: This was a temporary COVID-19 program. Check with your local Community Action Agency for current water assistance options.

Utility Company Assistance Programs

Many Indiana utilities offer their own assistance programs:

Northern Indiana Public Service Company (NIPSCO):

  • NIPSCO Care Program: 11-26% bill reductions for LIHEAP recipients
  • Hardship Program: Up to $200 for customers between 151-200% Federal Poverty Level

Duke Energy:

  • Helping Hand: One-time $100 payment for low-income customers 60+ or disabled
  • Share the Warmth: Weatherization assistance for households at 150% of federal poverty guidelines

Vectren:

  • Universal Service Program: 9-32% bill reductions for LIHEAP recipients

Homeownership Programs

USDA Rural Development Programs

Section 502 Direct Home Loans

For rural areas, USDA offers home loans with no down payment required for very low-income applicants. Loans are available up to 33 years (38 years for very low-income applicants who cannot afford the 33-year term).

Current benefits:

  • No down payment for most applicants
  • Below-market interest rates
  • Payment assistance subsidies available based on income
  • Loans up to $50,000 for home repairs

Eligibility requirements:

  • Property must be in USDA-eligible rural area (check eligibility)
  • Adjusted income at or below low-income limits for the area
  • Unable to obtain conventional financing
  • U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen

USDA Indiana offices:

  • Columbia City Area Office: 260-244-6266 (Adams, Allen, DeKalb, Huntington, LaGrange, Noble, Steuben, Wabash, Wells, and Whitley counties)
  • North Vernon Area Office: 812-346-3411 (Bartholomew, Brown, Clark, Dearborn, Decatur, Floyd, Franklin, Jackson, Jefferson, Jennings, Johnson, Lawrence, Morgan, Ohio, Ripley, Rush, Scott, Shelby, and Switzerland counties)

Section 504 Home Repair Loans and Grants

Very-low income homeowners in rural areas can receive loans up to $40,000 at 1% interest or grants up to $10,000 (must be 62+ for grants) for home repairs.

Combined assistance: Loans and grants can be combined for up to $50,000 in assistance or $55,000 in presidentially declared disaster areas.

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
  • Mortgage insurance protects lenders

Specialized Housing Resources

Domestic Violence Housing Resources

Coburn Place Safe Haven

Coburn Place Safe Haven is a local non-profit organization that helps women and children, specifically prioritizing victims of domestic violence.

Services include:

  • Temporary housing assistance
  • Legal assistance and protection order filing
  • Rent support and cash assistance
  • Safety planning and counseling

Contact: coburnplace.org or 317-923-5750

The Julian Center

The Julian Center is the largest treatment center for women who are victims of sexual violence. They have been operating since 1975 and also provide temporary housing assistance for single mothers.

Services:

  • Emergency shelter and transitional housing
  • Rent assistance based on financial circumstances
  • Crisis intervention and support services
  • Legal advocacy

Contact: juliancenter.org or crisis line 317-920-9320

Transitional Housing Programs

Dayspring Center Wellspring Cottage

The Wellspring Cottage provides temporary housing for families experiencing homelessness.

Services:

  • Safe housing for up to two years
  • Case management and support services
  • Employment and education assistance

Contact: dayspringindy.org

Wheeler Rescue Mission (Indianapolis area)

Provides transitional housing and support services for women and children.

Contact: Call 2-1-1 for referral to Wheeler Rescue Mission programs

Inclusive Housing Resources

LGBTQ+ Single Mothers

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

Local support:

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

National resources:

  • National LGBTQ Task Force: Housing discrimination information at 202-393-5177
  • SAGE (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders): Senior housing resources

Housing discrimination: LGBTQ+ individuals experiencing housing discrimination can contact the Fair Housing Center of Central Indiana at 317-466-0673.

Tribal-Specific Resources

Indiana 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 (described above)
  • Community Action Agencies provide outreach services in rural counties
  • Some agencies provide gas cards for essential appointments
  • Telehealth and virtual support services available through local health centers

Transportation assistance:

  • Contact local Community Action Agencies for transportation vouchers
  • Some township trustees provide emergency transportation assistance
  • 2-1-1 can connect you to local transportation resources

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:

  • Single Father Network: Online community and local meetups
  • Contact 2-1-1 for father-specific support groups in your area

Resources by Region

Central Indiana (Indianapolis Metro)

Community Action of Greater Indianapolis

  • Emergency assistance programs
  • Housing stability services
  • Energy assistance
  • Phone: 317-805-1180
  • Website: cagi-in.org

Indianapolis Housing Agency (Marion County only)

Northern Indiana

CoAction (formerly Northwest Indiana Community Action)

  • Emergency rental assistance
  • Energy assistance
  • Housing stability programs
  • Counties: Lake, Porter, LaPorte
  • Phone: 219-794-1829
  • Website: coaction.care

Brightpoint

  • Coordinated Entry for homeless individuals
  • Housing assistance programs
  • Counties: Adams, Allen, DeKalb, Huntington, LaGrange, Noble, Steuben, Wabash, Wells, Whitley
  • Phone: 260-423-3546
  • Website: mybrightpoint.org

Southern Indiana

Community Action of Southern Indiana

  • Emergency assistance
  • Housing programs
  • Energy assistance
  • Counties: Clark, Crawford, Dubois, Floyd, Gibson, Harrison, Orange, Perry, Pike, Posey, Scott, Spencer, Vanderburgh, Warrick, Washington
  • Phone: 812-425-4571

Human Services, Inc.

  • Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers for select counties
  • Emergency assistance programs
  • Counties: Bartholomew, Decatur, Jackson, Johnson, Shelby
  • Phone: 812-372-8407
  • Website: hsi-indiana.com

Western Indiana

Community Action Program of Western Indiana

  • Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
  • Emergency assistance
  • Energy programs
  • Counties: Benton, Fountain, Vermillion, Warren
  • Phone: 765-793-4881
  • Website: capwi.org

Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)

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

Waiting times vary dramatically by housing authority and location. Over the last three years, Section 8 HCV waiting lists in Indiana were kept open an average of 955 days (about 2.6 years).

Typical wait times:

  • Rural counties: 12-18 months
  • Urban areas: 18-36 months
  • Some urban authorities: Up to 3+ years

Many housing authorities close their waiting lists when they become too long, so you may not even be able to apply when you need help. Check current waiting list status before attempting to apply.

Can I get help if I work full-time?

Yes! Most programs have income limits rather than requiring unemployment. For example, a single mother with two children can typically earn up to about $30,100 annually (50% Area Median Income) and still qualify for very low-income housing programs. Some programs serve families earning up to 80% AMI.

What if I live in Indianapolis or Marion County?

IHCDA does not cover the City of Indianapolis or Marion County, Indiana. Indianapolis residents must apply through the Indianapolis Housing Agency for Section 8 vouchers and other housing programs.

Indianapolis-specific resources:

What happened to Indiana Emergency Rental Assistance?

IHCDA abruptly closed the Indiana Emergency Rental Assistance program in March 2025. A court case resulted in a judge ordering the program to resume, but the state appealed this decision. The case is currently pending with the Indiana Court of Appeals.

What this means: The program is suspended but could resume based on the court decision. Contact 2-1-1 for current alternatives in your area.

Can I get help paying my water bill?

LIHWAP was a temporary emergency program for water bills that has ended. However, some Community Action Agencies may still offer emergency water assistance through other funding sources. Contact your local Community Action Agency to ask about current water assistance programs.

What if my landlord won’t accept Section 8?

Indiana does not have source of income discrimination laws, so landlords can legally refuse Section 8 vouchers. However, many do accept them. Contact your housing authority for lists of participating landlords, or use IndianaHousingNow.org to search for Section 8-friendly properties.

Can I combine different assistance programs?

Yes, you can often combine programs as long as you meet each program’s individual requirements. For example, you might receive Section 8 for rent, EAP for utilities, and SNAP for food assistance simultaneously.

What if I have bad credit or an eviction history?

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

What if my utility company is threatening shutoff in winter?

From December 1 through March 15, regulated utilities cannot disconnect service if you’ve applied for Energy Assistance Program. Apply immediately and inform your utility company that you’ve submitted an EAP application.

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. For EAP appeals, you can mail your request to: Appeals Community Programs Manager – EAP, 30 South Meridian St, Suite 900, Indianapolis, IN 46204.

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 local programs that may help.

Warning Signs and Reality Checks

Red Flags to Avoid

Housing scams are common: A flyer has been circulating on social media advertising assistance with applying for Section 8 funding. The flyer and website ‘www.govassistance[dot]org’ are NOT legitimate. 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 and unpredictable funding: Programs can be suspended suddenly – as happened with IERA in March 2025. All assistance programs have more applicants than available help.

Geographic restrictions: IHCDA doesn’t serve Indianapolis/Marion County, and some programs only serve specific counties or regions.

Long wait times: Section 8 wait times can exceed 24 months, and many waiting lists are closed entirely.

Paperwork requirements: Missing documentation is the most common reason for delays. Gather all required documents before applying.

Tips for Success

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

Contact your township trustee: This is often overlooked but can provide immediate emergency assistance.

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.

Use 2-1-1 as your first stop: 2-1-1 can connect you to the most current local resources and alert you to new programs.

Additional Resources

Indiana State Agencies

Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA)

Indiana Family and Social Services Administration

Federal Resources

HUD Customer Service

  • General housing information and discrimination complaints
  • Phone: 800-569-4287
  • Website: hud.gov

USDA Rural Development Indiana

Legal Aid

Indiana Legal Services

Indiana Legal Help

Fair Housing Center of Central Indiana

Statewide Resources

Indiana 2-1-1

  • 24/7 referral service for all types of assistance
  • Phone: 2-1-1 or 866-211-9966
  • Text: Text your ZIP code to 898-211
  • Website: in211.org

IndianaHousingNow.org

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 Indiana guide represents over 5 years of experience helping single mothers navigate the benefits system. We verify information with official sources including Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority, Indiana Family and Social Services Administration, USDA, HUD, and local nonprofits to ensure accuracy.

Information compiled from official Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority, Indiana Family and Social Services Administration, USDA, HUD, and Community Action Agency 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

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