Housing Assistance for Single Mothers in Kentucky

Complete Housing Assistance Guide for Single Mothers in Kentucky

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 providers across all 120 Kentucky counties
Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) help pay up to 70% of rent, but waiting lists are 18-36 months long in urban areas
USDA rural home loans offer 5.125% interest rates with no down payment for eligible areas
LIHEAP utility assistance provides fixed amounts of $294 per year in seven monthly installments of $42
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. Press 6 for homeless services.

Can’t pay utilities? Contact your local Community Action Agency for crisis utility assistance – LIHEAP Crisis enrollment extended until March 31, 2025.

Need rent help now? Apply through Emergency Solutions Grant providers – they serve all Kentucky counties.

In danger? Kentucky Coalition Against Domestic Violence: (502) 209-5382 or National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233

Emergency Housing Assistance

Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) Program

The Emergency Solutions Grant gives money to emergency shelters and community programs that help people who are homeless or are at risk of becoming homeless. The program is administered by the Kentucky Housing Corporation and provides funding to local agencies to prevent homelessness and help families transition to permanent housing.

What it covers:

Up to 3 months of past-due rent (varies by provider)
Security deposits and first month’s rent for new housing
Utility deposits and payments
Moving costs and temporary storage
Case management services

Income requirements: Generally serves households at or below 30% of Area Median Income, with priority given to extremely low-income families and those experiencing homelessness.

How to apply: Call KHC at 502-564-7630 for information or contact your local Emergency Solutions Grant provider through Kentucky Housing Corporation.

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

Reality check: Funding is limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. ESG providers often have waiting lists during high-demand periods. Don’t wait if you’re facing eviction – apply immediately.

Team Kentucky Eviction Diversion Program

This program gives eligible Kentucky families cash assistance to pay their rent if they fall behind because of a financial hardship. It can also pay utilities. Families may receive up to 12 months of payments equal to their past-due rent or utilities and up to three months of future rent and utility payments.

Important update: Due to limitations on funding from U.S. Treasury, KYEDP stopped accepting applications on Tuesday, April 1, 2025.

Alternative assistance: Contact your local Community Action Agency for current emergency rental assistance programs that may be available in your county.

Community Action Agency Crisis Assistance

Kentucky has 23 Community Action Agencies serving all 120 counties. These agencies provide emergency assistance including rental help, utility payments, and basic needs support through Community Action Kentucky.

Example programs:

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

Contact: Visit Community Action Kentucky to find your local agency.

2-1-1 Kentucky

Call 2-1-1 or visit kentucky211.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 Kentucky, applicants’ household income must be at or below 50% of the median income for the area. Recipients typically pay 30% of their income towards rent, while the program covers the remaining cost, up to a set limit based on local Fair Market Rent (FMR) values.

Income Eligibility (2025)

The income limits for a low-income household range from $31,650 for a family of one to $59,650 for a family of eight.

Family Size	Very Low Income (50% AMI)	Extremely Low Income (30% AMI)
1 person	$31,650	$18,990
2 people	$36,150	$21,690
3 people	$40,650	$24,390
4 people	$45,150	$27,090

Note: Income limits vary by county and metropolitan area. These figures represent statewide 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:

Contact your local Public Housing Authority or Kentucky Housing Corporation
Complete application 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)
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: Getting approved for Section 8 housing in Kentucky takes different amounts of time, depending on where you live. Urban Areas: Waiting lists of 2-4 years in larger cities like Louisville. Smaller Towns: Typically shorter waiting periods but fewer available vouchers.

Fair Market Rents (2025)

Source: HUD Fair Market Rents FY2025

Area	1 BR	2 BR	3 BR	4 BR
Louisville	$721	$887	$1,156	$1,398
Lexington	$714	$893	$1,141	$1,398
Bowling Green	$621	$771	$1,001	$1,201
Owensboro	$598	$743	$967	$1,201

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

USDA Rural Housing Programs

Section 502 Direct Loans

The USDA Section 502 program assists low- and very-low-income applicants obtain decent, safe and sanitary housing in eligible rural areas by providing payment assistance to increase an applicant’s repayment ability.

Current rates: Effective August 1, 2025, the current interest rate for Single Family Housing Direct home loans is 5.125% for low-income and very low-income borrowers. Interest rate when modified by payment assistance, can be as low as 1%.

Loan terms: Up to 33 year payback period – 38 year payback period for very low income applicants who can’t afford the 33 year loan term

Down payment: No down payment is typically required. Applicants with assets higher than the asset limits may be required to use a portion of those assets.

Eligibility requirements:

Adjusted income at or below low-income limits for the area
Unable to obtain conventional financing on reasonable terms
Property must be in USDA-eligible rural area
U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
Demonstrate willingness and ability to repay debt

How to apply: Contact your regional USDA Rural Development office. Processing times vary depending on funding availability and program demand in the area in which an applicant is interested in buying and completeness of the application package.

Section 504 Home Repair Loans and Grants

This provides loans to very-low-income homeowners to repair, improve or modernize their homes or grants to elderly very-low-income homeowners to remove health and safety hazards.

Loans: Up to $40,000 at 1% interest for 20 years Grants: Up to $10,000 lifetime limit (must be 62+ years old) Combined assistance: Up to $50,000 total

Utility Assistance Programs

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

Kentucky LIHEAP assists eligible Kentucky residents and families with their heating and cooling costs through two different programs: Subsidy and Crisis. The program is administered by Community Action Kentucky in partnership with the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services.

Benefits Available (FY2025)

Eligible household will receive a fixed amount of $294 per year in seven monthly installments of $42 that are applied to the current bill.

Component	When Available	Maximum Benefit	Requirements
Subsidy	November-December	$294 fixed amount	Income at/below 150% FPL
Crisis	January-March 31	Up to $400	Past due notice required
Spring	April-May (if funded)	Varies	Income eligibility
Summer	July-September	Varies	Electric assistance only

Income Eligibility

Income eligibility for the program is up to and including 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

Household Size	Maximum Annual Income (150% FPL)
1 person	$22,590
2 people	$30,660
3 people	$38,730
4 people	$46,800
5 people	$54,870

Application periods:

Subsidy: Usually begins in early November and runs approximately five to six weeks
Crisis: Extended until March 31, 2025

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 (for Crisis)
Proof of income for previous month for all household members 18+

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

Homeownership Programs

Kentucky Housing Corporation (KHC) Programs

KHC has made homeownership possible for more than 82,000 Kentucky families through various programs:

Down Payment Assistance: KHC offers down payment and closing assistance in the form of a 10-year second mortgage that is repayable with a 3.75% interest rate. Eligible borrowers have access to loan amounts of up to $10,000.

Affordable Down Payment Assistance: The KHC Affordable DAP is designed with lower-income buyers in mind. Eligible borrowers can obtain a repayable 10-year second mortgage of up to $7,500 with a low 1% interest rate.

Mortgage Revenue Bond Program: Below-market interest rates for qualified buyers

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

The Healing Place (Louisville)

The Healing Place provides transitional housing and recovery services for individuals and families.

Services include:

Emergency shelter
Transitional housing for up to 2 years
Case management and life skills training
Job training and education support
Childcare assistance

Volunteers of America Mid-States

Operates transitional housing programs across Kentucky for families experiencing homelessness.

Programs:

Emergency shelter
Transitional family housing
Supportive services and case management
Rapid rehousing assistance

Domestic Violence Housing

Kentucky Coalition Against Domestic Violence

24/7 Hotline: (502) 209-5382

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

Local support:

Kentucky Equality Federation: Advocacy and resource referrals
Fairness Campaign (Louisville): Community support and resources
Contact 2-1-1 and specifically ask about LGBTQ+-affirming housing providers

National resources:

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

Tribal-Specific Resources

Kentucky 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)
Kentucky’s 23 Community Action Agencies provide outreach services to all 120 counties
Mobile service delivery in some counties
Telehealth and virtual support services

Transportation assistance:

Contact local Community Action Agencies for transportation vouchers
Some agencies provide gas cards for essential appointments
Rural transportation programs through local aging councils

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
Kentucky Fatherhood Initiative: Support services for fathers

Resources by Region

Northern Kentucky (Cincinnati Metro)

Northern Kentucky Community Action Commission

LIHEAP utility assistance
Emergency rental assistance
Weatherization programs
Phone: (859) 581-6434

Housing Authority of Covington

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
Public housing
Address: 2017 Greenup St, Covington, KY 41014

Louisville Metro

Louisville Metro Housing Authority

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
Public housing programs
Phone: (502) 569-3400
Website: lmha1.org

Louisville Metro Office of Resilience and Community Services

LIHEAP assistance
EWRAP wastewater discount program
Phone: (502) 991-8391

Lexington-Fayette County

Community Action Council

LIHEAP assistance
Emergency rental help
Housing counseling
Phone: (859) 300-6960
Website: commaction.org

Western Kentucky

Community Action of Southern Kentucky

LIHEAP programs
Emergency assistance
Weatherization
Phone: (270) 782-3162

Eastern Kentucky

Kentucky River Foothills Community Action Partnership

Energy assistance programs
Emergency services
Phone: (859) 544-1713
Counties: Bath, Bourbon, Fleming, Harrison, Mason, Montgomery, Nicholas, Robertson, Rowan

Central Kentucky

Bluegrass Community Action Partnership

LIHEAP assistance
Emergency services
Housing programs
Counties: Anderson, Boyle, Franklin, Jessamine, Lincoln, Mercer, Washington, Woodford

Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)

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

Getting approved for Section 8 housing in Kentucky takes different amounts of time, depending on where you live. Urban Areas: Waiting lists of 2-4 years in larger cities like Louisville. Smaller Towns: Typically shorter waiting periods but fewer available vouchers.

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. Priority is given to families experiencing homelessness, those with disabilities, and elderly households.

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

Yes! Most programs have income limits rather than requiring unemployment. Working families often qualify if their income is below 50-80% of the area median income. For example, a single mother with two children working full-time at minimum wage would likely qualify for most assistance programs.

What if my landlord won’t accept Section 8?

Kentucky 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 HUD’s housing search tools. Some housing authorities offer landlord incentive programs to encourage participation.

How much will LIHEAP help with my electric bill?

Eligible households receive a fixed amount of $294 per year in seven monthly installments of $42 that are applied to the current bill. This is for the regular subsidy program. Crisis assistance may provide additional help up to $400 for gas or electric emergencies.

Can I apply for LIHEAP if I already got help this year?

Assistance in prior LIHEAP components does not impact a household’s eligibility. You can apply for different LIHEAP programs (subsidy, crisis, spring, summer) as long as you meet the income requirements for each.

What if I have bad credit or an eviction?

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. Focus on programs that prioritize need over credit history.

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

Keep detailed records of all work and income. Get pay stubs from all employers, even for temporary work. Your local housing counselor can help you document irregular income properly. Some agencies accept self-certification for very low incomes.

What happens if I make too much money 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, and some programs help you plan for this transition.

Can I get help moving from another state?

Section 8 vouchers are portable – you can transfer them between states through the “portability” process. Contact your current housing authority to begin the transfer process before moving. Other programs may require Kentucky residency.

What if I don’t have legal immigration status?

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 available resources.

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.

Long waiting lists: Urban areas: Waiting lists of 2-4 years in larger cities like Louisville. Don’t wait – apply now even if the wait is long.

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.

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

Kentucky State Agencies

Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services

KTAP, SNAP, Medicaid applications
Phone: (855) 306-8959
Online: benefind.ky.gov

Kentucky Housing Corporation

Housing programs administration
Section 8 vouchers
Phone: (502) 564-7630
Website: kyhousing.org

Federal Resources

HUD Customer Service

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

USDA Rural Development

Rural housing and home repair programs
Phone: (800) 670-6553
Website: rd.usda.gov

Legal Aid

Legal Aid Society

Free legal help for housing issues
Eviction defense
Phone: (800) 292-1862
Website: laslou.org

Kentucky Justice Online

Housing law assistance
Tenant rights information
Website: kyjustice.org

Financial Counseling

Kentucky Housing Corporation Counseling Programs Find a certified housing counselor to help with budgeting, credit repair, and homebuyer education through KHC’s counseling network.

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 Kentucky guide represents over 5 years of experience helping single mothers navigate the benefits system. We verify information with official sources including Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Kentucky Housing Corporation, USDA, and HHS to ensure accuracy.

Information compiled from official Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Kentucky Housing Corporation, 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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