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Housing Assistance for Single Mothers in Louisiana

Complete Housing Assistance Guide for Single Mothers in Louisiana

Last updated: August 2025

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


Main Points

If You Need Help Today

Facing eviction or homeless? Call 2-1-1 immediately for emergency assistance. Press 4 for homeless services.

Can’t pay utilities? Contact the Louisiana Housing Corporation for LIHEAP crisis assistance up to $1,000.

Need rent help now? Apply through your local Community Action Agency for emergency rental assistance programs.

In danger? Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence: (225) 752-1296 or National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233

Emergency Housing Assistance

Tenant-Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) Program

The TBRA program is Louisiana’s primary emergency rental assistance program, administered by the Louisiana Housing Corporation. This program serves individuals and families in need throughout the state.

What it covers:

  • Past-due rent payments (up to 3-6 months depending on funding availability)
  • Security deposits and first month’s rent for new housing
  • Utility deposits and payments
  • Moving costs in some cases
  • Case management services

Income requirements: Generally serves households at or below 80% of Area Median Income, with priority for those at 50% AMI or below.

How to apply: Contact the Louisiana Housing Corporation at (225) 763-8700 or apply through local Community Action Agencies.

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

Reality check: The Louisiana Emergency Rental Assistance Program (LERAP) closed in 2023 after distributing all federal COVID-19 relief funds. Current TBRA funding is more limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Don’t wait if you’re facing eviction – apply immediately.

Community Action Agencies

Louisiana has multiple Community Action Agencies serving all 64 parishes. These agencies provide emergency assistance including rental help, utility payments, and basic needs support.

Services include:

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

Contact: Visit the Louisiana Housing Corporation to find your local Community Action Agency.

2-1-1 Louisiana

Call 2-1-1 or visit 211.org for immediate referrals to emergency assistance in your area. Press 4 for homeless services.

Long-Term Housing Programs

Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)

The Housing Choice Voucher program is the federal government’s largest rental assistance program. In Louisiana, 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 $32,700 $19,620
2 people $37,350 $22,410
3 people $42,000 $25,200
4 people $46,650 $27,990

Note: Income limits vary by metropolitan area and parish. These figures represent statewide non-metropolitan 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:

  1. Contact your local Public Housing Authority
  2. Complete application when waiting list opens (check current status)
  3. Provide income verification, ID, Social Security cards, and rental history
  4. Complete eligibility interview and background check
  5. Wait for voucher availability (typically 20-36 months)
  6. Attend voucher briefing and receive Housing Choice Voucher
  7. Find qualifying rental unit within 60-120 days
  8. Pass housing quality standards inspection before move-in

Reality check: Louisiana households spend an average of 26 months on Section 8 waiting lists, with urban areas like New Orleans and Baton Rouge experiencing longer waits. Many housing authorities close their waiting lists when they have more applicants than they can serve. Only 5 housing authorities currently have open waiting lists statewide.

Fair Market Rents (2025)

Source: HUD Fair Market Rents FY2025

Area 1 BR 2 BR 3 BR 4 BR
New Orleans $977 $1,238 $1,564 $1,822
Baton Rouge $871 $1,049 $1,385 $1,625
Shreveport $655 $796 $1,071 $1,321
Lafayette $771 $929 $1,286 $1,486

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 helps low-income families buy homes in rural areas with no down payment required.

Current rates (effective July 1, 2025): 5.00% fixed interest rate, potentially reduced to as low as 1% with payment assistance subsidy.

Loan terms: Up to 33 years (38 years for very low-income applicants who cannot afford the 33-year term)

Payment assistance: Temporary subsidy available based on adjusted family income to reduce monthly payments. The subsidy amount decreases as income increases over time.

No down payment: Required for most applicants, though those with assets above program limits may need to contribute some funds.

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 by funding availability and application completeness.

USDA Rural Development Louisiana State Office 3727 Government Street Alexandria, LA 71302 Phone: (318) 473-7920

Section 504 Home Repair Loans and Grants

This program helps very low-income rural homeowners repair their homes.

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)

LIHEAP helps eligible households pay heating and cooling bills through local Community Action Agencies.

Benefits Available (FY2025)

Source: Louisiana LIHEAP State Plan FY2025

Benefit Type Regular Amount Crisis Amount Maximum
Heating $200 minimum Up to $1,000 $800
Cooling $200 minimum Up to $1,000 $800
Crisis N/A Up to $1,000 $1,000

Income Eligibility (60% State Median Income)

Source: Louisiana LIHEAP Income Guidelines FY2025

Household Size Maximum Annual Income
1 person $48,000
2 people $64,800
3 people $81,600
4 people $98,400
5 people $115,200

Application periods:

  • Heating assistance: November 15 – March 15
  • Cooling assistance: April 1 – September 30
  • Crisis assistance: Year-round

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

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: Contact your local Community Action Agency. Find your local provider through the Louisiana Housing Corporation.

Utility Company Assistance Programs

Entergy Louisiana Programs

The Power to Care

  • Helps low-income, elderly, or disabled customers pay energy bills
  • Phone: (800) 368-3749

Beat The Heat

  • Distributes thousands of fans during June to customers in need
  • Phone: (800) 368-3749

CLECO Power Programs

Power of Sharing Fund

  • Customer donations help elderly and disabled customers
  • Administered by Louisiana Association of Councils on Aging
  • Phone: (800) 622-6537

Homeownership Programs

Louisiana Housing Corporation Programs

The Louisiana Housing Corporation offers several first-time homebuyer programs:

Down Payment Assistance: Various programs offering assistance with down payments and closing costs MRB Homeownership Program: Below-market interest rates for qualified buyers First-Time Homebuyer Programs: Multiple options for eligible families

Contact: Louisiana Housing Corporation at (225) 763-8700

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

Unity of Greater New Orleans

Unity of Greater New Orleans operates comprehensive homeless services including transitional housing.

Services include:

  • Emergency shelter
  • Transitional housing
  • Rapid re-housing
  • Permanent supportive housing
  • Case management services

Contact: (504) 821-4496

Bridge to Self-Sufficiency Program

This program assists low-income families, especially single parents, to find safe transitional housing and overcome homelessness.

Services:

  • Long-term case management
  • Housing solutions and referrals
  • Support services for women

Domestic Violence Housing

Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence

24/7 Hotline: (225) 752-1296

Safe housing options for survivors of domestic violence, including:

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

Permanent Supportive Housing

The Louisiana Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) program combines affordable rental housing with voluntary support services for people with severe disabilities.

Eligibility:

  • Adults with developmental or adult-onset disabilities
  • Serious mental illness
  • Physical disabilities or behavioral health conditions
  • Income at or below 50% Area Median Income

Contact: Louisiana Department of Health at (504) 568-2774

Inclusive Housing Resources

LGBTQ+ Single Mothers

While Louisiana 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:

  • Forum for Equality Louisiana: Advocacy and resource referrals
  • Contact 2-1-1 and specifically ask about LGBTQ+-affirming housing providers

Tribal-Specific Resources

Louisiana has four federally recognized tribes that may have specific housing resources:

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

Louisiana Tribal Contacts:

  • Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana
  • Jena Band of Choctaw Indians
  • Pointe-au-Chien Indian Tribe
  • Tunica-Biloxi Indian Tribe

Rural Single Mothers with Limited Access

Rural families in Louisiana 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 parishes
  • Mobile service delivery in some areas
  • Telehealth and virtual support services

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

Southeast Louisiana (New Orleans Metro)

Housing Authority of New Orleans (HANO)

  • Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
  • Public housing
  • Mixed-income housing developments
  • Address: 1515 Poydras Street, New Orleans, LA 70112
  • Phone: (504) 670-3300

Unity of Greater New Orleans

  • Homeless prevention and services
  • Emergency assistance
  • Phone: (504) 821-4496

Capital Region (Baton Rouge Metro)

East Baton Rouge Parish Housing Authority

  • Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
  • Public housing
  • Homeownership programs
  • Phone: Contact through EBRPHA website

Capital Area Community Action Agency

  • LIHEAP utility assistance
  • Emergency rental assistance
  • Weatherization programs

North Louisiana (Shreveport-Monroe)

Housing Authority of the City of Shreveport

  • Section 8 vouchers
  • Public housing
  • Website: hacsla.com

Community Action Partnership of North Central Louisiana

  • Emergency assistance programs
  • Utility help
  • Food assistance

Southwest Louisiana (Lake Charles)

Calcasieu Parish Police Jury Housing Department

  • Section 8/Housing Choice Voucher Program
  • Applications accepted periodically (check calcasieu.gov)
  • Phone: Check parish website for current contact

Acadiana Region (Lafayette)

Lafayette Housing Authority

  • Public housing and voucher programs
  • Serves Lafayette and Vermilion Parishes
  • Website: thelha.com
  • Phone: Contact through website

Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)

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

According to current data, Louisiana households spend an average of 26 months on Section 8 waiting lists. Waiting times vary dramatically by location:

  • Urban areas (New Orleans, Baton Rouge): 24-40 months
  • Rural areas: 12-24 months
  • Statewide average: 26 months

Many housing authorities periodically close their waiting lists when they become too long. As of August 2025, only 5 housing authorities in Louisiana have open Section 8 waiting lists.

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 can typically earn up to about $42,000 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 my landlord won’t accept Section 8 vouchers?

Louisiana 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 Louisiana Housing Search to find voucher-friendly properties.

Are there programs specifically for hurricane recovery?

Yes, Louisiana has ongoing disaster recovery housing programs:

  • B.R. Rebuilds: For 2016 flood victims (some programs ongoing)
  • Blue Tarp Program: Recently closed as of July 2025
  • Disaster Housing Task Force: Coordinates long-term recovery efforts

Contact the Louisiana Housing Corporation for current disaster recovery programs.

Can I get help 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 and charitable organizations also provide help. Contact 2-1-1 for guidance.

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. For Section 8, you may need to pay more rent but can often keep the voucher if your income doesn’t exceed 80% AMI.

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. Contact Southeast Louisiana Legal Services for free legal help with appeals.

What if I have bad credit or an eviction on my record?

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. Some LIHTC properties and nonprofit housing may be more flexible.

Can I use Section 8 to buy a house?

Yes, some housing authorities offer Housing Choice Voucher Homeownership Programs. You must meet additional requirements including:

  • Stable income for at least one year
  • First-time homebuyer (in most cases)
  • Complete homeownership counseling
  • Pass inspection requirements

How do I find affordable childcare while working?

Louisiana offers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) which helps eligible families pay for childcare. You can also use the Quality Start app to find rated childcare centers. Call CCAP Household Eligibility at (877) 453-2721.

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 in Louisiana

Limited funding: Hurricane recovery and population loss have strained housing resources. Apply early and to multiple programs.

Geographic barriers: Rural parishes may have fewer services. Plan for transportation to urban areas if needed.

Paperwork requirements: Hurricane damage may have affected your documents. Ask agencies about alternative documentation.

Language barriers: Some areas have limited Spanish or other language services. Ask about interpretation services.

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. Consider digital copies due to hurricane risk.

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

Be honest about your situation: Programs are designed to help people in difficult circumstances, including disaster recovery.

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

Additional Resources

Louisiana State Agencies

Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services

Louisiana Housing Corporation

  • Primary housing assistance agency
  • Phone: (225) 763-8700
  • Website: lhc.la.gov

Federal Resources

HUD Customer Service

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

USDA Rural Development Louisiana

  • Rural housing and home repair programs
  • Phone: (318) 473-7920
  • Website: rd.usda.gov

Legal Aid

Southeast Louisiana Legal Services

  • Free legal help for housing issues
  • Eviction defense
  • Phone: (800) 349-0886
  • Website: slls.org

Louisiana Fair Housing Action Center

  • Housing discrimination assistance
  • Fair housing education
  • Website: lafairhousing.org

Financial Counseling

Louisiana Housing Corporation HUD-Approved Counselors Find a certified housing counselor through the HUD counselor locator or call (800) 569-4287.

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 Louisiana guide represents over 5 years of experience helping single mothers navigate the benefits system. We verify information with official sources including Louisiana Housing Corporation, Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services, USDA, and HUD to ensure accuracy.

Information compiled from official Louisiana Housing Corporation, Louisiana Department of Children & Family Services, USDA, and HUD 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.

Louisiana’s housing assistance landscape has been significantly impacted by natural disasters and population changes. Program availability and funding levels can change rapidly due to federal appropriations and disaster recovery needs.

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

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