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housing assistance in maryland

Housing Assistance for Single Mothers in Maryland

Last Updated on August 27, 2025 by Rachel

Complete Housing Assistance Guide for Single Mothers in Maryland

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 and local shelter information.

Can’t pay utilities? Contact the Maryland Office of Home Energy Programs at (800) 332-6347 for crisis utility assistance up to $600.

Need rent help now? Apply through your local Emergency Rental Assistance program – each county has different providers.

In danger? Maryland Network Against Domestic Violence hotline: (800) 634-3577 or National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233

Emergency Housing Assistance

Emergency Assistance to Families with Children (EAFC)

Emergency Assistance to Families with Children provides emergency cash assistance to families who need emergency help paying rent or utilities. This program is administered by local departments of social services and can be a lifeline when facing eviction.

What it covers:

  • Emergency rent payments to prevent eviction
  • Utility payments to prevent shut-offs
  • Security deposits for new housing
  • Moving expenses in emergency situations

Income requirements: Must have children under 21 and present proof of emergency that was not caused by voluntarily quitting a job. Apply at your local Department of Social Services or online through MarylandBenefits.gov.

How to apply: Applications can be submitted in person, by mail, fax, or online. You must provide proof of emergency (eviction notice, utility shut-off notice), proof of income, Social Security numbers for all household members, and current household expenses.

Processing time: Emergency applications are typically processed within 24-48 hours for urgent situations.

Reality check: EAFC funds are limited and available only once every two years per family. Don’t wait if you’re facing eviction – apply immediately. Funding availability varies by county and season, with some counties running out of funds before the fiscal year ends.

Emergency Rental Assistance Programs

Maryland’s Emergency Rental Assistance programs are administered at the local level through county governments and community organizations. Each county has different application processes and funding availability.

What they cover:

  • Past-due rent back to April 2020 (for COVID-related programs)
  • Current rent payments (typically 3-12 months)
  • Utility arrearages and current bills
  • Court costs and legal fees related to eviction

Priority given to:

How to apply: Contact your county’s designated provider through 2-1-1 Maryland or visit your county government website for specific application information.

Reality check: Many Emergency Rental Assistance programs have closed or have limited funding as of August 2025. Prince George’s County ERAP closed to new applications on May 31, 2025, though existing applications are still being processed.

2-1-1 Maryland

Call 2-1-1 or visit 211md.org for immediate referrals to emergency assistance in your area. This free service connects you with local resources including emergency shelters, rental assistance, food programs, and utility help.

Long-Term Housing Programs

Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)

The Housing Choice Voucher program is the federal government’s largest rental assistance program. In Maryland, eligible 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 State Income Limits Report FY2025

Household Size Very Low Income (50% AMI) Extremely Low Income (30% AMI)
1 person $46,100 $27,650
2 people $52,700 $31,600
3 people $59,300 $35,550
4 people $65,850 $39,500
5 people $71,150 $42,700

Note: These are statewide limits. Metropolitan areas like Washington DC and Baltimore have higher limits.

Priority groups:

Application process:

  1. Find your local Public Housing Authority using HUD’s locator tool
  2. Complete application when waiting list opens (check Affordable Housing Online for current openings)
  3. Provide required documentation: income verification, ID, Social Security cards, rental history
  4. Complete eligibility interview and background check
  5. Wait for voucher availability
  6. Attend voucher briefing session
  7. Find qualifying rental unit within 60-120 days
  8. Pass housing quality standards inspection before move-in

Reality check: According to Affordable Housing Online, households spend an average of 38 months on a waiting list before receiving a voucher in Maryland. As of July 2025, only 3 Maryland housing authorities currently have open Section 8 waiting lists. Urban areas like Baltimore City can have waiting lists that stretch beyond three years.

Fair Market Rents (2025)

Source: HUD Fair Market Rents 2025

Area 1 BR 2 BR 3 BR 4 BR
Baltimore Metro $1,145 $1,347 $1,685 $1,961
Washington Metro $1,717 $2,024 $2,520 $2,865
Cumberland $638 $779 $1,035 $1,247
Salisbury $726 $893 $1,167 $1,329

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.

Major housing authorities in Maryland:

Pros:

  • Below-market rent based on income
  • Stable housing with on-site management
  • Some properties offer supportive services and after-school programs

Cons:

  • Limited locations and unit availability
  • Long waiting lists similar to Section 8
  • Less choice in neighborhoods compared to voucher program

Reality check: Public housing has the same long waiting lists as Section 8, but may be available sooner in some areas. Contact your local housing authority to compare waiting times for public housing versus vouchers.

Maryland State Rental Assistance Programs

Maryland Rental Allowance Program (RAP)

The Rental Allowance Program provides a 12-month subsidy to low-income persons who are homeless or have a critical housing need. This state program is administered by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development in rural areas.

What it provides:

  • Monthly rental assistance for up to 12 months
  • Security deposit assistance
  • Utility assistance in some cases

Eligibility:

  • Homeless or facing imminent homelessness
  • Income at or below 50% Area Median Income
  • Residing in areas served by DHCD (primarily Eastern Shore and Western Maryland)

How to apply: Contact the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development at (410) 514-7000 to determine if this program serves your area.

Statewide Rental Assistance Voucher Program

This program provides vouchers and housing assistance payments for low-income families currently on federal Housing Choice Voucher waiting lists.

Priority for single mothers: Priority is given to families that include a minor child, foster children between 18-24, veterans, individuals experiencing homelessness, disabled individuals, or elderly individuals.

Duration: Housing assistance payments can continue for up to 5 years or until the family becomes eligible for the federal Housing Choice Voucher Program.

Utility Assistance Programs

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

LIHEAP helps eligible households pay heating and cooling bills through the Maryland Office of Home Energy Programs. This federal program is Maryland’s primary utility assistance resource.

Benefits Available (FY2025)

Source: LIHEAP Clearinghouse Maryland Profile

Benefit Type Amount
Heating Assistance $25 minimum, $750 maximum
Crisis Assistance Up to $600
Arrearage Retirement Assistance Up to $2,000 electric, $1,000 gas

Income Eligibility (200% Federal Poverty Level)

Source: Maryland Office of Home Energy Programs

Household Size Maximum Annual Income
1 person $31,200
2 people $42,120
3 people $53,040
4 people $63,960
5 people $74,880

Available Programs:

Maryland Energy Assistance Program (MEAP): Helps with heating bills – payments made directly to fuel suppliers and utility companies.

Electric Universal Service Program (EUSP): Provides assistance with electric bills for customers with incomes at or below 150% Federal Poverty Level.

Arrearage Retirement Assistance: Helps customers with large, past due electric and gas bills – up to $2,000 for electric and $1,000 for gas bills. Must have past due bill of $300 or greater.

Utility Service Protection Program (USPP): Protects low-income families from utility shut-offs during heating season. Requires budget billing participation.

Application process:

  • Applications accepted year-round
  • Can only receive benefits once per federal fiscal year (October-September)
  • Must reapply each year
  • Priority given to households with elderly members, young children, or members with disabilities

Required documents:

  • Photo ID for utility account holder
  • Social Security cards for all household members
  • Recent utility bills showing amounts due
  • Proof of income for all household members 18 and older

How to apply: Call the Maryland Office of Home Energy Programs at (800) 332-6347 or apply online through MarylandBenefits.gov.

Processing time: Typically 2-4 weeks after complete application submission.

Electric Universal Service Program (EUSP) and Utility Company Programs

Maryland utilities offer several assistance programs beyond LIHEAP:

Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE):

Pepco:

Washington Gas:

  • Residential Essential Service (RES) for LIHEAP-eligible customers
  • Deposit and reconnection fee waivers

Homeownership Programs

Maryland Mortgage Program (MMP)

The Maryland Mortgage Program has been supporting homebuyers for over 40 years with low-interest loans and down payment assistance.

Down Payment Assistance Options (2025)

The Maryland Mortgage Program offers several down payment assistance options, with amounts ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 or 3-6% of the loan amount.

Program Name Assistance Amount Type Repayment Terms
1st Time Advantage 6000 $6,000 Deferred loan No payments until sale/refinance
Flex 5000 $5,000 Deferred loan No payments until sale/refinance
1st Time Advantage 3% 3% of mortgage amount Deferred loan Zero interest
HomeStart 6% 6% of mortgage amount Deferred loan For households under 50% AMI

Key requirements:

  • Must use Maryland Mortgage Program lender (80+ participating lenders)
  • Complete homebuyer education course
  • Meet income limits (vary by county)
  • Property must be in Maryland

Specialized Programs

Maryland SmartBuy 3.0: Provides up to 15% of home purchase price (maximum $20,000) to pay off student debt for eligible homebuyers with at least $1,000 in student loans.

HomeAbility: Assists buyers with disabilities with up to $45,000 in down payment support through interest-free, deferred loans.

Local Homebuyer Programs

Baltimore City Programs

Baltimore City offers several homeownership incentive programs through the Department of Housing & Community Development.

Buying Into Baltimore: $5,000 five-year forgivable loan for down payment and closing costs.

Live Near Your Work: City matches employer contributions between $1,000-$2,500 for total incentives up to $5,000+.

Prince George’s County

Pathway to Purchase provides 0% interest, deferred payment loans that are forgiven after 10 years. Available funds as of August 2025: $154,434.

Gaithersburg

Gaithersburg Homebuyer Assistance Loan Program (GHALP) provides $12,000-$25,000 in down payment assistance for purchases within city limits.

Federal Loan Programs

FHA Loans: 3.5% down payment, credit scores as low as 580 accepted.

VA Loans: No down payment for eligible veterans and service members.

USDA Rural Development Loans: No down payment for eligible rural areas in Maryland.

Specialized Housing Resources

Transitional and Supportive Housing

House of Ruth Maryland

House of Ruth provides shelter and transitional housing for domestic violence survivors. Services include an 84-bed emergency shelter and transitional apartments.

Emergency Shelter:

  • Safe, temporary refuge for women and children in immediate danger
  • Up to 30 days initial stay, with extensions available
  • 24-hour staffing and supportive services
  • Childcare center on-site

Extended Stay Program:

  • Six-apartment transitional facility with subsidized rent
  • Stays from 6 months to 2 years maximum
  • Supportive services including counseling, legal aid, and job training
  • Secure, confidential location

Counties served: Primarily Baltimore City and surrounding areas

Women’s Housing Coalition

The Women’s Housing Coalition serves formerly homeless individuals and families with disabilities. Programs include permanent supportive housing with wraparound services.

Services:

  • Case management and resident advocacy
  • Life skills training tailored to individual needs
  • Assistance accessing benefits and healthcare
  • Housing for individuals and families

Domestic Violence Housing

Maryland Network Against Domestic Violence (MNADV)

24/7 Hotline: (800) 634-3577

MNADV coordinates statewide domestic violence services including emergency shelter, transitional housing, and permanent housing assistance.

Services available:

  • Emergency shelter placement
  • Safety planning and crisis intervention
  • Transitional housing referrals
  • Legal advocacy and court accompaniment
  • Economic empowerment programs

Transitional housing: Extended stays ranging from 6 months to 2 years with supportive services. Contact local domestic violence organizations for availability and application processes.

Inclusive Housing Resources

LGBTQ+ Single Mothers

While Maryland has limited LGBTQ+-specific housing programs, several resources provide affirming support:

Local resources:

  • CASA Ruby (Washington Metro area): Provides housing and services to LGBTQ+ individuals and families
  • Chase Brexton Health Care: Offers housing referrals and support services for LGBTQ+ families
  • Maryland LGBT Chamber of Commerce: Professional networking and resource connections

National resources:

  • National LGBTQ Task Force: Housing discrimination information and advocacy
  • SAGE (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders): Senior housing resources for older LGBTQ+ adults

Housing rights: Maryland’s Fair Housing Law prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Contact the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights at (410) 767-8600 to report discrimination.

Tribal-Specific Resources

Maryland 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:

  • Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development: Serves rural areas where no local housing authority exists
  • USDA Rural Development programs: Available in eligible rural areas throughout Maryland
  • Community Action Agencies: Provide outreach services to rural communities

Transportation assistance:

  • Contact local Community Action Agencies for transportation vouchers
  • Some agencies provide gas cards for essential appointments
  • Maryland Transit Administration offers reduced-fare programs for low-income residents

Service delivery:

  • Many agencies offer mobile services or home visits in rural areas
  • Telehealth and virtual support services increasingly available
  • 2-1-1 Maryland provides phone-based resource navigation

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 for stay-at-home fathers
  • Single Father Network: Online community and local meetups
  • Father Engagement Initiative: Some Maryland counties offer specific programming for fathers

Resources by Region

Baltimore Metro Area

Housing Authority of Baltimore City

  • Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
  • Public housing units
  • Homeownership programs
  • Address: 417 E. Fayette St., Baltimore, MD 21202
  • Phone: (410) 396-3434

Baltimore County Department of Housing and Community Development

Washington Metro Area (Montgomery, Prince George’s, Calvert, Charles, Frederick Counties)

Housing Opportunities Commission of Montgomery County

Housing Authority of Prince George’s County

Eastern Shore

Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (Eastern Shore Office)

  • Serves Caroline, Dorchester, Kent, Somerset, Talbot, Wicomico, and Worcester Counties
  • Housing Choice Vouchers where no local housing authority exists
  • Maryland Rental Allowance Program
  • Phone: (410) 514-7000

Tri-County Council for the Lower Eastern Shore

  • Housing assistance for Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester Counties
  • Emergency assistance programs
  • Phone: (410) 742-1179

Western Maryland

Allegany County Department of Housing and Community Development

  • Housing Choice Vouchers for Allegany County
  • Cumberland area programs
  • Phone: (301) 777-5954

Washington County Department of Housing and Community Development

  • Hagerstown area housing programs
  • Emergency assistance
  • Phone: (240) 313-2580

Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)

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

According to Affordable Housing Online data, households spend an average of 38 months on a waiting list before receiving a voucher in Maryland. Urban areas like Baltimore City can have waiting lists that stretch beyond three years, while rural areas may process applications faster. As of July 2025, only 3 Maryland housing authorities have open Section 8 waiting lists.

Can I get help if I’m working in Maryland?

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 $59,300 annually and still qualify for very low-income housing programs in Maryland. Some programs serve families earning up to 80% AMI.

What if my landlord won’t accept Section 8 in Maryland?

Maryland does not have statewide source of income discrimination laws, so landlords can legally refuse Section 8 vouchers in most areas. However, Montgomery County and Baltimore City have local ordinances prohibiting this discrimination. Contact your housing authority for lists of participating landlords or search Maryland Housing Search.

Can I combine different assistance programs in Maryland?

Yes, you can often combine programs. For example, you might use Section 8 for rent, LIHEAP for utilities, and SNAP for food – as long as you meet each program’s requirements. Emergency Assistance to Families with Children can be combined with other programs but has a two-year waiting period between uses.

What if I have bad credit or an eviction in Maryland?

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. Some housing authorities have programs specifically for families with rental history challenges.

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

Keep detailed records of all work and income. Get written statements from employers, even for cash work. Maryland requires verification of all income sources for assistance programs. A HUD-approved housing counselor can help you document irregular income properly.

What if I’m undocumented?

Most federal housing programs require legal immigration status, but Emergency Assistance to Families with Children may be available regardless of immigration status if you have U.S. citizen children. Local programs also provide help. Contact 2-1-1 Maryland for guidance on available resources.

Can I transfer my Section 8 voucher to Maryland from another state?

Section 8 vouchers are portable – you can transfer them between states through the “portability” process. Contact your current housing authority before moving to begin the transfer process. You must notify both your current housing authority and the receiving Maryland housing authority.

What if I need help right now and can’t wait for Section 8?

Contact 2-1-1 Maryland immediately for emergency resources. Apply for Emergency Assistance to Families with Children if you have an eviction notice. Look into transitional housing programs, emergency shelters, and local emergency rental assistance programs that may have shorter processing times.

How do I appeal if I’m denied assistance in Maryland?

Every program has an appeals process. You’ll receive written notice of denial with information about requesting a hearing. For state programs, contact the Maryland Department of Human Services for appeal procedures. For federal programs, contact your local housing authority. Don’t miss the deadline – usually 10-14 days from the denial date.

Warning Signs and Reality Checks

Red Flags to Avoid

Housing scams are common in Maryland: Never pay fees to apply for Section 8 or public housing. Government programs are free to apply for. Be especially wary in high-demand areas like Montgomery County and Baltimore.

Fake emergency assistance: Scammers often target people in crisis. Only apply through official government websites or verified nonprofit organizations. 2-1-1 Maryland provides verified referrals.

“Guaranteed” vouchers: 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. Many Emergency Rental Assistance programs have closed or have limited funding as of August 2025.

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

Long processing times: Even emergency programs can take weeks to process. Apply as early as possible and to multiple programs simultaneously.

Documentation requirements: Missing paperwork is the most common reason for delays. Gather documents in advance including ID, Social Security cards, proof of income, and housing expenses.

Tips for Success

Apply to multiple programs simultaneously: Don’t wait to be denied by one program before applying to others. Maryland has county-level programs with different funding and requirements.

Keep copies of everything: Maintain organized files of all applications, documents, and correspondence. Maryland agencies may request the same documents multiple times.

Follow up regularly: Call agencies monthly to check on application status. Provide any additional information requested promptly.

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

Know your rights: Maryland has fair housing laws that protect against discrimination. Contact the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights at (410) 767-8600 to report discrimination.

Additional Resources

Maryland State Agencies

Maryland Department of Human Services

Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development

Federal Resources

HUD Customer Service

Maryland HUD Field Office

Legal Aid

Maryland Legal Aid

  • Free legal help for housing issues
  • Eviction defense and tenant rights
  • Phone: (410) 539-5340

Pro Bono Resource Center of Maryland

  • Legal assistance for low-income families
  • Housing law clinics
  • Phone: (410) 837-9379

Financial Counseling

Maryland CASH Campaign

  • Free tax preparation and financial counseling
  • Homebuyer education and foreclosure prevention
  • Multiple locations statewide

Consumer Credit Counseling Service of Maryland and Delaware

  • Debt counseling and budgeting assistance
  • Housing counseling services
  • Phone: (800) 642-2227

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

Information compiled from official Maryland Department of Human Services, Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, HUD, and local 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 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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