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housing assistance in north carolina

Housing Assistance for Single Mothers in North Carolina

Complete Housing Assistance Guide for Single Mothers in North Carolina

Last updated: August 2025

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


Main Points

  • Emergency housing help is available through Emergency Solutions Grant providers in all 100 North Carolina counties via NC 2-1-1
  • Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) help pay up to 70% of rent, but waiting lists range from 6 months to 3+ years depending on location
  • LIHEAP utility assistance provides one-time payments to help with heating and cooling bills for households earning up to 60% of state median income
  • Income limits vary by county – most programs serve families earning 50-80% of area median income, with priority for those under 30%
  • Multiple programs can be combined for maximum assistance, but funding is limited and distributed first-come, first-served
  • According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, fewer than 40 affordable homes exist for every 100 extremely low-income renters in North Carolina

If You Need Help Today

Facing eviction or homeless? Call 2-1-1 immediately for emergency assistance. Available 24/7 in most languages through NC 211.

Can’t pay utilities? Contact your local Department of Social Services for crisis utility assistance through LIHEAP.

Need rent help now? Emergency Solutions Grant providers serve all 100 counties – call 2-1-1 for your local contact.

In danger? North Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence: (919) 956-9124 or National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233

Emergency Housing Assistance

Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) Program

The Emergency Solutions Grant program provides funding through the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services to prevent homelessness, offer emergency shelter, and help families transition to permanent housing. The program operates in all 100 North Carolina counties through local government entities and nonprofit organizations.

What it covers:

  • Emergency rental assistance to prevent eviction
  • Security deposits and first month’s rent for new housing
  • Utility deposits and payments
  • Moving costs and temporary storage
  • Case management and housing stability services

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

How to apply: Contact NC 211 at 2-1-1 to find your local Emergency Solutions Grant provider. Each county has designated agencies that handle applications.

Processing time: Applications are typically processed within 1-3 weeks, but funding availability varies by county and season.

Reality check: ESG funding is limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. During high-demand periods, providers may have waiting lists. Don’t wait if you’re facing eviction – apply immediately and to multiple programs simultaneously.

Work First Emergency Assistance

North Carolina’s Work First program provides emergency assistance for families with urgent needs such as utility shut-offs or eviction notices. This is designed for specific, non-recurring episodes of need rather than ongoing support.

What it provides:

  • Emergency rental assistance to prevent eviction
  • Utility assistance to prevent shut-offs
  • Other emergency needs related to housing stability

Eligibility requirements:

  • Household must include a child living with a relative
  • Total household income must not exceed 200% of federal poverty level
  • Must demonstrate urgent need

How to apply: Contact your local Department of Social Services or apply online through the ePASS website.

NC 2-1-1 Emergency Resources

NC 2-1-1 is an information and referral service provided by United Way of North Carolina, available 24/7/365 in most languages. Call 2-1-1 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, helping very low-income families pay for private market housing. In North Carolina, 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 Varies by county Varies by county
2 people $35,000-$52,000* $21,000-$31,200*
3 people $39,400-$58,500* $23,600-$35,100*
4 people $43,750-$65,000* $26,250-$39,000*

Income limits vary significantly by county and metropolitan area. Check your local 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 status frequently)
  3. Provide income verification, ID, Social Security cards, and rental history
  4. Complete eligibility interview and background check
  5. Wait for voucher availability (typically 6 months to 3+ years)
  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: According to NC 211, many housing authorities have extensive waiting lists, with wait times varying dramatically by location. Urban areas like Charlotte and Raleigh often have longer waits (2-3 years) while rural areas may be 6-18 months. Many housing authorities close their waiting lists when they have more applicants than they can serve.

Fair Market Rents (2025)

Source: HUD Fair Market Rents FY2025

Metro Area 1 BR 2 BR 3 BR 4 BR
Charlotte-Concord $1,098 $1,271 $1,549 $1,823
Raleigh-Durham $1,194 $1,379 $1,729 $2,052
Greensboro-High Point $801 $978 $1,244 $1,456
Winston-Salem $785 $929 $1,196 $1,384
Wilmington $1,193 $1,398 $1,739 $2,065

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, with rent typically 30% of adjusted income. Utilities may be included depending on the property.

Pros:

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

Cons:

  • Limited locations and unit availability
  • Long waiting lists
  • Less choice in neighborhoods

How to apply: Contact your local Public Housing Authority directly for applications and waiting list information.

Utility Assistance Programs

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

LIHEAP helps eligible households pay heating and cooling bills through the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. This federally funded program provides one-time vendor payments to help with energy bills.

Income Eligibility (2025)

Source: NC DHHS Low-Income Services

Household Size Maximum Annual Income (60% State Median)
1 person Varies by program guidelines
2 people Contact local DSS for exact amounts
3 people Contact local DSS for exact amounts
4 people Contact local DSS for exact amounts

Application periods:

  • Winter heating assistance: Typically January – March
  • Summer cooling assistance: Typically July – September (varies by county)
  • Crisis assistance: Year-round for emergencies

What it covers:

  • One-time payment toward heating bills
  • Crisis assistance for utility shut-offs
  • Emergency repairs to heating/cooling systems (in some cases)

How to apply: Contact your local Department of Social Services. Applications are processed first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted.

Required documents:

  • Photo ID for utility account holder
  • Social Security cards for all household members
  • Recent utility bills
  • Proof of income for all household members 18+

Reality check: LIHEAP funding is limited and not guaranteed to be available when you apply. Apply early in the program year and don’t wait if you’re facing a utility shut-off.

Homeownership Programs

North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA) Programs

The North Carolina Housing Finance Agency offers several first-time homebuyer programs to help make homeownership more accessible.

Programs available:

  • 1st Home Advantage Program: Below-market interest rate loans
  • Down Payment Help Program: Up to $8,000 in down payment assistance
  • Mortgage Credit Certificate: Annual tax credits up to $2,000

Income requirements: Typically serve households earning up to 115% of area median income, with some programs having lower limits.

USDA Rural Housing Programs

Section 502 Direct Loans

USDA Section 502 loans help low-income families buy homes in rural areas with no down payment required.

Current rates: Fixed interest rates as low as 1% with payment assistance subsidy for eligible applicants.

Loan terms: Up to 38 years for qualified applicants

Eligibility requirements:

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

Section 504 Home Repair Loans and Grants

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

Available assistance:

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

Specialized Housing Resources

Transitional Housing Programs

Gracious Hands Housing (Charlotte Area)

Gracious Hands Housing provides transitional housing for women and children, offering therapy and support services to help residents transition back to independent living.

Services include:

  • Safe transitional housing
  • Therapeutic services for mothers and children
  • Life skills training
  • Case management support

Domestic Violence Housing

North Carolina Coalition Against Domestic Violence

24/7 Hotline: (919) 956-9124

Safe housing options for survivors of domestic violence, including:

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

Reality check: Domestic violence shelters often have limited space and may have waiting lists. Call the hotline immediately for assistance and safety planning, even if shelter space isn’t immediately available.

Inclusive Housing Resources

LGBTQ+ Single Mothers

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

National resources:

Local support:

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

Tribal-Specific Resources

North Carolina’s Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians operates housing programs for tribal members:

Cherokee Indian Housing Division:

  • Rental housing assistance
  • Homeownership programs
  • Housing rehabilitation services
  • Transitional housing assistance

Contact: (828) 359-6906

Reality check: Tribal housing programs serve enrolled members of federally recognized tribes. Non-tribal members should explore other options listed in this guide.

Rural Single Mothers with Limited Access

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

Specialized resources:

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:

  • Contact 2-1-1 for single father support groups and resources
  • Local faith-based organizations often provide family support services

Resources by Region

Western North Carolina (Asheville-Boone Area)

Land of Sky Regional Council

  • Emergency rental assistance
  • LIHEAP utility assistance
  • Housing counseling services
  • Phone: (828) 251-6622

Blue Ridge Community Action

  • Emergency assistance programs
  • Weatherization services
  • Phone: (828) 264-2421

Central North Carolina (Charlotte-Raleigh-Greensboro Triangle)

Charlotte Housing Authority

  • Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
  • Public housing
  • Phone: (704) 336-5183

Raleigh Housing Authority

  • Housing assistance programs
  • Homebuyer assistance
  • Website: rhanc.gov

Greensboro Housing Authority

  • Section 8 vouchers
  • Family self-sufficiency programs
  • Phone: (336) 274-4631

Eastern North Carolina (Wilmington-Greenville)

Cape Fear Council of Governments

  • Regional housing assistance
  • Emergency programs
  • Phone: (910) 395-4553

Mid-East Commission

  • Housing assistance coordination
  • Community development programs
  • Phone: (252) 946-8043

Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)

How long will I wait for Section 8 in North Carolina?

Wait times vary dramatically by location and housing authority:

  • Charlotte area: 2-4 years
  • Raleigh-Durham: 1-3 years
  • Smaller cities: 6-18 months
  • Rural counties: 6 months to 2 years

Many housing authorities close their waiting lists periodically. Check with your local housing authority for current status and apply to multiple jurisdictions if possible.

Can I get housing help if I work full-time?

Yes! Most programs have income limits rather than requiring unemployment. You can typically earn up to 50% of area median income for very low-income programs, or up to 80% AMI for moderate-income programs. For a family of three in Charlotte, this means earning up to approximately $29,300 (very low) or $46,900 (moderate) annually and still qualifying for assistance.

What if my landlord won’t take Section 8?

North Carolina does not have source of income discrimination laws, so landlords can legally refuse Section 8 vouchers. Contact your housing authority for lists of participating landlords, or search NCHousingSearch.org for voucher-friendly properties.

Can I get help with utilities and rent at the same time?

Yes, you can often combine programs. For example, you might receive LIHEAP assistance for utilities while applying for emergency rental help through ESG. Each program has its own eligibility requirements, but using one doesn’t typically disqualify you from others.

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 Section 8, housing authorities consider negative history but often allow explanations for circumstances beyond your control. Some programs specifically help people with housing barriers.

How do I prove my income if I work multiple jobs or get paid cash?

Keep detailed records of all work and income sources. Get written statements from employers, even for cash work. Bank deposit records, check stubs, and self-employment documentation all help establish income. Your local housing counselor can help you document irregular income properly.

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. This is actually progress toward self-sufficiency and many programs provide transition support.

Can I move from another state with my Section 8 voucher?

Section 8 vouchers are portable between states through the “portability” process. Contact your current housing authority to begin the transfer process before moving. The receiving housing authority may have different wait times and requirements.

What if I get denied for assistance?

Every program has an appeals process. You’ll receive written notice of denial with information about requesting a hearing. Don’t miss the deadline (usually 10-14 days). Consider getting help from a HUD-approved housing counselor for your appeal.

Are there programs specifically for single mothers?

While most housing programs serve all eligible families, some transitional housing programs specifically serve women with children. Contact 2-1-1 to ask about women-specific programs in your area.

Warning Signs and Reality Checks

Red Flags to Avoid

Housing scams are common: Never pay fees to apply for Section 8, public housing, or emergency assistance. Legitimate government programs are free to apply for.

Fake voucher offers: No one can guarantee you’ll receive housing assistance or move to the front of waiting lists. Be wary of anyone asking for money upfront.

Too-good-to-be-true rentals: Scammers often list properties at below-market rents to collect deposits before showing the unit.

Common Challenges

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

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

Transportation barriers: Many offices require in-person visits. Ask about virtual options or mobile services.

Wait times: Be prepared for long wait times and have backup plans while waiting for assistance.

Tips for Success

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

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

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

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

Be persistent but patient: The system is complex and underfunded, but help is available for those who keep trying.

Additional Resources

North Carolina State Agencies

NC Department of Health and Human Services

North Carolina Housing Finance Agency

Federal Resources

HUD Customer Service

USDA Rural Development

Legal Aid

Legal Aid of North Carolina

Pisgah Legal Services (Western NC)

  • Housing law assistance
  • Tenant rights information
  • Phone: (828) 489-0406

Financial Counseling

HUD-Approved Housing Counseling Agencies Find a certified housing counselor to help with budgeting, credit repair, and homebuyer education by calling (800) 569-4287 or visiting hud.gov/findacounselor.

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

Information compiled from official North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, North Carolina Housing Finance Agency, HUD, and other government 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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