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housing assistance in ohio

Housing Assistance for Single Mothers in Ohio

Complete Housing Assistance Guide for Single Mothers in Ohio

Last updated: August 2025

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


Main Points

  • Emergency rental assistance is available through local Community Action Agencies and nonprofits across all 88 Ohio counties
  • Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers help pay up to 70% of rent, but waiting lists are 23 months long on average
  • Save the Dream Ohio provides mortgage assistance through September 2025 for pandemic-related hardships
  • LIHEAP energy assistance provides $41 to $811 annually for heating bills plus up to $1,200 for crisis situations
  • Income limits vary by county – most programs serve families earning 30-80% 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 or visit ohio.211.org.

Can’t pay utilities? Contact your local Community Action Agency for crisis utility assistance up to $500.

Need rent help now? Apply through local Community Action Agencies for emergency rental assistance – they serve all Ohio counties.

In danger? Ohio Domestic Violence Network: (800) 934-9840 or National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233

Emergency Housing Assistance

Community Action Agencies Emergency Assistance

Ohio’s Community Action Agencies serve all 88 counties and provide the primary source of emergency housing assistance since federal Emergency Rental Assistance programs concluded. These agencies receive funding from various sources including TANF, CSBG, and local funds.

What they cover:

  • Up to 3-6 months of past-due rent (varies by agency and funding)
  • Security deposits and first month’s rent for new housing
  • Utility deposits and emergency utility payments
  • Moving costs in some counties
  • Hotel vouchers for temporary shelter

Income requirements: Generally serves households at or below 150-200% of Federal Poverty Level, with priority given to families with children under 18.

How to apply: Contact your local Community Action Agency directly. Each county has a designated agency handling emergency assistance applications.

Processing time: Applications are typically processed within 1-2 weeks, but funding availability varies by county and season.

Reality check: Funding is extremely limited and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. According to the Ohio Association of Community Action Agencies, agencies often exhaust their emergency assistance funds by mid-year. Don’t wait if you’re facing eviction – apply immediately.

CHN Housing Partners (Northeast Ohio)

CHN Housing Partners provides rental assistance specifically for Cleveland residents and those moving into Cleveland.

What it covers:

  • Security deposits for new housing
  • Up to 3 months of future rent payments
  • Housing navigation services

Eligibility:

  • Cleveland residents or moving to Cleveland
  • Household income at or below 80% AMI
  • At risk of housing instability due to rent increases, eviction, or unsafe housing

Contact: (833) 377-7368

Franklin County Emergency Assistance

Franklin County Department of Job and Family Services operates the Prevention, Retention and Contingency (PRC) program.

Services:

  • One-time rental assistance
  • Utility assistance
  • Emergency motel vouchers
  • Security deposits

Eligibility: Low-income families facing unexpected challenges with focus on family stabilization.

2-1-1 Ohio

Call 2-1-1 or visit ohio.211.org for immediate referrals to emergency assistance in your area. Available 24/7 in multiple languages.

Long-Term Housing Programs

Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)

The Housing Choice Voucher program is the federal government’s largest rental assistance program. In Ohio, 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 $29,850 – $44,900 $17,900 – $26,950
2 people $34,100 – $51,300 $20,450 – $30,800
3 people $38,350 – $57,700 $23,000 – $34,650
4 people $42,600 – $64,100 $25,550 – $38,450

Note: Income limits vary significantly by county and metropolitan area. These figures represent ranges across Ohio counties. 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 18-36 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: According to Affordable Housing Online data, Ohio households spend an average of 23 months on waiting lists before receiving vouchers. Many housing authorities close their waiting lists when they have more applicants than they can serve. As of August 2025, only 21 of 76 Ohio housing authorities have open waiting lists.

Fair Market Rents (2025)

Source: HUD Fair Market Rents FY2025

Area 1 BR 2 BR 3 BR 4 BR
Columbus $798 $991 $1,280 $1,559
Cleveland $696 $871 $1,133 $1,314
Cincinnati $691 $862 $1,131 $1,357
Dayton $592 $743 $967 $1,148
Toledo $576 $728 $941 $1,127
Akron $629 $781 $1,019 $1,219

These are maximum amounts Section 8 will pay toward rent in each metro 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 Public Housing Authorities:

Pros:

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

Cons:

  • Limited locations and high demand
  • Long waiting lists similar to Section 8
  • Less choice in neighborhoods

Ohio Housing Finance Agency Programs

Save the Dream Ohio Mortgage Assistance

Save the Dream Ohio provides mortgage assistance to homeowners experiencing pandemic-related hardships. The program runs through September 30, 2025.

What it covers:

  • Delinquent mortgage payments
  • Up to 6 months of future mortgage payments
  • Property taxes and homeowners insurance
  • HOA fees and other housing costs

Eligibility:

  • Experienced financial hardship after January 21, 2020
  • Household income at or below 150% AMI (approximately $147,600 for family of four)
  • Primary residence in Ohio

How to apply: Visit savethedream.ohiohome.org or call (888) 404-4674

First-Time Homebuyer Programs

OHFA offers several homeownership programs with changes effective July 1, 2025:

Down Payment Assistance:

  • 3% assistance for conventional loans
  • 3.5% assistance for FHA, VA, USDA loans
  • Must be first-time homebuyer
  • Income limits apply based on county

Your Choice! Loan Program:

  • Below-market interest rates
  • Available statewide
  • Works with down payment assistance

Utility Assistance Programs

Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP)

HEAP provides eligible Ohioans assistance with home energy bills through the federally funded LIHEAP program.

Benefits Available (2025)

Source: LIHEAP Clearinghouse Ohio Profile

Benefit Type Regular Assistance Winter Crisis Summer Crisis
Amount Range $41 – $811 Up to $1,200 Up to $800
Period Oct 1 – May 31 Nov 1 – Mar 31 Jul 1 – Sep 30

Income Eligibility (175% Federal Poverty Level)

Source: Ohio LIHEAP Income Guidelines 2025

Household Size Maximum Annual Income
1 person $26,973
2 people $36,482
3 people $45,991
4 people $55,500
5 people $65,009

Application periods:

  • Regular heating assistance: October 1 – May 31, 2025
  • Winter crisis assistance: November 1 – March 31, 2025
  • Summer crisis assistance: July 1 – September 30, 2025

Required documents:

  • Photo ID for utility account holder
  • Social Security cards for all household members
  • Recent utility bills or disconnect notices
  • Proof of income for past 30 days (12 months for self-employed)

How to apply: Contact your local Community Action Agency. Do not apply directly to state agencies.

Percentage of Income Payment Plan Plus (PIPP+)

PIPP+ helps eligible Ohioans manage energy bills year-round by setting payments based on household income.

How it works:

  • Gas heating: 5% of monthly income for gas, 5% for electric
  • Electric heating: 10% of monthly income total
  • Minimum payment: $10 per month
  • Outstanding balance forgiven after 24 on-time payments

Eligibility: Generally same as HEAP (175% Federal Poverty Level)

Benefits:

  • Consistent monthly payments year-round
  • Protection from service disconnection
  • Arrearage forgiveness program

Homeownership Programs

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 premium reductions available

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

USDA Rural Development Programs

For properties in rural areas (about 97% of Ohio counties qualify):

  • No down payment required
  • Below-market interest rates
  • Income limits apply (generally 115% of median area income)

Contact: USDA Rural Development Ohio Office: (614) 255-2400

Specialized Housing Resources

Transitional Housing Programs

Amethyst (Columbus)

Amethyst provides transitional housing for women and children fleeing domestic violence.

Services:

  • Safe housing for up to 24 months
  • Case management and counseling
  • Job training and education support
  • Childcare assistance

Contact: (614) 725-1910

YWCA Transitional Housing Programs

YWCAs throughout Ohio offer transitional housing programs for single mothers:

Domestic Violence Housing

Ohio Domestic Violence Network

24/7 Hotline: (800) 934-9840

Safe housing options include:

  • Emergency shelter
  • Transitional housing programs
  • Rapid rehousing assistance
  • Safety planning and legal advocacy

Legal Aid for Housing Issues

Legal Aid Society of Columbus: (614) 224-8374 Legal Aid of Western Ohio: (419) 724-0456 Community Legal Aid (Northeast Ohio): (216) 687-1900

Inclusive Housing Resources

LGBTQ+ Single Mothers

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

Local resources:

  • Equality Ohio: Advocacy and resource referrals
  • Kaleidoscope Youth Center (Columbus): Support for LGBTQ+ youth and families
  • 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

Ohio 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 offer the most comprehensive rural housing assistance
  • Ohio’s Community Action Agencies provide outreach services to rural areas
  • Ohio Association of Community Action Agencies coordinates rural service delivery
  • Some agencies provide gas cards or transportation vouchers for essential appointments

Transportation assistance:

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 fathers should emphasize any special circumstances (disabilities, young children) when applying for priority assistance

Resources by Region

Central Ohio (Columbus Metro)

Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority

  • Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
  • Public housing
  • Address: 880 E. 11th Ave, Columbus, OH 43211
  • Phone: (833) 378-2220

Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission

  • Aging and disability services
  • Transportation assistance
  • Phone: (614) 233-4170

Northeast Ohio (Cleveland Metro)

Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority

  • Section 8 and public housing programs
  • Address: 8120 Kinsman Rd, Cleveland, OH 44104
  • Phone: (216) 661-1300

CHN Housing Partners

  • Rental assistance and housing navigation
  • Address: 3711 Chester Ave., Suite 100, Cleveland, OH 44114
  • Phone: (216) 574-7100

Southwest Ohio (Cincinnati Metro)

Cincinnati Metropolitan Housing Authority

  • Housing assistance programs
  • Address: 1077 Celestial St, Cincinnati, OH 45202
  • Phone: (513) 977-7300

Legal Aid Society of Southwest Ohio

  • Housing legal assistance
  • Phone: (513) 241-9400

Northwest Ohio (Toledo Metro)

Lucas Metropolitan Housing Authority

  • Section 8 and public housing
  • Address: 201 Belmont Ave, Toledo, OH 43604
  • Phone: (419) 259-9446

Pathway Inc.

  • Community Action Agency services
  • Phone: (567) 354-0202

Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)

How long do I have to wait for Section 8?

According to Affordable Housing Online data, waiting times vary dramatically by location:

  • Urban areas (Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati): 24-36 months
  • Mid-size cities (Dayton, Toledo, Akron): 18-24 months
  • Small cities/rural areas: 6-18 months
  • Statewide average: 23 months

Many housing authorities close their waiting lists when they become too long. As of August 2025, only 21 of 76 Ohio housing authorities have open waiting lists.

Can I get help if I’m working?

Yes! Most programs have income limits rather than requiring unemployment. According to 2025 HUD income limits, a single mother with two children can earn up to approximately $38,350-$57,700 annually (depending on county) and still qualify for very low-income housing programs.

What if my landlord won’t accept Section 8?

Ohio 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 search HUD’s housing database.

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

Keep detailed records of all work. Get written statements from employers when possible. Community Action Agencies and housing counselors can help you document irregular income. Consider opening a bank account to create a paper trail of deposits.

What if I have bad credit or an eviction?

Many emergency assistance programs don’t require credit checks. For Section 8, housing authorities consider your explanation of negative history. Having stable income and references can help overcome past credit issues. Some agencies offer credit counseling services.

What happens if I make too much money after getting assistance?

Most programs conduct annual income reviews. If your income increases above program limits, you’ll typically have a phase-out period. This is actually progress toward self-sufficiency, which is the goal of these programs.

Can I get help moving from another state?

Section 8 vouchers are portable between states through the “portability” process. You must be issued a voucher in your current state first, then request a transfer. The process can take several months, so plan ahead.

What if I’m undocumented?

Federal housing programs require legal immigration status, but emergency assistance through Community Action Agencies may be available. Some local programs provide help regardless of status. Contact 2-1-1 for guidance on available resources.

How do I appeal if I’m denied?

Every program has an appeals process. You’ll receive written notice explaining denial reasons and how to request a hearing. Don’t miss deadlines – usually 10-14 days from denial notice. Free legal aid may be available to help with appeals.

What if I have a disability?

Many programs give priority to households with disabilities. You may qualify for additional assistance through Section 811 housing or Ohio’s 811 Project Rental Assistance Program. Contact your housing authority about reasonable accommodations.

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. Be suspicious of anyone guaranteeing immediate housing assistance.

Fake landlords: Verify property ownership before paying deposits. Never send money without seeing the actual unit and meeting the landlord in person.

“Priority” services: No legitimate service can guarantee you’ll get housing assistance or move ahead of others on waiting lists.

Common Challenges

Limited funding: Ohio faces a shortage of 264,000 affordable rental homes according to recent reports. All assistance programs have more applicants than available help.

Geographic barriers: Rural areas may have limited transportation to service locations. Ask about mobile services or virtual appointments.

Documentation requirements: Missing paperwork delays applications. Gather documents before applying and keep organized files.

Long processing times: Emergency assistance can take 1-2 weeks. Section 8 takes years. Plan accordingly and apply to multiple programs simultaneously.

Tips for Success

Apply broadly: Don’t limit yourself to one county or program. Apply to multiple housing authorities if you’re willing to relocate.

Stay organized: Keep copies of all applications and correspondence. Follow up monthly on application status.

Be honest: Provide accurate information about your situation. Programs are designed to help people facing difficulties.

Get professional help: HUD-approved housing counselors provide free assistance with applications and housing searches.

Document everything: Keep records of all interactions with agencies, including names, dates, and what was discussed.

Additional Resources

Ohio State Agencies

Ohio Department of Commerce – Division of Community Development

Ohio Department of Job and Family Services

  • TANF, SNAP, Medicaid applications
  • Phone: (1-844-640-6446)
  • Website: jfs.ohio.gov

Federal Resources

HUD Customer Service

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

USDA Rural Development

  • Rural housing programs
  • Phone: (614) 255-2400
  • Website: rd.usda.gov

Legal Aid

Ohio State Legal Services Association

  • Free legal help for housing issues
  • Website: oslsa.org
  • Provides referrals to regional legal aid organizations

Ohio Poverty Law Center

Financial Counseling

Ohio Housing Finance Agency Find HUD-approved housing counselors throughout Ohio to help with:

  • Budgeting and credit repair
  • Homebuyer education
  • Rental assistance applications
  • Foreclosure prevention

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

Information compiled from official Ohio Housing Finance Agency, Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, HUD, and local housing authority 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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