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housing assistance in utah

Housing Assistance for Single Mothers in Utah

Complete Housing Assistance Guide for Single Mothers in Utah

Last updated: August 2025

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


Main Points

  • Emergency rental assistance is available through Utah Community Action and local Community Action Agencies statewide
  • Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) help pay up to 70% of rent, but waiting lists are 12-36 months long in urban areas
  • Utah Housing Corporation FirstHome loans offer below-market rates with up to 6% down payment assistance for qualifying single mothers
  • HEAT utility assistance provides $190-$850 for heating/cooling bills and up to $2,000 for energy crises
  • Income limits vary by county – most programs serve families earning 30-80% of area median income
  • Multiple programs can be combined for maximum assistance, and Utah has specialized transitional housing for single mothers

If You Need Help Today

Facing eviction or homeless? Call the Utah Homeless Services Hotline at 801-990-9999 immediately for emergency shelter and assistance.

Can’t pay utilities? Contact Utah Community Action HEAT Program at (801) 359-2444 for crisis utility assistance up to $2,000.

Need rent help now? Apply through Utah Emergency Assistance Program – provides one-time assistance to prevent eviction.

In danger? Utah Domestic Violence Coalition: (800) 897-5465 or National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233

Emergency Housing Assistance

Utah Emergency Assistance Program

Utah Emergency Assistance provides immediate help for families facing homelessness or utility shutoffs due to crisis situations beyond their control. This is a state-administered program through Utah Department of Workforce Services that offers one-time assistance per 12-month period.

What it covers:

  • Rent payments to prevent eviction
  • Security deposits for new housing
  • Mortgage payments to prevent foreclosure
  • Utility payments to prevent shutoffs
  • Referrals to legal services

Income requirements: Monthly household income cannot exceed 185% of the Standard Needs Budget based on household size. Check current income limits on the program website.

Asset limit: Total household assets cannot exceed $2,000, including immediately available possessions for all family members.

How to apply: Contact your local Department of Workforce Services office to apply in person. Applications require documentation of the crisis, income verification, and proof that you’ve attempted other solutions.

Reality check: This program requires that the family show they can manage future payments after the crisis is resolved. You must demonstrate that a single payment will solve your housing crisis and that you have a plan for ongoing expenses.

Utah Community Action Emergency Assistance

Utah Community Action provides emergency rental and utility assistance throughout Salt Lake and Tooele Counties. They serve as a crucial safety net for families facing immediate housing crises.

Services include:

  • Emergency rental assistance
  • Utility crisis intervention
  • Case management and budgeting assistance
  • Referrals to other community resources

Contact: (801) 359-2444 or visit utahca.org

Processing time: Emergency applications can take 6-8 weeks to process, which underscores the importance of applying immediately when facing a crisis.

2-1-1 Utah

Call 2-1-1 or visit utah211.org for immediate referrals to emergency assistance in your area, including emergency shelter, food assistance, and crisis intervention services.

Long-Term Housing Programs

Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)

The Housing Choice Voucher program helps very low-income families afford safe, decent housing in the private market. In Utah, eligible families typically pay 30% of their adjusted 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) Salt Lake Very Low Income (50% AMI) Statewide Average
1 person $40,450 $35,200
2 people $46,200 $40,200
3 people $51,950 $45,250
4 people $57,700 $50,250

Income limits vary significantly by county. Contact 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. Check current waiting list status as many close periodically
  2. Apply through Salt Lake Centralized Waiting List or your local housing authority
  3. Provide income verification, Social Security cards, and rental history
  4. Wait for voucher availability (see realistic timeframes below)
  5. Attend voucher briefing when selected
  6. Find qualifying rental unit within 90 days
  7. Pass housing quality standards inspection before move-in

Reality check: According to Utah housing authorities, waiting times vary dramatically:

  • Salt Lake County: 24-36 months
  • Utah County: 18-24 months
  • Rural areas: 6-18 months
  • Statewide average: 18-30 months

Many housing authorities close their waiting lists when they exceed manageable numbers. Utah currently has 8 open Section 8 waiting lists, but availability changes frequently.

Fair Market Rents (2025)

Source: HUD Fair Market Rents FY2025

Area 1 BR 2 BR 3 BR 4 BR
Salt Lake City $1,123 $1,390 $1,823 $2,298
Provo-Orem $1,098 $1,365 $1,789 $2,258
Ogden $943 $1,165 $1,523 $1,923
St. George $1,238 $1,535 $2,008 $2,535

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 set at 30% of adjusted income.

Pros:

  • Often less expensive than Section 8 in high-cost areas
  • Stable housing with on-site management
  • Some properties offer supportive services
  • Utilities may be included

Cons:

  • Limited locations and unit availability
  • Long waiting lists (often longer than Section 8)
  • Less neighborhood choice

Utility Assistance Programs

Home Energy Assistance Target (HEAT) Program

The HEAT Program is Utah’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), providing year-round energy assistance for eligible households.

Benefits Available (FY2025)

Source: Utah LIHEAP Data

Benefit Type Amount Range Crisis Maximum
Regular HEAT $190-$850 N/A
Crisis HEAT Up to $2,000 $2,000

Income Eligibility (150% Federal Poverty Level)

Source: HEAT Program Guidelines

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

Application periods:

  • Priority applications (elderly 60+, disabled, children under 6): October 1 – September 30
  • General public: November 1 – September 30
  • Crisis assistance: Available year-round

Processing time: Allow 6-8 weeks for regular applications; crisis applications may be expedited with 48-hour shutoff notice.

Required documents:

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

How to apply:

Additional Utility Programs

Dominion Energy Energy Assistance Fund (EAF)

Qualified HEAT recipients automatically receive a $107 credit on their Dominion Energy bill.

Rocky Mountain Power Home Electric Lifeline Program (HELP)

HEAT-qualified customers may receive monthly credits on their Rocky Mountain Power bills. Contact (801) 961-7286 for more information.

Homeownership Programs

Utah Housing Corporation Programs

Utah Housing Corporation (UHC) is the state’s housing finance agency, offering multiple first-time homebuyer programs with below-market interest rates and down payment assistance.

FirstHome Loan Program

Benefits:

  • Lowest available UHC interest rates
  • Up to 6% of loan amount for down payment assistance
  • No monthly payment on down payment assistance loan
  • 30-year fixed-rate mortgage

Eligibility:

  • First-time homebuyers or haven’t owned home in Utah for 3 years
  • Qualifying single parents and veterans may have exceptions
  • Minimum credit score: 660
  • Income and purchase price limits vary by county

Down payment assistance: Up to 6% of primary mortgage amount or $27,500, whichever is less. This is provided as a second mortgage with interest rate 1% higher than primary mortgage.

Utah First-Time Homebuyers Assistance Program

This state-funded program provides up to $20,000 for new construction homes.

Key features:

  • 0% interest, no monthly payments
  • For new construction homes under $450,000
  • Must be Utah resident for at least one year
  • Repayment only upon sale or refinancing

Income and Purchase Price Limits (2025)

Source: Utah Housing Corporation

County 1-2 Person Household 3+ Person Household Purchase Limit
Salt Lake $82,800 $115,900 $435,500
Utah $79,200 $110,900 $428,000
Weber $77,400 $108,400 $421,500
Davis $85,500 $119,700 $449,000

USDA Rural Housing Programs

Section 502 Direct Loans

USDA provides direct loans for eligible rural areas with no down payment required.

Current benefits:

  • No down payment required
  • Below-market interest rates (rates vary)
  • Payment assistance available to reduce monthly payments
  • Up to 38 years for qualifying very low-income applicants

Eligibility:

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

Utah USDA Offices:

FHA and VA Loans

FHA Loans:

  • Down payment as low as 3.5%
  • Credit scores as low as 580 accepted
  • Available through any FHA-approved lender

VA Loans (for Veterans):

  • No down payment required
  • No private mortgage insurance
  • Competitive interest rates
  • Available to eligible veterans and spouses

Specialized Housing Resources

Transitional Housing Programs

LifeStart Village (Salt Lake County)

LifeStart Village is a comprehensive transitional housing program specifically designed for single-parent families.

Program features:

  • Phase I: Dorm-style housing for up to 22 families with intensive case management
  • Phase II: Independent townhomes and cottages for 15 families
  • Program length: Up to 24 months total
  • Services: Life skills training, GED assistance, job placement, financial education, parenting classes

Eligibility requirements:

  • Single parent with at least 50% custody of child under 12 (for Phase I)
  • Substance-free for minimum 6 months prior to application
  • Some form of income required
  • Commitment to full program participation

Contact: Family Support Center

The Road Home Programs

The Road Home operates multiple housing programs throughout Salt Lake County.

Services include:

  • Rapid Re-housing: Quick placement into permanent housing with rental assistance and case management
  • Permanent Supportive Housing: Long-term affordable housing with ongoing support services
  • Family Assistance and Support Team (FAST): Enhanced services for families needing additional support beyond rapid re-housing

How to apply: Call (801) 359-4142 or visit theroadhome.org

Domestic Violence Housing

Utah Domestic Violence Coalition

24/7 Crisis Line: (800) 897-5465

Safe housing options for survivors include:

  • Emergency shelter placement
  • Transitional housing programs
  • Rapid rehousing assistance with rental subsidies
  • Safety planning and legal advocacy

Inclusive Housing Resources

LGBTQ+ Single Mothers

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

Local resources:

  • Equality Utah: Provides advocacy and resource referrals at (801) 539-8800
  • Utah Pride Center: Offers support services and resource navigation at (801) 539-8800

Housing strategy: When applying for mainstream programs, focus on income qualifications rather than family composition. All federal housing programs are required to serve LGBTQ+ families without discrimination.

Tribal-Specific Resources

Utah has limited tribal land, but Native American families can access:

Available programs:

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

Specialized resources:

  • USDA Rural Development: Extensive programs described above with no down payment options
  • Rural Community Action Agencies: Provide outreach services and mobile assistance
  • Telehealth services: Available through Utah Department of Health for support services

Transportation assistance:

  • Contact local Community Action Agencies for transportation vouchers
  • Some agencies provide gas cards for housing-related appointments
  • Rural transit systems may offer reduced fares for low-income families

Single Fathers

Single fathers face similar housing challenges and can access all the same programs described in this guide.

Additional resources:

  • National At-Home Dad Network: Online support and local meetups
  • Single Father Network: Community support and resource sharing
  • Utah Fatherhood Initiative: (801) 538-4317 for support services

Resources by Region

Salt Lake County

Utah Community Action

  • HEAT program, emergency assistance, weatherization
  • Address: 850 W 1700 S Suite #4, Salt Lake City, UT 84104
  • Phone: (801) 359-2444
  • Website: utahca.org

Housing Connect (Housing Authority of Salt Lake County)

Utah County

Housing Authority of Utah County

  • Section 8 vouchers, public housing programs
  • Address: 1776 N Research Parkway #150, North Logan, UT 84341
  • Phone: (801) 373-8333
  • Website: housinguc.org

Mountainlands Community Action Program

  • Emergency assistance, weatherization, family services
  • Phone: (801) 229-3800

Northern Utah (Weber, Davis, Morgan Counties)

Futures Through Training

Bear River Regional Housing Authority

Southern Utah

Five County Association of Governments

  • Community action services, housing assistance
  • Phone: (435) 673-3548
  • Counties served: Washington, Iron, Kane, Garfield, Beaver

Rural Utah

Uintah Basin Association of Governments

  • Rural housing assistance, community development
  • Phone: (435) 722-4518
  • Counties served: Uintah, Daggett, Duchesne

Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)

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

According to current data from Utah housing authorities, waiting times vary significantly:

  • Salt Lake County: 24-36 months typically, but some applicants wait longer
  • Utah County: 18-24 months average
  • Rural counties: 6-18 months, but fewer vouchers available
  • Priority groups (homeless, disabled, elderly) may have shorter waits

Many housing authorities close their waiting lists periodically. Check current status before applying.

Can I qualify for programs if I work full-time?

Yes! Most programs have income limits rather than employment restrictions. According to 2025 HUD guidelines, a single mother with two children in Salt Lake County can typically earn up to $51,950 annually (50% AMI) and still qualify for very low-income housing programs.

What if I can’t find a landlord who accepts Section 8?

Utah does not have laws prohibiting source of income discrimination, so landlords can legally refuse Section 8. However, strategies include:

  • Contact your housing authority for lists of participating landlords
  • Use GoSection8.com to find Section 8-friendly rentals
  • Consider areas with more rental competition where landlords may be more flexible
  • Ask your housing case worker about landlord incentive programs

Can I combine different assistance programs?

Yes, you can often combine programs. For example:

  • HEAT for utilities + Section 8 for rent + SNAP for food
  • Emergency assistance for immediate crisis + Section 8 application for long-term housing
  • Utah Housing Corporation mortgage + down payment assistance + utility help

Each program has its own requirements, so you’ll need to qualify for each individually.

What if I have bad credit or a past eviction?

For emergency programs: Most don’t have strict credit requirements since they focus on immediate crisis intervention.

For Section 8: Housing authorities may consider negative history but often allow explanations, especially if you can demonstrate changed circumstances. Previous evictions don’t automatically disqualify you.

For homeownership programs: Utah Housing Corporation’s Score Loan program is designed for borrowers with credit challenges, requiring only a 660 minimum credit score.

How do I document income if I’m paid in cash or work multiple part-time jobs?

  • Keep detailed written records of all work and earnings
  • Get written statements from employers, even for cash work
  • Bank statements showing regular deposits
  • Tax returns and 1099s when available
  • Your case worker can help you document irregular income properly

What help is available if I’m undocumented?

Most federal programs require legal status, but some assistance may be available:

  • Emergency services through Community Action Agencies may not check status
  • Some local church and nonprofit programs don’t have citizenship requirements
  • Emergency medical care and certain emergency services are available regardless of status
  • Contact 2-1-1 for guidance on available resources

Can I move my Section 8 voucher to Utah from another state?

Yes, through the “portability” process. Contact your current housing authority before moving to initiate the transfer. The receiving Utah housing authority will administer your voucher, but you’ll need to find housing that meets their requirements.

What happens if my income increases while I’m receiving assistance?

Section 8: Your rent portion will increase, but you’ll have time to adjust. If income exceeds program limits, you may transition off the program.

Emergency programs: One-time assistance isn’t affected by future income changes.

Homeownership programs: Income increases after closing generally don’t affect your loan terms.

How do I appeal if I’m denied assistance?

Every program has an appeals process:

  • You’ll receive written notice of denial with appeal instructions
  • Appeals are typically due within 10-14 days of the denial date
  • You can request an informal hearing to present additional information
  • Free legal help may be available through Utah Legal Services at (800) 662-4245

Warning Signs and Reality Checks

Red Flags to Avoid

Housing scams are common in Utah’s competitive market:

  • Never pay application fees for Section 8 or public housing (government programs are free)
  • Be wary of rental listings requiring money before viewing properties
  • No legitimate service can guarantee you housing assistance or priority placement

Fake rental listings: With Utah’s housing shortage, scammers target desperate families. Always verify property ownership and never wire money.

Common Challenges in Utah

High housing costs: Utah’s median home value exceeds national averages, making both rental and ownership challenging even with assistance.

Limited affordable rental stock: Section 8 vouchers are only valuable if you can find participating landlords willing to rent to voucher holders.

Transportation barriers: Many assistance programs require multiple in-person visits, which can be challenging without reliable transportation.

Documentation requirements: Utah programs often require extensive paperwork. Missing documents are the most common cause of delays.

Tips for Success in Utah

Apply to multiple programs simultaneously: Don’t wait for denial from one program before applying to others, especially given long waiting lists.

Understand Utah’s seasonal patterns: Some programs like HEAT have specific application periods, while housing applications may move faster in winter months.

Build relationships with case workers: Consistent communication and follow-up can help move your applications forward.

Consider rural options: Housing assistance may be more readily available in smaller Utah communities, though job opportunities may be more limited.

Get help navigating the system: Contact a HUD-approved housing counselor for free assistance. Utah has several agencies offering housing counseling services.

Additional Resources

Utah State Agencies

Utah Department of Workforce Services

Utah Department of Health and Human Services

Federal Resources

HUD Utah Field Office

  • Section 8, Fair Housing, general housing information
  • Phone: (801) 524-3421
  • Address: 451 S State Street, Suite 1001, Salt Lake City, UT 84111

USDA Rural Development Utah

Legal Aid

Utah Legal Services

Disability Law Center

Financial Counseling

Utah Housing Corporation

Consumer Credit Counseling Service

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

Information compiled from official Utah Department of Workforce Services, Utah Housing Corporation, 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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