Who qualifies
Very-low-income households (50% of area median income or less), at least one member age 62+.
What you get
Subsidized rental units in dedicated senior buildings. Rent is 30% of adjusted income. Buildings include service coordinators who connect residents to local senior services.
Tips that matter
Every Section 202 property has its own waitlist. Apply to multiple properties at once — don't wait for one. Waits range from 1–3 years in most metros.
How to apply
Find Section 202 properties at hud.gov/topics/rental_assistance/phprog or call HUD at 1-800-955-2232.
State-level help on top of this
Most states layer their own programs on top of this federal one — pharmacy assistance, property tax relief, state Medicaid waivers. Pick your state to see what's available where you live.