Fact Sheet: Here's How the Housing Choice Voucher Program Can Lower Your Housing & Utility Costs this 2025

If high rent and utility bills are making it hard to stay afloat, the Housing Choice Voucher Program could be the relief you need.

This federal program helps low-income families, seniors, and disabled individuals afford safe housing while keeping essential costs like electricity, water, and gas more manageable.
 

How Do Housing Vouchers Help with Utility Costs?

• The voucher covers part of your rent, which frees up money to help pay for electricity, water, heating, and other utility expenses.
• Some PHAs offer additional utility assistance to help cover rising energy costs.
• If your rent includes utilities, your voucher amount may be adjusted to reflect that.

Not sure what financial aid is available to you? Get the details here!

 

Who Qualifies?

• U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens
• Low-income households (must earn below 50% of the median income in your area)
• Preference is given to families earning less than 30% of the median income
• Seniors, disabled individuals, and families with children may get priority

Example of Housing Assistance Calculation

The amount of housing assistance depends on household income and rent costs.

The Public Housing Agency (PHA) calculates the subsidy based on 30% of the household’s adjusted monthly income and the payment standard for the area.

Example 1: Family of 3 in a $1,500/month Rental Unit

• Household Monthly Income: $3,000
• 30% of Monthly Income: $900
• PHA Payment Standard for Area: $1,400
• Housing Voucher Covers: $1,400 - $900 = $500
• Tenant Pays: $1,000 per month

Example 2: Senior Living Alone in a $1,200/month Apartment

• Household Monthly Income: $1,800
• 30% of Monthly Income: $540
• PHA Payment Standard for Area: $1,200
• Housing Voucher Covers: $1,200 - $540 = $660
• Tenant Pays: $540 per month

How to Apply?

1. Find your local Public Housing Agency (PHA) – Use HUD’s tool here.
2. Submit an application – The PHA will verify your income, assets, and household size.
3. Wait for approval – Many areas have long waitlists due to high demand.
4. Receive your voucher – Once approved, you can use it for rental housing that meets program guidelines.

How Much Help Can You Get?

• You typically pay 30% of your adjusted income toward rent and utilities.
• The voucher covers the rest—helping you stretch your paycheck further.
• Some PHAs offer additional assistance for utilities in high-cost areas.

Read: Extra $6,710 Social Security Cash in 2025: How Retroactive Payments Can Ease Utility Bills

 

Get the Relief You Deserve

Housing Choice Vouchers don’t just help with rent—they can free up cash for your utility bills, groceries, and other necessities.

If you’re struggling with expenses, check your eligibility and apply today!

Previous article: Bigger Social Security Checks: More Help for Utility Bills & Daily Expenses

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