You Have More Options Than You Think
Falling behind on rent in California does not have to mean losing your home. Between state programs, county funds, city emergency accounts, and nonprofit emergency assistance, most California renters who are struggling have at least one program they may qualify for. The key is to apply quickly and to multiple programs simultaneously.
Start Here: Dial 211
California’s 211 helpline is your fastest first step. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 211 connects you to local rental assistance programs specific to your county — including programs that may not be listed online. Operators speak multiple languages. Call, text, or visit 211.org.
Major Ongoing Assistance Programs
County Housing Authorities
Every California county operates some form of emergency rental assistance through its housing authority or Department of Social Services. Eligibility requirements vary, but most programs prioritize households below 80% of Area Median Income (AMI). Find your county housing authority at hcd.ca.gov.
LIHEAP — Utility Assistance
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a federally-funded program that helps low-income households pay gas and electric bills. Administered through the California Department of Community Services and Development. Apply at csd.ca.gov.
Nonprofit Emergency Funds
- Catholic Charities: Provides emergency rental assistance regardless of religion. Offices in most California counties
- Salvation Army: Emergency assistance at local offices. No faith requirement
- United Way / 211: Coordinates local emergency funds and referrals
- St. Vincent de Paul: Emergency assistance through local parish conferences
What Documentation You Will Need
Most programs require some or all of the following:
- Proof of income (pay stubs, tax return, benefit award letters)
- Proof of tenancy (signed lease or rental agreement)
- Documentation of financial hardship (job loss letter, medical bills, etc.)
- Landlord’s name, address, and contact information
- Amount of rent owed and how many months behind
- Government-issued photo ID
Can a Pending Application Stop an Eviction?
In some circumstances, yes. If you have applied for rental assistance and notified your landlord in writing, many courts will grant a continuance. California law has provided some protections for tenants with pending applications, though specific COVID-era protections have expired. Notify your landlord in writing of your application immediately — many landlords will pause the eviction process while waiting for payment.
Section 8 / Housing Choice Vouchers
The Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) program provides long-term rental subsidies for qualifying low-income households. Most counties have waitlists, but it is worth applying. Remember: since 2020, California landlords cannot refuse to accept Section 8 vouchers — source of income discrimination is illegal under SB 329.
If You Are Facing Eviction Right Now
If you have received an eviction notice or court summons, rental assistance alone may not be enough — you also need legal help. Free legal aid organizations in every California county can help you both pursue rental assistance and defend against eviction simultaneously. Contact your county’s legal aid organization today.