After getting out of prison, finding housing for felons is one of the biggest challenges that every felon has to face. Landlords often refuse to rent to those with a criminal record due to perceived risks.
The good news is that housing assistance for felons is available. Government and Nonprofit programs are available to help felons to find affordable housing or get financial assistance for released prisoners to pay their rent.
This article provides an in-depth look at various housing assistance options for released inmates along with tips for applying.
Why Housing Assistance is Important for Felons
Housing is one of the basic necessities that felons need upon re-entering society. Without stable shelter, it becomes much harder for them to get their lives back on track. Here are some key reasons why housing assistance for felons is so important:
- Prevents Homelessness: Without assistance, many released felons end up homeless due to the inability to afford housing costs and discrimination by landlords. Housing assistance prevents this undesirable outcome.
- Provides Stability: By providing basic shelter, felons can focus on finding employment, getting education or job training, reconnecting with family, and working on rehabilitation. This allows them to use their time and energy more effectively and work towards a better future.
- Reduces Recidivism: Studies show that felons who secure housing immediately after release have lower recidivism rates compared to those who do not. Stable housing is key to successful re-entry.
- Improves Mental Health: Homelessness and housing instability lead to immense stress and deterioration of mental health. Access to affordable housing alleviates this burden.
- Builds Productivity: Maslow’s hierarchy lists housing as a basic physiological need that must be fulfilled before higher-level needs. Affordable housing enables productivity.
The evidence is clear – housing assistance should be a top priority for anyone seeking to reduce recidivism rates and successfully reintegrate felons into communities.
Housing Assistance Programs for Felons
Various government and nonprofit programs aim to help felons find affordable rental housing or even home ownership opportunities. Here are some of the main options:
1. HUD Public Housing
The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) offers federally funded public housing programs administered by local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs). Low-income individuals, including felons who meet eligibility criteria, can rent units at reduced rates through these programs. There are over 1 million public housing units across the country.
Pros:
- Units are subsidized so rents are 30% of income.
- No credit checks needed.
- Provides very affordable housing.
Cons:
- Waitlists can be very long depending on area demand.
- Some locations may exclude felons.
A good way to find felon friendly housing is to speak with local housing authorities.
2. Section 8 Housing Vouchers
It is possible to get a Section 8 voucher despite having a criminal record. The older your conviction and incarceration, the more chance you have at qualifying for a Section 8 voucher. Section 8 vouchers can help cover a part of rent and utility costs. Felons can use these vouchers to rent their own units, such as single-family homes or Low-income apartments for felons, instead of living in government housing projects.
Pros:
- Allows choice of rental unit.
- Rent amounts are adjustable based on income fluctuations.
Cons:
- Waitlists can be 5+ years long.
- Many landlords refuse to accept vouchers.
It is good idea to ask around and see which landlords accept Section 8 vouchers from ex-felons.
3. Transitional Housing
Transitional housing is a great option for felons seeking a place to stay. This program provides supportive housing to help people move from one stage to another in their lives. It can be particularly useful for those transitioning from prison to the community or moving from homelessness to a stable housing situation. Transitional housing assistance can prevent homelessness and offer much-needed support.
Transitional housing usually has a limited duration, ranging from a couple of weeks up to 24 months.
Pros:
- Short wait times.
- Support services like counseling are provided.
- Transitional to permanent housing.
Cons:
- Limits on duration of stay (often 24 months or less).
- Restrictive entry requirements.
4. Reentry Programs
Reentry programs help those who are released from prison or jail to find housing. Reentry programs often have connections with felon-friendly apartments. They partner with shelters, halfway houses, treatment facilities, and affordable housing providers to help felons find housing.
Most reentry programs are operated by health department staff, non-profit organizations, or county jails. Reentry programs provide housing information and resources to help people reenter society after incarceration.
Pros:
- Tailored to the needs of released felons.
- Provide connections to long-term housing assistance.
Cons:
- Funding limitations restrict the scale of services.
- Not universally available.
5. Halfway Housing
After being released from prison, a felon may stay in a halfway house, also called a residential re-entry center (RRC). The purpose of this place is to help them adjust to community life. While staying there, they must follow certain rules, behave well, and do their assigned tasks. If they break major rules, they may be sent back to prison.
Some prisoners are required to transfer to a halfway house after prison. while others choose to stay there because there are not many other housing options available. Even though a halfway house isn’t the best housing option, it has some advantages.
Pros:
- Constant and trustworthy security
- Access to food and shelter
Cons:
- Strict monitoring
- Lack of privacy
- Little to no help regarding employment, healthcare, and other needs
6. Second Chance Housing
Second-chance housing programs help felons to find housing. They offer resources and support during the rental process. HUD’s Fair Housing Initiative is a well-known second chance housing program. It encourages landlords to give people with criminal records a second chance to find housing.
7. Non-Profit and Religious Organizations
Non-profit and Religious Organizations play a vital role in providing housing assistance for felons. These organizations may offer temporary or permanent affordable housing options, along with supportive services such as job training, counseling, and mentorship programs
Some examples of non-profit organizations that offer housing help for felons are: The Fortune Society and The Osborne Association. These organizations provide transitional or permanent supportive housing options for individuals with criminal records in New York City.
7. Affordable Private Housing
Some landlords and properties offer affordable below-market rental rates without relying on subsidies. Felons can access these through realtors, Craigslist, papers, community lists etc. Nonprofit programs sometimes maintain lists of felon-friendly housing.
Pros:
- There are no lengthy waitlists.
- Landlords may be open to felons with records.
Cons:
- Supply of units may be limited.
- Application fees and credit checks are common.
How Felon Can Apply for Housing Assistance – (Step-by-Step Process)
To qualify for HUD and other housing assistance programs, you must be a citizen or legal alien of the country and meet the low-income guidelines. Felons can also apply for these programs. Here are some steps to help guide you through the application process:
Step 1: Research Available Programs- The first step is to research the housing assistance options for felons in your area, including local public housing, Section-8 vouchers, and non-profits that offer affordable or transitional housing.
Step 2: Check your eligibility- Check your income and other eligibility requirements before applying for a program. Avoid programs that do not accept felons at all.
Step 3: Collect Required Documents- Most programs require proof of income, identification, and residency. This might include income statements, proof of identity, or a criminal record check. So Be sure to gather all these documents before you start the application process.
Step 3: Contact the Program and Complete the Application- Reach out to the program and ask about their application process. Follow the instructions provided by the program, and provide accurate information about your household size, income, and special circumstances, if any, that may affect your eligibility.
Step 4: Submit Your Application- Complete and submit your application according to the program’s instructions. Some programs accept online submissions, while others may require you to mail or drop off a physical copy.
Step 5: Wait for a Response – When you submit your application, the program may not respond immediately. Be patient, and follow up if you don’t hear back within a reasonable period of time.
Step 6: Accept the offer and Move in – If approved, complete necessary steps like credit checks, home inspections, etc. to accept the housing/voucher offer. Arrange for deposits, rent payments, utilities, and finally, move-in on the allotted date. Follow the terms of your lease.
Online Platforms to Find Housing for Felons
For released inmates seeking affordable and felon-friendly housing options, here are some online platforms that can help in the search:
1. Craigslist
If you have a felony record and are looking for help with housing, Craigslist is a good option for you. Most of the landlords on Craigslist are willing to work with felons, which makes it easier than dealing with property management companies. Craigslist landlords don’t usually require a background check, unlike apartment complexes.
2. Zillow’s Community Pillar Program
Zillow’s Community Pillar Program aims to provide housing opportunities to people who are disadvantaged. To achieve this, landlords lower their standards and encourage more people to apply. The program makes it easier for ex-offenders to find housing.
3. Facebook Marketplace
Similar to Craigslist, Marketplace allows users to list rental units for lease. Join local Facebook Groups related to housing for felons and assistance programs to find listings.
4. Second Chance Locators
Finding an apartment can be tough for those with a criminal record. Landlords may refuse to rent to someone with a felony on their record. However, there are resources online that can help people with criminal records find apartments that are open to renting to them.
Second-chance locators can help people with criminal records find housing. Some services are commission-based, and other services charge at least three times the rent, and they work with landlords to find an apartment that suits your needs.
5. Zumper
Zumper is a website that can help you find apartments without requiring a background check. While it’s not as popular as Craigslist, it does have a filter that can help you find a place even if you have a criminal record. This feature can make your search for a new home easier and more efficient.
How do you overcome the barriers and discrimination that felons face?
Felons face some discrimination and barriers when it comes to finding affordable housing. This is where housing programs for felons come in and become even more important. Some of the common challenges that felons face include:
- Stigma of criminal record – Landlords worry about risks like relapses and property damage. Stigma limits housing choices.
- Income requirements – Housing programs have strict income cutoffs. Felons often earn less, disqualifying them.
- Employment history – A steady employment history is required. Incarceration gaps make this difficult.
- Credit scores – Many landlords check credit. Felons often have low credit due to debt and bankruptcy.
- Application fees – These screening fees are prohibitive for felons with limited incomes.
- Permanent exclusions – Some housing providers outright refuse to rent to any felons.
Thankfully, there are ways felons can overcome these barriers:
- Seek out felon-friendly housing programs and landlords. Be open about past records.
- Get a case manager through reentry programs to advocate on your behalf.
- Ask about fee waivers and flexible credit for housing applications.
- Explore options to rebuild credit like secured cards and credit builder loans.
- Appeal any denials received by citing evidence of rehabilitation.
- Get character references from probation officers, mentors, employers etc.
- Consider transitional housing first to establish residential history.
Housing for felons is very helpful for this vulnerable group. With determination and persistence, these challenges can be overcome gradually.
Emergency Housing Assistance Options For Felons
If you’re a felon and facing homelessness, you might find emergency housing assistance helpful. Here are some options for temporary accommodations while you seek long-term housing.
- Homeless Shelters – Shelters provide basic dorm-style lodging along with meals, showers, etc.
- Transitional Housing – Short-term housing for 6-24 months offered through reentry programs.
- Halfway Houses – Shared housing with supervision for newly released felons.
- Emergency Vouchers – Limited vouchers issued for emergency housing needs through PHAs.
- Domestic Violence Shelters – Temporary housing for those facing abuse and violence.
- Stay with Family/Friends – Seek out any contacts who can provide temporary lodging.
- Motel Vouchers – Some charities offer emergency motel stays for those facing immediate homelessness.
- Warming Centers – Daytime facilities provide refuge from weather along with housing resources.
- Homeless Outreach – Teams work to connect unsheltered homeless individuals with housing.
Emergency housing services can be a safety net for felons as they transition back into regular life. This can prevent them from ending up on the streets.
Helpful Resources For Low Income Housing for Felons
Here are some recommendations for resources that felons can consult to access housing assistance programs in their communities:
- Local Public Housing Authority – Administers Section 8, public housing, and other HUD programs.
- Reentry Programs – Nonprofit groups supporting the reintegration of ex-offenders.
- 211 Housing Helpline – Referral service for emergency housing and shelter.
- Salvation Army – Provides housing vouchers along with other services.
- Goodwill – Job training and housing assistance are offered in some locations.
- Criminal Record Clearing – Assistance expunging records to reduce barriers.
- HUD Exchange is a user-friendly guide for HUD’s housing assistance programs. Visit: https://www.hudexchange.info/housing-and-homeless-assistance/homeless-help/
Don’t hesitate to contact these organizations for guidance until you can find affordable housing that provides a platform for reintegrating into the community.
Conclusion
Finding stable and affordable housing for felons is challenging. But, there are options available for felons to access public housing assistance programs, transitional housing, and nonprofits that focus on reentry. Although discrimination is still present, these resources can help felons overcome obstacles through persistence. Remember never to give up hope for a second chance.
FAQs About Housing For Felons
What are some housing assistance programs for felons?
Some major housing assistance programs for felons include HUD public housing, Section 8 vouchers, transitional housing, reentry programs, affordable private housing rentals, and homeownership assistance programs. Each has different eligibility requirements and application processes.
How can a felon get an emergency housing voucher?
Contact your local Public Housing Authority to ask about emergency vouchers for those facing immediate homelessness. Some nonprofits like the Salvation Army also offer emergency motel and rental vouchers in certain locations. Transitional housing and shelters are other emergency options.
Do felons qualify for Section 8 housing vouchers?
In most cases yes, but some Public Housing Authorities impose restrictions on felons, especially those convicted of sex offenses, violent crimes, or manufacturing methamphetamine. Eligibility also depends on having very low income. The waitlist is often several years.
What are some resources felons can use to find housing assistance?
The local Public Housing Authority, HUD Exchange, reentry nonprofits, 211 housing helpline, Salvation Army, Goodwill, and criminal record clearing programs are good resources. They can advise on assistance programs, eligibility, and applications.
How can felons overcome discrimination by landlords?
Being open about past records, obtaining character references, finding felon-friendly housing programs, working to improve credit, and appealing any application denials can help overcome discrimination. Transitional housing first also helps establish a rental history
What should a felon do if their housing application is denied?
First appeal the denial if possible and present evidence of rehabilitation. Also contact local housing authorities to ask about alternative options and programs for felons that may have more flexible approval requirements. Getting a case manager to advocate can also help.
Where can felons find emergency or transitional housing after release?
Homeless shelters, halfway houses, warming centers, transitional housing through reentry programs, domestic violence shelters, and temporary lodging with family/friends are some options for emergency transitional housing while seeking permanent affordable housing.
How can a felon improve their chances of getting approved for housing assistance?
Improving credit, collecting character references, obtaining a case manager, finding felon-friendly programs, completing transitional housing first, securing employment or income, and clearly demonstrating rehabilitation efforts can improve chances of approval.
What costs are involved in applying for housing assistance programs?
While some housing assistance programs for felons do not require fees or deposits, others may charge application fees, credit check fees, or require security deposits. Know the costs before applying and request waivers if possible.
