Kentucky Rental Assistance Grants: 2025 Guide for Renters

Finding stable, affordable housing in Kentucky can be challenging, especially when unexpected events like job loss or medical emergencies threaten your ability to pay rent. The good news is that Kentucky offers a variety of rental assistance grants and programs to help renters stay in their homes. This guide explains what's available for 2025, how to apply, and key legal protections for renters in Kentucky.

Overview of Rental Assistance Grants in Kentucky (2025)

The primary statewide resource for rental assistance is the Kentucky Housing Corporation (KHC), which oversees several rental assistance programs. Funding and eligibility for some programs may change annually, so it’s important to check current details before applying.

• Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP): For tenants facing financial hardship, covering past-due and upcoming rent payments, plus certain utilities.
• Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program: Provides long-term rental subsidies for low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities.
• Local and city-specific assistance: Several counties and cities offer their own rental aid, especially in larger urban areas like Louisville and Lexington.

Each program may have its own eligibility rules related to income, residency, and documentation.

Eligibility Requirements for 2025

Most programs require you to:

• Be a current Kentucky resident and rent your home
• Meet specific income limits (vary by county and household size)
• Be at risk of eviction or demonstrate loss of income or increased costs (such as medical expenses)
• Provide documentation such as a lease agreement, notice of overdue rent, and proof of income or hardship

Eligibility criteria can change, so always check the official KHC rental assistance portal for the most up-to-date rules.

How to Apply for Rental Assistance Grants in Kentucky

Applying is usually straightforward if you gather your documents first. Most programs, including ERAP, require you to apply online through the official Kentucky application portal.

• Visit the Team Kentucky Healthy at Home Eviction Relief Fund (HHERF) application site.
• Complete the online application, uploading required documents such as your ID, lease, and proof of hardship.
• Monitor your email and the application dashboard for status updates or requests for more information.
• Funds may be paid directly to your landlord or utility provider.

Some counties and cities, such as Louisville, operate their own portals. Check with your local housing authority if you live in an urban area.

Important Forms to Know

• Team Kentucky HHERF Application (Online Form):
  Used for the main state rental assistance program. Renters fill this out when seeking emergency rental aid. Access and submit here.
• Notice to Quit or Eviction Notice (No form number):
  Landlords issue these if rent is late. Renters should upload a copy if they receive one when applying for assistance. More info is available at the Kentucky Court System's eviction information page.
• Proof of Income (Various):
  Pay stubs, benefits statements, or unemployment letters can be used. Submit these as uploads during your online application.

What If You Receive an Eviction Notice?

If you receive an eviction notice ("Notice to Vacate"), you have legal rights as a tenant under Kentucky law. You can often stop or delay the eviction by immediately applying for rental assistance and informing your landlord of your application status.

Eviction cases in Kentucky are handled by the Kentucky Judicial Branch - District Court. You may have to attend a court hearing if an eviction is filed. For more information on tenant rights and the eviction process, review the Kentucky Revised Statutes Chapter 383: Landlord and Tenant^[1].

Summary: Protecting Your Tenancy

Rental assistance grants offer practical help for Kentucky renters in 2025 facing hardship, but knowing your rights and staying organized is key to long-term stability. Qualifying renters should act quickly and use the official Kentucky Housing Corporation resources for safe, reliable support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How do I apply for rental assistance in Kentucky?
   Apply online using the Team Kentucky HHERF website, provide your lease, ID, eviction notice (if applicable), and proof of income or hardship.
2. Can I apply for assistance if I already received an eviction notice?
   Yes, you can and should apply for assistance as soon as possible. Notify your landlord and upload your eviction notice with your application.
3. What documents will I need for my application?
   You will need a government-issued ID, your current lease, proof of income or benefits, and any notices from your landlord.
4. Does rental assistance cover utilities as well?
   Most Kentucky programs, including ERAP, can help with utility payments that are included in your lease or billed directly.
5. Who handles rental disputes and evictions in Kentucky?
   The Kentucky District Court handles formal eviction cases and rental disputes.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• Statewide and local rental assistance grants are available for many renters facing hardship.
• Apply promptly, keep good records, and use only official Kentucky Housing resources.
• Your rights as a tenant are protected under Kentucky Revised Statutes Chapter 383.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Kentucky Housing Corporation - Emergency Rental Assistance
• Kentucky Judicial Branch - Find Your District Court
• Legal Aid Society of Louisville (legal help for renters)
• Kentucky Revised Statutes Chapter 383: Landlord and Tenant

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1. Kentucky Revised Statutes Chapter 383: Landlord and Tenant

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