Louisiana Rental Assistance Grants: 2025 Eligibility & Application Guide

Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Louisiana published June 21, 2025 Flag of Louisiana

Louisiana renters facing financial stress can access several rental assistance grants in 2025, designed to help residents stay housed during difficult times. Whether you're dealing with sudden rent increases, a risk of eviction, or struggling to make ends meet, understanding these support programs and how to apply can make a real difference.

What Rental Assistance Grants Are Available in Louisiana for 2025?

In 2025, renters in Louisiana can access a combination of federally funded and state-supported rental assistance programs. These initiatives are managed by state and local agencies, with funding from sources like the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) Program and Louisiana Housing Corporation (LHC).

Key Rental Assistance Options

  • Louisiana Emergency Rental Assistance Program (LaERAP): Provides help with past-due and future rent and certain utility payments for eligible renters.
  • Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program: Offers long-term housing assistance for qualifying households.
  • Short-Term Local Assistance: Some Louisiana parishes and cities run their own short-term rental relief programs—check with your local housing authority for availability.

The primary agency overseeing rental assistance in the state is the Louisiana Housing Corporation. If you live in Orleans Parish, contact the City of New Orleans Office of Community Development for parish-specific programs.

Eligibility for Rental Assistance in Louisiana

Each program has its own eligibility criteria, but generally you must:

  • Be a Louisiana resident who rents your primary residence
  • Meet income requirements (typically at or below 80% of Area Median Income)
  • Show risk of housing instability, such as overdue rent, eviction notice, or high rent burden
  • Demonstrate financial hardship due to loss of income, increased expenses, or other qualifying events

Documentation (like pay stubs, a lease agreement, eviction notice, or proof of income) will be required with your application.

Ad

How to Apply for Rental Assistance Grants in Louisiana

Applying for rental aid involves gathering necessary documents, completing the proper form, and submitting your request online or by mail. The main form for the statewide program is:

Rental Assistance Application Form

  • Form Name: Louisiana Emergency Rental Assistance Application
  • When to use: When you're behind on rent, received an eviction notice, or are facing housing instability.
  • How to use: Submit the form online via the official LaERAP portal or contact LHC for paper application options.
  • Official source: LaERAP Application Portal

If you’re applying for a local parish program or Section 8, your public housing authority will provide program-specific application forms and instructions. You can search for local agencies via the HUD Public Housing Agency Contact Directory.

Tip: Apply as soon as you realize you’re at risk. Funds are often limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Your Rights and Protections as a Louisiana Renter

It’s important to know your basic rights as a renter in Louisiana. The Louisiana Civil Code governs most rental relationships. While there is no statewide rent cap, you have rights regarding rental agreements, required notice periods for eviction, and property habitability. If you face an eviction, you may present your approved application or pending status as evidence in court to delay or halt proceedings.

Residential rental disputes, including eviction, are handled by your local parish court system. Learn more at the Louisiana Supreme Court site, and for New Orleans, visit the New Orleans First City Court.

Relevant Louisiana Laws

FAQ: Rental Assistance in Louisiana

  1. How long does it take to get rental assistance in Louisiana?
    Processing times vary, but most applications are reviewed within 2–6 weeks. Respond promptly to requests for additional documents.
  2. Can I apply for rental assistance if I've already received an eviction notice?
    Yes. As long as you meet eligibility criteria, you can apply after receiving a notice. Share your application status with the court if an eviction hearing is scheduled.
  3. Is undocumented status a barrier to rental assistance?
    Some programs, like Section 8, require eligible immigration status. However, certain local and emergency programs may serve all residents. Check with the program administrator for details.
  4. Do I need landlord cooperation to apply for aid?
    Yes, many programs require landlord participation to process payments. However, renters can often apply independently to get started.
  5. Where do I check the status of my application?
    Log into your LaERAP account at the official portal or call LHC at (877) 459-6555.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

  • Louisiana offers multiple rental assistance grants in 2025 for renters facing hardship.
  • Act quickly: Applications often require income proof, a signed lease, and sometimes landlord participation.
  • Know your rights under the Louisiana Civil Code and reach out for help with disputes or emergencies.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

  1. Louisiana Housing Corporation: Official Rental Assistance Page
  2. Louisiana Civil Code, Article 2668 et seq.: Lease of Things
  3. HUD: Public Housing Agency Contacts
  4. LaERAP Application: Official Portal

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Renter Rights USA

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

Related Articles