How do I know if I qualify for Michigan rental assistance grants?

Eligibility is based on income, residency, and risk of eviction or homelessness. Check MDHHS and MI Bridges for full guidelines.

What documents do I need to apply?

You need ID, proof of income, rent amount, lease, and documents showing your housing crisis (like an eviction notice).

Can I get help if I already have an eviction filed against me?

Yes. You can still apply for grants and submit your eviction notice as proof for urgent processing by MDHHS.

How long does it take to get rental grant approval?

It usually takes several days to a few weeks, depending on urgency and paperwork completeness.

Where can I get help completing my forms?

Your local MDHHS office, Michigan Legal Help, or community agencies offer help with application paperwork.

Rental Assistance Grants in Michigan: 2025 Renter Guide

Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Michigan published June 21, 2025

For renters in Michigan, dealing with financial difficulties can be overwhelming, especially when rent is due or increases occur unexpectedly. Michigan offers a range of rental assistance grants to help renters avoid eviction and stabilize their housing. This guide explains what grants are available in 2025, how to apply, and where to get official forms and support, according to the latest rules.

Overview: Michigan Rental Assistance Grants for 2025

Rental assistance grants are programs that provide direct payment or vouchers to help renters cover their monthly rent or housing-related costs. In Michigan, these grants are typically funded by the state or federal government and administered through local agencies.

Michigan State Emergency Relief (SER) Housing Assistance
Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program (federal)
Emergency Housing Vouchers (by local Public Housing Authorities)
Special grant programs for veterans, seniors, and individuals with disabilities

Eligibility usually depends on income, need, and current housing status. These grants can help prevent eviction, pay back rent, or secure new housing.

Key Programs for Michigan Renters

Michigan State Emergency Relief (SER) – Housing Assistance

Managed by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), the SER program provides emergency grants to help renters stay in their homes or pay for relocation. The SER Housing Assistance can cover back rent, security deposits, and sometimes moving expenses.

Eligibility: Michigan residents facing immediate housing crisis (such as eviction or homelessness risk) and meeting income guidelines
Assistance: Covers back rent, security deposits, and some relocation costs
Application: Submit via MI Bridges portal or local MDHHS offices

Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program

Section 8 is a federally funded program administered locally in Michigan that provides eligible renters with vouchers to help pay rent in privately-owned housing. You must apply through your local Public Housing Agency (PHA).

Eligibility: Based on income, family size, and citizenship or eligible immigration status
Use: Vouchers pay a portion of monthly rent directly to the landlord
Application: Contact your local PHA via the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) website

Action Steps for Applying to SER

Applying for rental help in Michigan involves key forms and steps:

MDHHS State Emergency Relief Application Form (DHS-1514): The main application for SER. Used any time you seek emergency rental help. File online at MI Bridges or get a paper copy at your local MDHHS office. Download the DHS-1514 SER Application (PDF) directly from the state.
Proof of Emergency: You may need to submit a written eviction notice, court summons, or a letter from your landlord as proof that housing is at risk.
Bring ID, proof of income, rental agreement, and supporting documents to your local MDHHS office if applying in person.

Michigan's Official Tribunal for Rental Disputes

If you are facing eviction or rental disagreements, cases are usually handled by the Michigan District Courts, which oversee landlord-tenant matters statewide.

Tip: If you receive an eviction notice, you should respond quickly! Michigan courts move fast on these cases. Use state forms and ask for a court hearing if you want to challenge an eviction.

Required Forms: Names, Uses, and Where to Find Them

DHS-1514 – State Emergency Relief Application
- When to Use: When you face eviction or can’t pay rent due to an emergency
- How to Use: Complete the form online or in-person, attach proof of emergency, and submit to MDHHS
- Official Link: DHS-1514 (State of Michigan)
Notice to Quit – DC 100c (Nonpayment of Rent Notice)
- When to Use: Landlords serve this form before filing for eviction. Renters may use it as proof for rental assistance applications.
- How to Use: If you receive a DC 100c, attach it as evidence of eviction risk for grant applications.
- Official Link: DC 100c (Michigan Courts)

Relevant Legislation: Michigan Tenant Rights

Michigan’s tenant and landlord rules are established under the Michigan Truth in Renting Act and Landlord and Tenant Relationships Act.
If you’re applying for rental assistance, it’s important to know your rights under these laws.

FAQs for Michigan Renters on Rental Grants

How do I know if I qualify for Michigan rental assistance grants?
Eligibility depends on income (usually under 150% of federal poverty), risk of homelessness or eviction, and Michigan residency. Check requirements on MDHHS and MI Bridges.
What documents do I need to apply?
You need proof of identification, income, rent amount, a current lease (if possible), and documentation of your housing crisis (such as an eviction notice).
Can I get help if I already have an eviction filed against me?
Yes. You can still apply for SER or other grants, and include any pending eviction notice/Court forms with your application for urgent processing by MDHHS.
How long does it take to get rental grant approval?
Decisions on SER applications typically take a few days to a few weeks, depending on urgency and completeness of your paperwork.
Where can I get help completing my forms?
Your local MDHHS office, Michigan Legal Help, or community action agencies can guide you through the application process and paperwork.

Summary: Key Takeaways for Michigan Renters

Michigan renters facing financial hardship may qualify for emergency rental grants or vouchers in 2025
The main programs are SER (DHS-1514) and Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher
Many applications now start online via MI Bridges or at your local MDHHS office
The Michigan District Court manages landlord-tenant legal issues, including eviction disputes

Being prepared with documentation and acting quickly increases your chance of staying housed and protected under Michigan tenancy law.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Michigan

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) – Rental Assistance Info: 1-855-275-6424
Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) – Housing Vouchers and Support
Michigan Legal Help – Tenant Self-Help Resources
Michigan District Court Locator – Eviction & Tenant Disputes
If you need in-person help, visit your county MDHHS office. Find locations at the state's official field offices directory.

Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), State Emergency Relief (SER): Official SER Information
Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA): Official MSHDA Site
Michigan District Courts (Tribunal): District Court Information
Michigan Truth in Renting Act: State Legislation
Michigan Landlord and Tenant Relationships Act: State Legislation