Minnesota Rental Assistance Grants: Official 2025 Programs & Forms

Facing rising rent or financial hardship? Minnesota renters can access several official rental assistance grants in 2025. These programs are designed to help individuals and families stay housed, especially if they're struggling with rent payments or risk eviction. This guide walks you through what programs are available, how to apply, and important rights under Minnesota rental law.

Understanding Rental Assistance in Minnesota

Rental assistance grants are funds or vouchers from state and federal sources. In Minnesota, these help eligible renters pay rent or cover past-due balances. The state’s main programs are managed through the Minnesota Housing Finance Agency (Minnesota Housing) and local Housing Authorities. Some programs target short-term emergencies, while others offer ongoing help.

2025 Rental Assistance Programs

• Emergency Assistance (EA): Provided by counties to help renters avoid eviction during sudden crises (job loss, medical emergency).
• Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8): Federally funded, helps pay rent in the private market. Managed locally and usually has a waitlist.
• Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program (FHPAP): Short-term help for families and individuals at risk of homelessness.
• Continuum of Care (CoC) Programs: Federal partnership offering rent and case management for those experiencing homelessness.

Each program has its own eligibility rules, but most require income documentation and proof you live in Minnesota. For detailed program information, check the Minnesota Housing Rental Assistance overview.

Key Official Forms for Minnesota Renters

• Combined Application Form (DHS-5223): This Minnesota Department of Human Services form is used to apply for Emergency Assistance and other support programs.
  Example: If you lost your job and can’t pay rent, use this form with your county office to request emergency rent help.
  Download DHS-5223 Official Form
• Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Pre-Application: Use the pre-application from your local public housing authority to join their waitlist.
  Example: If you’re seeking ongoing rental support, submit this to participate in the Section 8 lottery.
  Minneapolis Public Housing Authority Application
• Family Homeless Prevention and Assistance Program (FHPAP) Application: Provided by local FHPAP coordinators.
  Example: Apply directly through your county or nonprofit FHPAP partner if you’re facing imminent housing loss.
  FHPAP Official Info

Always keep a copy of your application and any correspondence. Submit forms to the appropriate agency as instructed—many allow online, mail, or in-person options.

Your Rights as a Renter When Seeking Assistance

Minnesota protects renters from discrimination when applying for or receiving rental assistance. Your landlord cannot evict you simply for seeking help. Official tenancy rights and landlord obligations are outlined in the Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 504B – Landlord and Tenant¹.

Eviction actions are handled by the Minnesota district courts. To learn about the eviction process or dispute a landlord’s action, visit the Minnesota Judicial Branch Housing Court Help.

What to Do If You Face Eviction While Applying for Assistance

• Notify your landlord in writing that you’ve applied for rental assistance. Keep a copy of all communications.
• Contact your local county’s Emergency Assistance office or legal aid for urgent support.
• If you receive an eviction notice, respond quickly using the forms provided by the court (usually included with your notice), and appear in court if required.

Promptly applying for grants and keeping your landlord informed can often prevent or pause eviction proceedings while your case is reviewed.

FAQ: Minnesota Rental Assistance Grants

1. Who can get rental assistance in Minnesota?
   Most programs require Minnesota residency, income guidelines, and a demonstrated housing need.
2. Do I need a Social Security Number to apply?
   Many programs require one, but some emergency grants may accept other documentation for non-citizens.
3. How long does it take to get help?
   Processing times vary—emergencies may take days, Section 8 waitlists can be much longer. Submit forms early and follow up.
4. Can my landlord evict me while I’m waiting for aid?
   Legally, landlords must follow state procedures—but they cannot evict you solely for applying for assistance.¹
5. Where do I find official application forms?
   All official forms are linked above and available from county offices or official program websites.

Key Takeaways for Minnesota Renters

• Several Minnesota programs offer rental assistance grants—start with your local county Emergency Assistance, Section 8, and FHPAP programs.
• Always use official state forms and keep documentation of applications and landlord communication.
• Minnesota law protects renters seeking help—use state court and legal support resources if facing eviction.

Act quickly and reach out for official help if you’re struggling to pay rent or facing eviction proceedings.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Minnesota Housing Finance Agency (Minnesota Housing) – Statewide Rental Programs
• County Emergency Assistance
• LawHelpMN – Renter Rights Guides
• Minnesota Judicial Branch Housing Court (for eviction hearings and disputes)
• Minnesota Office of Administrative Hearings (oversight and hearing information)

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1. Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 504B – Landlord and Tenant

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