Missouri Rental Assistance Grants: 2025 Guide for Renters

Finding affordable housing or staying current on rent can be a challenge for many Missouri renters, especially with rising rental prices and unexpected financial hardships. The State of Missouri offers several rental assistance grants and programs to help eligible residents avoid eviction and secure safe, affordable housing. This guide explains the main options for Missouri renters in 2025, how to apply, and where to get support if you’re struggling to pay rent or facing eviction.

What Rental Assistance Grants Are Available in Missouri (2025)?

Missouri renters can access rental aid through a mix of federal, state, and local programs. The largest and most reliable sources include:

• Missouri State Assistance for Housing Relief (SAFHR)
• Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program (federal, administered locally)
• Local government and community-based emergency rental assistance funds

1. Missouri State Assistance for Housing Relief (SAFHR)

The SAFHR program, administered by the Missouri Housing Development Commission (MHDC), offers grants for past-due rent, forward rent, and utility bills. In 2025, SAFHR continues to help renters impacted by financial hardship, providing up to 18 months of aid in some cases.

• Eligibility: Renters with financial hardship since March 2020, usually household income below 80% of the median in your area.
• Application: Submit online through the official SAFHR portal or, if needed, request paper forms from MHDC.
• Required documents: Lease agreement, proof of income, landlord contact info, and documentation of hardship (like job loss, medical bills).

Official Form:

• SAFHR Application Form: Used to apply for rent or utility assistance through the SAFHR program.
  How It's Used: Complete and submit the form online (or by mail if requested) to start your application. Example: If you lost your job and owe back rent, use this form to request SAFHR help.
  Apply for SAFHR assistance here

2. Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCV)

The federal Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program is run in Missouri by local Public Housing Agencies (PHAs). Qualified renters get vouchers to help pay a portion of rent directly to landlords. Waitlists can be long, so it’s wise to apply as early as possible.

• Eligibility: Varies by location; generally, low-income individuals or families, U.S. citizens or eligible immigrants.
• Application: Apply directly with your local PHA. Each PHA provides instructions, forms, and waitlist status.

Official Form:

• Section 8 Preliminary Application: The initial form to join the local Section 8 waitlist.
  How It's Used: Submit when applications are open in your area. Example: If you meet low-income guidelines and seek ongoing rental support.
  Find your local PHA and Section 8 forms here

3. Emergency Rental Assistance through Local Agencies

Many Missouri cities and counties, such as St. Louis and Kansas City, offer emergency rental assistance through local government or nonprofit partners. These are typically short-term grants to prevent eviction.

• Eligibility: Often focuses on households at risk of homelessness or within certain income limits.
• Application: Check with local government websites or call 2-1-1 for up-to-date contacts and forms.

Applying for Rental Assistance: Steps for Missouri Renters

If you’re struggling to pay rent or utilities, follow these steps to seek help:

• Gather documents: Lease, proof of hardship or income loss, landlord’s contact, photo ID.
• Choose the right program: SAFHR, Section 8, or local aid. If in doubt, start with SAFHR or your local PHA/211 helpline.
• Complete program application: Use the official website or requested paper forms. Follow instructions carefully and ask for help if needed.
• Keep copies: Save all documents and email confirmations.
• Respond quickly: If the agency requests more info, reply promptly to avoid delays.

Who Oversees Tenant and Landlord Disputes in Missouri?

The Missouri circuit courts handle rental disputes such as eviction or nonpayment matters. Tenants or landlords can file complaints using court forms. For additional help, the Missouri Attorney General's Office provides guidance and resources.

Key Tenant Rights and Laws

Missouri rental law protects renters through the Missouri Revised Statutes, Chapter 441, which outlines rights on leases, eviction, and housing standards.¹ For example, landlords must follow proper notice and filing procedures to lawfully remove a tenant.

FAQ: Missouri Rental Assistance Grants

1. Who is eligible for SAFHR rental assistance?
   Most Missouri renters with overdue rent or utility bills and financial hardship (such as job loss or medical costs) since March 2020 may qualify, especially if their income is under the local median.
2. How long does it take to get rental assistance in Missouri?
   Processing times vary, but most SAFHR applications are completed in 3–6 weeks if all documents are submitted correctly. Section 8 waitlists may be significantly longer.
3. Can I apply for assistance if I’ve already received an eviction notice?
   Yes. You can still apply for SAFHR or local emergency programs. Provide your eviction notice during application and notify your landlord; this can sometimes delay proceedings.
4. Are rental grants taxable income?
   No. Rental assistance grants like SAFHR are not considered taxable income for Missouri renters.
5. What if my landlord refuses to cooperate with my assistance application?
   If your landlord won’t accept rental assistance, ask the program if direct payments to you are possible. If not, contact Missouri legal aid for advice or to seek help through the court.

Key Takeaways for Missouri Renters

• Missouri offers several rental assistance grants through SAFHR, Section 8, and local programs.
• Keep accurate records, apply early, and respond to agency requests promptly.
• The Missouri Revised Statutes protect your rights as a renter throughout the rental and eviction processes.

Applying for rental assistance can feel overwhelming, but taking proactive steps, collecting documentation, and seeking help can make all the difference. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the resources listed below if you need support.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Missouri SAFHR Assistance Portal – Rental and utility assistance applications.
• HUD Missouri Rental Programs – Section 8 and housing voucher contacts.
• Missouri Circuit Courts – For eviction proceedings and tenant/landlord filings.
• Missouri Attorney General Landlord-Tenant Info – Laws, tenant rights, and sample legal forms.
• Missouri 2-1-1 Hotline – Local rental assistance programs and emergency contacts.

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1. Missouri Revised Statutes, Chapter 441 – Landlord and Tenant Law
2. Missouri Housing Development Commission (SAFHR Program)
3. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (Missouri Section 8)
4. Missouri Courts – Landlord/Tenant Cases
5. Missouri Attorney General Landlord-Tenant Law Information

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