Montana Rental Assistance Grants for 2025: Eligibility & How to Apply

For Montana renters facing rising rents, possible eviction, or financial hardship, help may be available in 2025 through rental assistance grants. These programs are designed to support tenants in maintaining safe and stable housing across the state.

Understanding Rental Assistance in Montana for 2025

Montana offers a range of rental assistance programs for low-income individuals or households at risk of losing their housing. Managed by the Montana Department of Commerce and local agencies, these grants can cover rent, utility arrears, or even security deposits, depending on your situation. Eligibility is usually based on household income, recent financial hardship, and housing status.

Main Rental Assistance Programs

• Montana Emergency Rental Assistance (MERA): This statewide program assists eligible renters with overdue rent or utilities. The program is updated yearly; the latest details are published by the Montana Department of Commerce's official site.
• Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program: Provides ongoing rental subsidies based on the renter's income. Run by the Montana Housing Division and local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs).
• Local Housing Trust Funds & Short-Term Grants: Some Montana cities and counties offer additional emergency grants—check with your local housing agency for availability.

Who Can Apply?

• Renters living in Montana with a rental agreement
• Households meeting designated income limits (generally at or below 80% of local median income)
• Those experiencing financial hardship (job loss, medical bills, rent increases, etc.)
• People at risk of homelessness or housing instability

Read the Housing Choice Voucher Administrative Plan and see up-to-date income limits on Montana Housing's website.

How to Apply for Rental Assistance Grants in Montana

Applying for a grant involves preparing documents, meeting eligibility requirements, and submitting the correct forms—usually online, by mail, or in person. Processing times may vary, so it's important to act quickly if you need help.

Official Forms & Where to Find Them

• Montana Emergency Rental Assistance Application (No Number):
  When to use: If you have overdue rent, utility bills, or risk eviction in 2025, this is the primary form for the MERA program.
  How to use: Complete the online application, attach documentation (lease, income verification, utility bills), and submit via the official Montana Housing portal.
  Access the MERA Application
• Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Pre-Application (No Number):
  When to use: Use this form if you want ongoing rental support under the Section 8 program.
  How to use: Submit online or through a local PHA. Be prepared to wait on a waitlist due to high need.
  Download the Pre-Application

Your Rights and Where to Get Help

In Montana, renters have legal protections against unfair treatment and abrupt eviction. The tribunal responsible for handling landlord-tenant disputes, including rental assistance complaints, is the Montana Justice Court, which oversees cases related to residential tenancies statewide.

The main legislation covering renters’ rights and responsibilities (including obligations of both landlords and tenants) is the Montana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.¹

What If My Assistance Application Is Denied?

If your request for rental assistance is declined, you can request a review with the program administrator. In some cases, you may also file a complaint with the Montana Justice Court if you believe your rights under the Montana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act were violated.

FAQ: Montana Rental Assistance Grants

1. Who qualifies for rental assistance in Montana?
   Most programs are based on income, household size, and proof you’re experiencing housing instability or financial hardship. There are also requirements to be a current renter in Montana.
2. How do I check the status of my rental assistance application?
   Log in to your account on the Montana Emergency Rental Assistance portal or call their helpline for updates.
3. Is rental assistance taxable income?
   No, under current federal law and IRS guidelines, rental assistance grants paid to landlords or utility companies are not counted as taxable income for the renter.
4. Can I apply for both Section 8 and emergency rental assistance?
   Yes. You can apply for emergency help while waiting for Section 8, though each program has a separate application and eligibility check.
5. What if my landlord refuses to accept the assistance payment?
   If your landlord declines payment, contact the program administrator immediately for next steps, and seek legal advice through Montana Legal Services.

Key Takeaways

• Montana's 2025 rental assistance grants help renters stay housed and avoid eviction.
• Official applications are processed by Montana Housing; early application is recommended.
• Your rights as a renter are protected under the Montana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

If you are struggling with rent or worried about eviction, it’s important to review your options and seek help as soon as possible.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Montana Emergency Rental Assistance Program – Information, application, and eligibility details.
• Montana Section 8/ Housing Choice Voucher Program – Subsidized housing assistance, waitlist info.
• Montana Justice Court – For landlord-tenant disputes and rental complaints.
• Montana Legal Services Association – Free or low-cost legal aid for renters (eviction, application denial, discrimination).
• Montana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act – Complete, up-to-date legislation on your rental rights.

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1. Montana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act of 1977 (Montana Code Annotated Title 70, Chapter 24)

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