Texas Rental Assistance Grants: Programs for 2025

Many renters across Texas face challenges like rising rents, unexpected expenses, or sudden job loss. If you’re worried about keeping up with your rent or facing possible eviction, you’re not alone. The good news: several official rental assistance grants are available to help Texas renters afford safe and stable housing in 2025.

Who Can Access Rental Assistance in Texas?

Rental assistance grants are designed for individuals and families who need help paying rent, catching up on past due payments, or avoiding eviction due to hardship. Common eligibility criteria include:

• Income below a certain limit (varies by program and county)
• Demonstrated risk of homelessness or housing instability
• Proof of residence in Texas

Each grant program may have its own specific requirements, so always check the program’s official information or contact the provider.

Major Rental Assistance Grant Programs in Texas (2025)

Several statewide and local programs offer help. Here’s a summary of the most important ones to know about:

Texas Rent Relief Program

The Texas Rent Relief Program is run by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA). In 2025, this program continues to provide help with:

• Current and past-due rent payments
• Some utility bill assistance
• Legal resources to prevent eviction

To apply, you’ll need to complete the official application online or via mail. Assistance is provided on a first-come, first-served basis, and funds are limited. The application form is called the Texas Rent Relief Application Form, available here.

Local Emergency Rental Assistance Programs (ERAP)

Many cities and counties across Texas run their own Emergency Rental Assistance Programs. Examples include:

• Dallas County Emergency Housing Assistance Program
• Houston-Harris County Emergency Rental Assistance
• Travis County Emergency Assistance

You typically apply through your local agency or housing department. Check your city or county’s housing office for up-to-date forms and deadlines.

For Tenants Facing Eviction

If you receive a formal notice to vacate, you may be able to access legal aid, mediation, or additional grants through the court system or local nonprofits.

• Texas Eviction Diversion Program – helps eligible renters stop eviction proceedings by providing direct rental payments to landlords.

Key Forms for Texas Rental Assistance

• Texas Rent Relief Application Form (Official Link)
  When to Use: Apply for rent and utility assistance. Complete this form when you need help with current or past due rent, and submit copies of your lease and proof of hardship.
  Example: If you’ve lost your job and cannot pay April’s rent, you fill out and submit this form online for review.
• Declaration of COVID-19-Related Financial Hardship (no longer required for most programs in 2025, but your local program may have a similar hardship form).
  When to Use: If asked by your program or local court, provide evidence or a written declaration of your hardship as part of your rental assistance application.
• Justice Court Answer Form (PDF Form Link)
  When to Use: File this form when responding to a formal eviction lawsuit (called an eviction "petition").
  Example: If you’re served with an eviction notice, fill out this form and submit it to the Justice of the Peace Court by the deadline listed in your paperwork.

Tip: Always use forms from official sources and submit them by the deadlines given with your notice or program instructions.

Which Board or Tribunal Handles Tenancy Matters in Texas?

In Texas, eviction cases and rent disputes are handled by the Justice of the Peace Courts. These are the official local courts that hear landlord-tenant matters. If you are facing eviction, your notice will list which court you must appear in.

For general information and forms, visit the Texas Judicial Branch website.

Your Rights: Texas Tenancy Laws

Your protections as a renter come from the Texas Property Code, Chapter 92 – Residential Tenancies. Key topics include:

• Security of tenure and notices for eviction
• Landlord obligations for repairs and conditions
• Right to apply for rental assistance without retaliation

It’s important to review or ask for help understanding your rights under this law.

Steps to Apply for Rental Assistance in Texas

Applying for rental assistance isn’t complicated, but following each step ensures you receive the quickest help possible. Here’s a quick summary:

• Gather your identification, proof of income, and a copy of your lease.
• Check eligibility for statewide and local grants.
• Fill out the correct application form for your chosen program.
• Submit supporting documents (pay stubs, hardship statements, eviction notice if any).
• Contact your program if you need help with paperwork or tracking your application.

FAQ: Rental Assistance in Texas

1. How do I qualify for rental assistance in Texas?
   Most programs require proof of financial hardship, income below a certain threshold, and Texas residency. Each program may have additional requirements.
2. Can I apply for more than one rental assistance program?
   Yes, as long as you do not receive duplicate benefits for the same expense or period. Always check with program staff before applying.
3. If I get an eviction notice, should I still apply for rental assistance?
   Yes. Filing for rental assistance may help pause court proceedings, and some programs offer legal help during the process.
4. Is rental assistance considered a loan?
   No. Grants from these programs do not have to be repaid if you’ve been truthful and meet eligibility.
5. Where can I check the status of my Texas Rent Relief application?
   You can track your application by logging in to the Texas Rent Relief portal or contacting their helpline.

Conclusion: What Texas Renters Should Know

• Several official grant programs exist to help with rent and utilities in 2025.
• Justice of the Peace Courts oversee tenant-landlord matters—always respond promptly if you receive court paperwork.
• Use official government forms, and seek help if unsure about your rights or the process.

Taking action early and knowing your resources can help you secure stable housing and avoid the stress of eviction.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Texas Rent Relief Program – Applications, updates, and contact info
• Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA)
• TexasLawHelp.org – Free, official self-help legal resources
• Texas Justice of the Peace Courts – Find your local court and official forms
• Texas Property Code, Chapter 92 – Residential Tenancies

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1. Texas Property Code, Chapter 92 – Residential Tenancies
2. Texas Rent Relief Program (TDHCA)
3. Justice of the Peace Courts – Texas Judicial Branch
4. Texas Eviction Diversion Program
5. Official Texas Rent Relief Application Form
6. Travis County Emergency Assistance, Dallas County Emergency Housing Assistance Program, Houston-Harris County Emergency Rental Assistance
7. TexasLawHelp.org

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