Vermont Rental Assistance Grants: What's Available for 2025

Are you a Vermont renter facing rising housing costs or a temporary loss of income? Understanding your options for rental assistance in 2025 can make a real difference if you’re worried about rent, eviction, or housing insecurity. Vermont offers several grant programs and resources to help ensure you can stay in your home. This guide explains available rental assistance grants, eligibility, required forms, and how to get support.

Rental Assistance Grants in Vermont for 2025

Vermont state and local agencies provide direct rental assistance grants to help low-income renters pay for housing. These programs are designed to assist households who are struggling due to financial hardship, disability, or changes in employment.

Major Vermont Rental Assistance Programs

• Vermont Emergency Rental Assistance Program (VERAP): As of 2025, emergency rental assistance may be available through state and local funding, depending on current government programs. VERAP provided support through 2024, but check Vermont Department for Children and Families Rental Assistance for current application windows and updates.
• Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program: Managed by Vermont State Housing Authority (VSHA), this federal program offers vouchers to help renters pay a portion of their rent. Apply directly with VSHA or partner agencies.
• Local Town & Community Grants: Some Vermont towns provide rental aid or connect residents to local charities. Contact your local Vermont 2-1-1 resource directory for referrals.

Eligibility is generally based on income limits, household size, rental status, and demonstrated need.

Eligibility Requirements

• Must be a Vermont resident renting a home or apartment
• Household income at or below 80% of the area median income (AMI) for most grants
• Experience of financial hardship, risk of housing instability, or high rent burden

Always check the official DCF Rental Assistance page for the most up-to-date program requirements.

Official Forms and How to Use Them

• Rental Assistance Application Form (VERAP):
  • When to use: If you're applying for state emergency rental aid, use the latest version of the VERAP application. As of 2025, the application is online or downloadable from Vermont DCF Emergency Rental Assistance.
  • How to use: Example: You lost a job or faced a medical emergency and can't pay rent this month. Complete the rental assistance application, including documentation of income, hardship, and lease, and submit it online or by mail.
• Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Application:
  • When to use: Apply if you need ongoing help with housing costs and meet income guidelines. Download the form from the Vermont State Housing Authority website.
  • How to use: Example: You're looking for long-term support. Gather your income details and household information, fill out the Housing Choice Voucher application, and follow the VSHA instructions for submission.
• Vermont Emergency Rental Assistance Re-certification Form:
  • When to use: Some programs require you to confirm that you still qualify. If you're already receiving assistance, the agency may request periodic re-certification to keep benefits going. Forms are found at Vermont DCF Emergency Rental Assistance.
  • How to use: Example: You receive a notice that it's time to recertify or update your application. Complete the re-certification form with any new information (such as changes in income or household).

Which Agency Handles Tenancy Disputes in Vermont?

Vermont does not have a separate residential tenancies tribunal. Most rental disputes (such as evictions) are handled through the Vermont Superior Court Civil Division. This is where you would go to file or respond to an eviction notice.

Relevant Vermont Tenancy Legislation

Vermont renters’ rights and landlord obligations are mostly governed by the Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (9 V.S.A. Chapter 137). This law covers rules on rent, evictions, deposits, and notice requirements.^[1]

How to Apply for Vermont Rental Assistance

Applying for rental assistance is typically done online, by mail, or in person. Follow the directions for the program you’re seeking aid from. Here are general steps:

• Check eligibility requirements for the specific program (income, residence, documentation)
• Gather documents: proof of ID, income, current lease, and documentation of hardship
• Complete the appropriate application and submit via the agency’s website or mail
• Follow up with the agency to ensure your application is received and processed

For Section 8 and federal aid, waiting lists may apply due to high demand.

FAQs: Vermont Rental Assistance Grants

1. What rental assistance grants are available in Vermont in 2025?
   Vermont’s main rental assistance options in 2025 include state emergency rental programs (subject to funding), Section 8 housing vouchers, and local or community grants. Always check with the Vermont DCF Rental Assistance page for newly announced programs.
2. Am I eligible for Vermont rental grants if I lost my job?
   If your household income falls below eligibility limits and you’re experiencing difficulty due to job loss, you may qualify. Be prepared to submit documentation of your job loss when applying.
3. What forms do I need to apply for help?
   The main form is the official rental assistance application from Vermont DCF or the Section 8 application if seeking ongoing federal support. Re-certification forms may be required for continued aid.
4. How long does it take to get approved?
   Processing times vary by program, but urgent cases (like pending eviction) are often prioritized. Reach out to the administering agency for case updates.
5. Can I get help even if I have an eviction notice?
   Yes—apply for rental assistance immediately, and seek help from Vermont Legal Aid. Having an active application may help delay your eviction process.

Key Takeaways for Vermont Renters

• Vermont offers state and federal rental assistance grants based on need
• Use official forms from Vermont DCF and VSHA for your application
• The Superior Court handles legal rental disputes
• Get informed and seek help early if your housing is at risk

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Department for Children and Families – Rental Assistance Programs
• Vermont State Housing Authority (VSHA) – Section 8 Vouchers
• Vermont Superior Court Civil Division
• Vermont Legal Aid – Housing Help
• Vermont 2-1-1 Resource Directory for local referrals

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1. Vermont Residential Rental Agreements Act (9 V.S.A. Chapter 137)

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