Quick answer
Low income senior housing includes HUD Section 202 buildings for very low-income households with someone 62 or older, public housing and Housing Choice Vouchers through local housing authorities, and income-restricted senior apartments. Eligibility depends on income limits for your area. Expect waiting lists, so apply to several places. Your Area Agency on Aging (Eldercare Locator, 1-800-677-1116) can point you to local options.
The main programs
| Program | Who it serves | How it works |
|---|---|---|
| HUD Section 202 | Very low-income households (income at or below 50% of area median) with at least one member 62 or older | Rent is subsidized; some buildings offer supportive services |
| Public housing | Low-income households; some buildings are senior-designated | Run by the local housing authority |
| Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) | Low-income households | Voucher helps pay rent in a private apartment |
| Income-restricted senior apartments | Older adults under set income limits | Lower set rents in privately owned buildings |
Who qualifies
Each program sets its own rules. Section 202 requires at least one household member to be 62 or older at move-in and household income no more than 50% of the area median (HUD's "very low income" limit). Income limits differ by county and household size; HUD publishes them each year.
How to apply
- Call your Area Agency on Aging for a list of senior housing: Johnson County Aging and Human Services (Kansas side) or MARC Aging and Adult Services (Missouri side).
- Contact the local housing authority for public housing and vouchers.
- Apply directly to each Section 202 or income-restricted building.
- Keep copies of everything, and check in on your place on each waiting list.
- Have ID, income statements, bank statements and Medicare or Social Security cards ready.
If care is needed too
Low income housing usually doesn't include personal care. Your parent may qualify for help at home through Medicaid waivers: KanCare in Kansas, MO HealthNet in Missouri. See paying for care.
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Questions families ask
What is the income limit for senior housing?
It depends on the program, county and household size. For Section 202, household income must be at or below 50% of the area median income.
How long is the waiting list?
It varies widely by building. Apply to several and keep your information current.
Is HUD senior housing only for people 62 and older?
Section 202 requires at least one household member to be 62 or older. Other programs may use 55 or have no age limit.
Can I get help with rent in assisted living?
Housing programs usually don't apply to assisted living. Medicaid waivers may help with care costs for people who qualify.