Winter can be one of the toughest times for renters struggling to make ends meet — higher heating bills, rising energy costs, and seasonal unemployment can create financial hardships. Fortunately, there are several real winter rent assistance programs across the U.S. designed to help you stay housed and keep utilities on.
👇 This guide covers federal, state, and local resources, eligibility basics, links, and tips for getting help.
1. Emergency Rental Assistance Programs (ERA)
What It Is
The Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) program provides funds to help renters who are unable to pay rent and utilities. While earlier rounds (ERA1/ERA2) were part of COVID-related relief, many states still operate ERA-like programs through local funding or state-administered emergency rent aid in 2025–2026.
How to Apply
- Visit your state or county housing authority website.
- Use rental assistance locator tools such as the CFPB Rental Assistance Finder to find programs near you.
➤ CFPB Rental Assistance Finder: https://www.consumerfinance.gov/rental-assistance-finder - Call 2-1-1 — the United Way hotline that connects you to local rent and bill help.
Tips:
- Funds may go directly to landlords or utility companies.
- Eligibility usually depends on income, demonstrable hardship, and local program rules.
Read also: Winter Eviction Prevention Programs
2. Contact 2-1-1: Centralized Help for Rent & Utilities
2-1-1 is the most powerful first stop for renters in crisis.
➤ Dial: 2-1-1 (U.S. nationwide — free)
What You Can Get Through 2-1-1
- Referrals to local rent and utility assistance programs
- Nonprofit charities that provide winter aid
- Information on food pantries, shelters, and heating bill help
You can also search online at https://211.org (enter your ZIP code to find programs near you).
Read More: Winter Hotel Vouchers for the Homeless
3. Federal & State Utility/Heating Assistance Programs
Staying warm in winter often means paying heating and utilities, and some programs help with that — reducing the strain on your budget and making rent more manageable.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
LIHEAP helps low-income households cover heating costs — either directly or through utility credits — which can free up money for rent.
Apply or Learn More:
- U.S. Department of Health & Human Services LIHEAP: https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap
Key LIHEAP Benefits
- One-time winter heating bill assistance
- Crisis assistance if heat is shut off or dangerously low
- May be applied for through your local Community Action Agency or state office.
📍 Example: In Kentucky, LIHEAP’s Winter Crisis Program helps households facing urgent heating issues and those whose winter bills are part of their rent.
Read also: Emergency Cash Assistance During Winter
4. State & Local Winter Rent & Utility Protection Programs
a) New Jersey Winter Termination Program
New Jersey offers a Winter Termination Program that protects eligible households from utility shutoffs and provides energy assistance for winter months.
🔗 Apply / Find Info: https://dcaid.dca.nj.gov/en-US/
This helps keep heating and electric services on — easing overall winter living costs.
b) Local/County Winter Assistance Funds
In some counties (like Indianapolis/Marion County, Indiana), winter-specific funds help residents pay heating or rent when federal programs don’t cover everyone.
➡️ United Way Winter Assistance Fund (Marion County)
- Helps those who don’t qualify for energy assistance
- Typically open Jan–May
Call local United Way or dial 2-1-1 for details.
Read also: Hardship Grants Available During Winter Months
5. Nonprofit & Community Organizations That Help With Rent
Even if federal/state funds are exhausted or limited, local nonprofits can sometimes provide emergency rent support or one-time grants.
Here are examples nationwide:
Catholic Charities
- Offers rent and utility aid through local branches
- Eligibility varies by location
Find a local office: https://www.catholiccharitiesusa.org/find-help/
The Salvation Army
- Offers crisis financial assistance including rent and utility help
- Search local branches: https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/
Cross-Lines Community Outreach (Kansas City)
Provides rent and utility assistance — often referred by United Way or 211.
Local Faith-Based & Community Groups
- Lutheran Services
- Society of St. Vincent de Paul
- Other place-based charities
(Contact via 211 for local referrals.)
Read more: Winter Meal Assistance Programs for Families and Seniors
6. Additional Tips for Getting Assistance
✔ Start Early
Programs like LIHEAP and local winter funds have deadlines and limited funding — apply as soon as possible.
✔ Gather Documentation
Typical requirements include:
- Proof of income
- Lease agreement
- Utility bill
- ID and hardship documentation
✔ Explore Housing Counseling
HUD-approved housing counselors can help you find programs and avoid eviction.
🔗 Find a counselor: https://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/sfh/hcc/hcs.cfm
✔ Know Your Rights
Many states restrict utility shutoffs in winter — ask your utility company or check local law if you’ve applied for heating assistance.
Read also: Free Groceries and Food Assistance Available in Winter
Final Thoughts
Winter rent assistance is real and ongoing — but demand often outpaces funding. Start with 2-1-1, use online finders, apply for LIHEAP, and contact local nonprofits for additional rental assistance. With persistence, many renters can find help to stay housed and warm through the cold season.
Key Links (Save & Bookmark)
| Purpose | Link |
|---|---|
| Federal rent & utility assistance info | https://www.usa.gov/emergency-pay-rent |
| CFPB Rental Assistance Finder | https://www.consumerfinance.gov/rental-assistance-finder |
| 2-1-1 helpline website | https://211.org |
| LIHEAP program info | https://www.acf.hhs.gov/ocs/low-income-home-energy-assistance-program-liheap |
| Catholic Charities | https://www.catholiccharitiesusa.org/find-help/ |
| Salvation Army locations | https://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/ |
| NJ Winter Termination & LIHEAP | https://dcaid.dca.nj.gov/en-US/ |
