Being unemployed can be stressful. Not only are people busy looking for another job, but they are also stressing about how they are going to pay their bills. The good news is that there are many programs that can help you if you are unemployed and need help with your rent.

Federal Housing Assistance

The federal government can help you if you need help with your rent. Section 8 is one of the most common forms of federal housing assistance. This option allows people to get a voucher for their monthly rent. All or part of the rent may be paid by the voucher. It is important to remember that every complex does not accept Section 8 vouchers.

There are also long waiting lists. In fact, many people stay on the waiting list for over three years before they are able to get approved for Section 8 Housing. However, if you have children, then you will probably be able to get housing a lot more quickly.

The Housing Urban Development also offers subsidized housing. People who live in subsidized housing will be able to pay a reduced rent. Public housing is typically located in the center of cities. These areas are often referred to as the projects.

Unemployed Benefits

If you have not applied for unemployment benefits, then you should definitely consider doing so. You can use your benefits to play for your rent and your other expenses. The amount of unemployment that you get is largely contingent upon the state that you reside in. However, most people are able to get about 60 percent of what they made before they became unemployed.

This means that if you were making $600 a week, then you can get up to $360 per week with unemployment. There are requirements that have to be met in order to get unemployment. You must have lost your job due to something that is out of your control. If you were fired or quit, then you may not be able to get unemployment.

You must also be mentally and physically able to work. You must look for work while you are unemployed. If you work part-time, then you may still be able to get unemployment benefits. However, this is contingent upon how much you make.

You must also have worked for a certain amount of time. The state that you live in will determine how long you will have to work. If you get any income during the time of your unemployment, then you will be required to report this to the unemployment benefits. Keep in mind that if you are currently getting any form of government assistance, then you may still be able to get unemployment benefits. Additionally, you will have to file claims weekly in order to maintain your benefits.

Local Charities

There are likely programs in your area that are offered by non-profit organizations that are designed to provide you with financial assistance. In order to qualify for assistance from one of these programs, you will have to provide your social security number, ID, address and other personal information. Any assistance that you get from a non-profit organization will only be for a short-term basis.

State Housing Assistance

If you are unable to get federal housing assistance, then you may be able to get state housing assistance. The Housing and Urban Development website has a list of resources in your area.

Modest Needs Grant

If you need immediate rental assistance, then you can apply for a Modest Needs Grant. Because this is a grant, you will not have to pay this money back. The money that is used for a Modest Needs Grant is donated by volunteers. You will have to supply income and personal information in order to qualify for a Modest Needs Grant.

Dealing with unemployment is already difficult. The last thing you want to worry about is how you are going to keep a roof over your head. Fortunately, you can get assistance from your federal or local government. You can also get a Modest Needs Grant. Additionally, it is important to apply for unemployment benefits because the benefits you get may be enough to cover your rent and other living expenses.