Resources for housing and energy assistance

Times can be hard and many North Carolinians are challenged by affordable housing, rising property and utility costs and more. AARP, your wise friend and fierce defender, has compiled a handy list of housing assistance programs. With winter coming, let us help you find resources that can help you reduce your stress without compromising your health or safety,

Property Tax-Aide
If you are elderly, disabled, or a disabled veteran and fall below certain income limits, you may be eligible to receive money back on your property tax. The application deadline is June 1 each year. Click here for more information.

Eviction Information
Tenants looking for legal help can contact these free resources. Income limits may apply:
Legal Aid of North Carolina
Call: 866-219-5262 toll-free
North Carolina Bar Foundation
Call: 919-677-0561

For more information and a list of resources, NC 2-1-1 is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Call 2-1-1 or visit their website.

Rental Assistance/Housing Counseling
Call- 211 or visit NC211.org and select Basic Needs and then Housing/Shelter

· NC Housing Search lists some of the available affordable housing units across NC. Call 877-428-8844 or visit their website to learn more.

· The US Deptartment of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides a searchable visit their website to learn more.

Weatherization and Energy Bill Assistance:

NC Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) helps low-income North Carolinians save energy and stay safe in their homes. Find your local provider here.

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) provides low-income households that include a person age 60 or older with a one-time vendor payment to help pay their heating bill. Call 919-855-3400 or click here to learn more.

Veterans Benefits
If you are a veteran with a disability, the US Dept. of Veterans Affairs (VA) is ready to assist you with your housing needs. AARP has prepared a handbook to help you navigate the application process.
View the AARP Veterans Home Modification Benefits Guide

· Operation Homefront provides short-term financial assistance to veterans, active duty, and their families. Click here to check availability and assistance provided.

USDA Rural Development Assistance
Very low-income homeowners in rural areas can apply for assistance with home repairs and modifications. Check program eligibility here.

Home and Community Care Block Grant (HCCBG)
Housing and home improvement services provide minor repairs to owner- and renter-occupied homes in some counties in NC. Renter-occupied homes must have written permission from the landlord.
Find a link to a local program provider.

NC Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA) Owners and renters can access many housing resources through NCHFA.
Call 919-877-5700 or visit their website.

Please note that AARP does not offer most of the resources listed here. Any information you provide to the host organizations will be governed by their privacy policies.