This guide will walk you through the most reliable resources—from the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) to the statewide 2-1-1 hotline, as well as county-level and nonprofit programs. Whether you’re behind on rent or worried about eviction, there’s help out there.
Statewide Programs and Resources
Even though the big COVID-era funds like the Texas Rent Relief Program (TRR) and Texas Eviction Diversion Program (TEDP) ended in 2023, there are still statewide resources you can lean on.
1. Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA)
TDHCA is the main state agency overseeing housing support. While TRR and TEDP are no longer open, TDHCA continues to connect people with local resources. Through their Help for Texans page, you can find:
- Links to local rental assistance programs
- Eviction prevention and landlord-tenant mediation services
- Utility bill help through local providers
2. 2-1-1 Texas Hotline
2-1-1 Texas, run by the Health and Human Services Commission, is free, confidential, and available 24/7. Calling connects you with someone who can:
- Direct you to emergency rental assistance in your county
- Find utility bill support
- Point you to food, healthcare, and housing resources
Because rental help varies so much from one county to another, 2-1-1 is often the best first step.
Local and County Programs
Rental assistance often depends on where you live in Texas. Here are a couple of examples:
3. Fort Bend County ERA2 Program
This is one of the strongest local options still available. The program provides:
- Up to $2,000/month in rental assistance
- Up to $500/month in utility help
- Support for up to 18 months, or until funds run out
To qualify, you need to live in Fort Bend County, have an income below 80% of the Area Median Income, and show COVID-19–related financial hardship. Apply through the Fort Bend County program portal or call the county housing office.
4. Dallas County (Historical)
Dallas County once offered up to $1,500/month in assistance, but that program ended in 2021. Still, Dallas residents should keep checking with Dallas County Housing Programs or call 2-1-1 since new funds sometimes open up.
Additional Help and Legal Support
5. Texas RioGrande Legal Aid (TRLA)
TRLA provides free legal help for low-income Texans facing eviction, unsafe housing, or landlord disputes. They typically serve households at or below 200% of the federal poverty level across South and Central Texas. If you’ve received an eviction notice, call them right away.
6. Nonprofit and Community Partners
When government aid isn’t enough, nonprofits often fill the gap:
- The Salvation Army – Offers rental, utility, and emergency shelter help (varies by chapter).
- Catholic Charities of Texas – Provides financial assistance and case management to stabilize families.
- Community Action Agencies – Located throughout Texas, these agencies distribute funds for housing, food, and utilities.
Call ahead, since availability depends on current funding levels.
How to Move Forward if You Need Help
If you’re behind on rent, here’s what to do right now:
- Call 2-1-1 Texas for referrals to rental aid, utility help, and eviction prevention services.
- Check TDHCA’s Help for Texans page for local program listings.
- If you’re in Fort Bend County, apply directly to the ERA2 program. If you’re elsewhere, call your county housing office.
- If you’ve received an eviction notice, contact TRLA or another legal aid provider immediately.
- Reach out to nonprofits like The Salvation Army or Catholic Charities for emergency support.
Summary Table of Emergency Rental Assistance in Texas
| Resource | What It Provides | Key Actions |
|---|---|---|
| TDHCA / Help for Texans | Links to local rental and housing programs | Visit TDHCA website for resources |
| 2-1-1 Texas Hotline | Referrals to state and local assistance | Call 2-1-1 (24/7) |
| Fort Bend ERA2 | Up to $2,500/month rent + utilities | Apply through Fort Bend County |
| TRLA | Free legal help for eviction defense | Contact TRLA if eligible |
| Nonprofits (Salvation Army, etc.) | Emergency rent, utility, shelter aid | Call your local chapter |
FAQs About Emergency Rental Assistance in Texas
What is emergency rental assistance in Texas?
It’s financial help to cover unpaid rent and utilities so tenants can avoid eviction or homelessness. Programs may be run by the state, county, or nonprofits.
Is the Texas Rent Relief Program still available?
No. TRR closed in July 2023. But you can still find help through counties (like Fort Bend’s ERA2), nonprofits, or 2-1-1 referrals.
How do I apply?
Start by calling 2-1-1 or visiting TDHCA’s Help for Texans page. You’ll be directed to the right office or nonprofit.
Who qualifies?
Most programs require you to live in the county, earn below 80% of Area Median Income, and show financial hardship such as job loss, medical bills, or higher expenses.
What if I’m facing eviction right now?
Don’t wait. Contact TRLA or another legal aid provider immediately. They may be able to delay or prevent eviction through legal protections.
Conclusion: Getting the Support You Need
Even though the big statewide programs have closed, Texans still have options. Whether you need a one-time payment to stop an eviction or ongoing help with utilities, there are paths forward. The most important thing is to take action quickly—don’t wait until it’s too late.
If you need help today, here’s what to do:
- Call 2-1-1 Texas for immediate referrals
- Check TDHCA’s Help for Texans for local program listings
- Apply directly if you live in a county with active programs like Fort Bend
- Seek legal aid if you’re facing eviction
- Reach out to nonprofits like The Salvation Army or Catholic Charities
You don’t have to go through this alone—support is still out there if you know where to look.
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