In 2025, Florida will remain one of the most challenging housing markets in the United States. Skyrocketing rents, increased demand, and limited affordable housing stock have made security deposits and initial rent costs unaffordable for many residents. For families escaping domestic violence, veterans re-entering civilian life, or individuals simply trying to rebuild after hardship, these upfront costs can be the final barrier between housing stability and homelessness.

The good news? Florida offers a variety of assistance programs—from statewide initiatives to county-based nonprofit support—that can help cover move-in expenses like deposits, first month’s rent, and even utility connections. This guide outlines the most accessible options available in 2025.

What Is Rent Deposit Assistance?

Rent deposit assistance is a form of housing-focused financial aid that helps low- to moderate-income individuals secure rental housing by covering the high upfront costs typically required by landlords.

Definition and Purpose

Before signing a lease, most renters in Florida must pay:

• A security deposit (typically equal to one month’s rent)

• First and sometimes last month’s rent

• Additional fees like application or administrative charges

Rent deposit assistance programs aim to:

• Remove these upfront financial barriers

• Prevent or end homelessness

• Help vulnerable populations stabilize their housing

They are commonly offered to:

• Low-income families and individuals

• People experiencing or at risk of homelessness

• Survivors of domestic violence

• Veterans and military families

• Seniors or individuals with disabilities

Eligibility Requirements

While each program has specific criteria, most require:

• Proof of Florida residency

• Low to moderate household income (often below 80% of Area Median Income)

• Supporting documentation, such as:

  • Lease agreement or rental quote

  • Government-issued photo ID

  • Proof of income or public benefits

  • Eviction notice (if applicable)

Pro tip: Being organized with your documents can accelerate the approval process significantly.

Key Statewide Rent Deposit Assistance Programs in Florida

Florida supports several state-funded and federally backed programs that provide financial assistance for housing needs, including security deposits.

Florida Emergency Financial Assistance for Housing Program (EFAHP)

• Designed for families in imminent housing crises

• Offers one-time financial assistance for moving costs, including deposits

• Administered by Florida’s Department of Children and Families

• Requires proof of emergency (e.g., eviction notice, domestic violence)

Apply through: https://www.myflfamilies.com

SHIP (State Housing Initiatives Partnership)

• Funded by the Florida Housing Finance Corporation (FHFC)

• Administered at the county level

• Provides flexible housing assistance, including:

  • Security and utility deposits

  • Rent subsidies

  • Home repair and rehabilitation (in some counties)

• Each county sets its own eligibility rules and application process

Find your county’s SHIP office: https://www.floridahousing.org

Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF)

• A VA-funded program aimed at housing-insecure veterans

• Covers security deposits, rent arrears, and utility setup costs

• Often includes case management and long-term housing stability services

• Partnered with local VA-approved nonprofits

More info: https://www.va.gov/homeless/ssvf/

Local Resources by Major Florida Counties

Each Florida county also partners with nonprofits and faith-based organizations that provide direct assistance. Here’s where to look by region:

Miami-Dade County

• Camillus House: Offers housing placement, financial aid, and deposit support for homeless individuals and families.

• Miami-Dade Homeless Trust: Administers coordinated entry into housing and services.

Hillsborough County (Tampa)

• Metropolitan Ministries: Provides emergency housing, deposits, and wraparound services.

• Catholic Charities Diocese of St. Petersburg: Offers rent and deposit assistance for families, seniors, and domestic violence survivors.

Orange County (Orlando)

• Christian Service Center: Delivers emergency rent and deposit help.

• Heart of Florida United Way: Runs the 2-1-1 helpline and connects residents to SHIP and EFAHP partners.

Duval County (Jacksonville)

• Changing Homelessness: Leads coordinated housing entry and supports veterans and families with deposit assistance.

• Sulzbacher Center: Offers transitional housing, emergency shelter, and financial support for new leases.

Key Research and Statistics

Understanding Florida’s housing challenges offers insight into why these programs are so crucial.

Angela Silva

Angela Silva, a dedicated 42-year-old consultant specializing in government housing and rental assistance, hails from Sydney, Australia. She completed her education with a degree in Urban Planning from the University of New South Wales. Angela’s career has been marked by her relentless advocacy for affordable housing solutions, where she has worked extensively with both local governments and international agencies in Asia-Pacific regions. Her initiatives have led to the development of sustainable housing projects that cater to low-income families. Outside of her professional environment, Angela enjoys a peaceful life with her partner and their two adopted dogs, engaging in community gardening and urban sustainability projects.