As housing affordability continues to challenge families across the United States, Mississippi renters are feeling the strain more than ever. With wages lagging behind rental costs and inflation pushing everyday expenses higher, more tenants are at risk of eviction or long-term housing instability. Whether due to job loss, illness, or recovering from the financial effects of the pandemic, thousands of Mississippi residents are searching for ways to keep a roof over their heads.

Thankfully, there are several rental assistance programs available at the state, county, and nonprofit levels. This comprehensive 2025 guide explains the latest rental aid programs, eligibility requirements, how to apply, and trusted local organizations that can help.

Why Rental Assistance Is Still Needed in Mississippi

Rental assistance is more than a temporary solution—it’s a stabilizing force for families, communities, and local economies. The need remains high due to economic inequality and a mismatch between housing costs and household incomes.

Housing and Income Trends

Several statewide economic trends are driving the continued need for rental support:

• Mississippi ranks among the bottom five U.S. states in terms of median household income, with many families earning under $50,000 per year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

• In contrast, median rental prices have increased by over 20% in parts of the state since 2020.

• COVID-19 eviction moratoriums and enhanced unemployment benefits have expired, removing vital safety nets for low-income renters.

These combined factors make many Mississippians vulnerable to housing insecurity.

Rent-Burdened Households

A household is considered “rent-burdened” when more than 30% of its income goes toward rent. In Mississippi:

• Over 41% of renter households fall into this category, according to 2023 U.S. Census Bureau data.

• Urban centers like Jackson, Gulfport, and Hattiesburg face some of the highest rates of rent burden.

• Rural counties often lack affordable housing options and resources for eviction prevention, compounding the problem in areas with limited public infrastructure.

Key Rental Assistance Programs in Mississippi

There are several active or recent rental assistance programs Mississippians can access, with support available at both the state and community levels.

Mississippi Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP)

Managed by the Mississippi Home Corporation (MHC), the ERAP program provides comprehensive financial support for struggling renters.

• Benefits: Up to 15 months of rent and utility assistance (including back rent)

• Eligibility: Applicants must show financial hardship (e.g., loss of income, increased expenses) and be at risk of homelessness or housing instability

• Priority: Given to households earning below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI) and those with recent eviction filings

• Application: Submit online through the MS-ERAP portal

Mississippi Home Corporation’s RAMP (Rental Assistance for Mississippians Program)

Although now closed, RAMP played a vital role during the pandemic.

• Impact: Helped over 100,000 households and distributed more than $250 million in rental and utility assistance between 2021–2023

• Takeaway: Households that applied early, had complete documentation, and followed up saw the fastest results—a lesson that applies to current programs as well

Local and Nonprofit Assistance Options

In addition to state-run initiatives, nonprofits offer direct aid and wraparound support services:

• Catholic Charities of Mississippi: Offers emergency financial assistance for rent, especially for families and seniors (Website)

• Mississippi United to End Homelessness (MUTEH): Provides rehousing services, rental subsidies, and eviction prevention

• The Salvation Army: Mississippi chapters provide temporary rental help, shelter, and utility support for individuals and families in crisis

County-Level Rental Help Across Mississippi

Many counties also manage their programs or partnerships with local agencies. Here’s a breakdown of available support by region:

Hinds County / Jackson Area

• Urban League of Greater Jackson: Offers emergency rent assistance, especially for Black and minority households

• Jackson Housing Authority & City Services: Provide access to vouchers and referrals to nonprofits

• 2-1-1 Referral Line: Connects residents with emergency assistance and legal aid services

Gulf Coast (Harrison, Jackson, Hancock Counties)

• Open Doors Homeless Coalition: Offers eviction prevention, rapid rehousing, and supportive housing

• Community Development Block Grants (CDBG): Cities like Biloxi and Gulfport use HUD funds for emergency housing assistance

Northern Mississippi (Desoto, Lafayette, Lee Counties)

• Interfaith Compassion Ministries (Oxford): Provides rent and utility assistance for low-income households

• LIFT, Inc. (Tupelo): Offers job support and housing assistance for working families and individuals

How to Apply for Rental Assistance in Mississippi

Understanding the application process is crucial to receiving aid promptly.

Required Documents

Before applying, gather the following:

• Government-issued ID (driver’s license, state ID)

• Proof of income (pay stubs, unemployment letter, or tax return)

• Lease agreement or proof of rental arrangement

• Late rent notice or notice of eviction (if applicable)

• Utility bills (if also seeking utility assistance)

Application Process

Most applications are processed online:

• Visit www.ms-ramp.com to access the Mississippi ERAP application portal

• Assistance is available through community partners listed on the website

• Language support and disability access services are provided in many counties

What Happens After You Apply?

Once you submit your application:

• Processing typically takes 2–4 weeks

• Funds are disbursed directly to landlords and utility providers

• Additional documentation or verification may be requested, so stay alert for follow-ups via email or phone

Key Research and Data

To understand the depth of Mississippi’s rental crisis, consider these recent findings:

These stats reinforce the ongoing need for accessible, equitable rental support programs.

Quotes from Experts

“Rental aid in Mississippi is a lifeline — especially in rural areas where resources are scarce.”
— Scott Spivey, Executive Director, Mississippi Home Corporation

“If you’re behind on rent, don’t wait for an eviction notice. There are programs ready to help, but you must act early.”
— Kimberly Jones, MUTEH Housing Navigator

Real-Life Case Studies

Sharing real stories helps show what’s possible when assistance is accessed in time.

Jackson Family Avoids Homelessness Through RAMP

After the father of the family lost his job during the pandemic, the household faced eviction. By applying to RAMP, they received 12 months of back rent and utility support, allowing them to stay in their home while the father secured new employment.

Gulfport Senior Gets Back on Track with Salvation Army Help

A retired senior battling health issues and a fixed income faced losing her apartment. Thanks to emergency funds from the Salvation Army, she received utility and rent support during recovery—and avoided homelessness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is rental assistance in Mississippi still available in 2025?
Yes. While RAMP is closed, ERAP and various local aid programs are still active and taking applications.

What if I’ve already been evicted?
Programs like MUTEH and local nonprofits offer rehousing assistance and transitional support for those already displaced.

Can I get help with past-due utility bills too?
Yes. Many rental assistance programs also cover utility arrears for eligible applicants.

What if my landlord refuses to participate?
Some programs can offer direct-to-tenant assistance. Contact your program administrator for options.

Can undocumented residents apply for rental help?
Some nonprofit programs offer support regardless of immigration status. Check with local agencies for guidance.

Helpful Resources and Contact Info

• Mississippi ERAP/RAMP Portal: www.ms-ramp.com

• Mississippi Home Corporation: www.mshomecorp.com

• Mississippi United to End Homelessness (MUTEH): www.muteh.org

• 2-1-1 Mississippi: Dial 2-1-1 or visit www.211ms.org

• Legal Services Mississippi: www.mslegalservices.org

Next Steps: How to Get the Help You Need

Here’s what you can do today to take action:

1. Visit www.ms-ramp.com and review the eligibility criteria for Mississippi’s rental assistance.

2. Gather your documentation before applying to speed up the process.

3. Contact 2-1-1 to be referred to local organizations offering emergency rental or utility aid.

4. Apply as early as possible, especially if you’ve received an eviction notice or utility shutoff warning.

5. Follow up regularly to ensure your application is being processed and all paperwork is complete.

Denise M

Originally from Toronto, Canada, Denise Madison, age 34, is an expert in housing policy and rental assistance. Denise earned her Master’s in Public Administration from McGill University, focusing her thesis on the effectiveness of rental assistance programs in major Canadian cities. After graduation, she worked with the Canadian government before transitioning to a consulting role in the United States, aiding in the enhancement of federal housing policies and programs. Denise is known for her practical workshops and seminars aimed at landlords and tenants, fostering better understanding and compliance with housing laws. When not at work, Denise cherishes time with her husband and their three young children, exploring the outdoors and teaching them about the importance of community involvement.