Get help with
rent and housing.

If rent is overdue

Start with your town or city's General Assistance office. Explain your situation and ask about help with rent and any current local programs. 211 Maine can help you find the appropriate contacts.

General Assistance

General Assistance is a municipal program for basic necessities. The Maine DHHS program page explains the application process and how to contact the appropriate office.

1. Find the local administrator. Contact the town or city office and ask about General Assistance application hours and appointments.
2. Explain what you need. Include any deadline, rent balance, or immediate housing concern.
3. Ask what documents to bring. Have information about income, housing costs, bills, and household needs available.
4. Keep the decision. Ask for an explanation of the outcome and any next steps if you do not understand it.

Section 8 / Housing Choice Vouchers

Housing Choice Vouchers help eligible households pay a portion of housing costs. MaineHousing's voucher page explains eligibility, income limits, and the application route.

These programs can involve a waiting list. They are a longer-term option to explore while also looking for help with an immediate rent problem.

• Use the application link on the official program page.
• Keep the confirmation and instructions for updating your application.
• Update your mailing address, phone number, and household information when required.
• Ask the housing authority about waiting-list status, available options, and what happens if you are selected.

Help finding or keeping housing

If you are experiencing homelessness, tell 211 Maine or a shelter case worker what your household needs. Ask about assessment, housing navigation, and whether a rehousing program could fit your situation.

Be specific about practical constraints such as children, mobility needs, transport, or a pet. Ask which services can address them, what is available, and what the next contact should be. A referral does not guarantee a space or rental funding.

Tenant rights and legal help

Notice rules and deadlines depend on the tenancy and situation. Rather than relying on a single deadline, use Pine Tree Legal Assistance's Maine eviction guidance and seek advice about the papers you received.

• Keep the lease, notices, payment records, and messages together.
• Note court dates and response deadlines as soon as you receive papers.
• Ask for advice before signing an agreement you do not understand.
• For conditions, deposits, or other rental issues, browse Pine Tree Legal's rental housing guides.

Official starting points: Maine DHHS General Assistance, MaineHousing vouchers, and Pine Tree Legal Assistance. Program availability and legal advice depend on your circumstances.

A few common questions

How do I apply for Section 8 housing in Maine?

Start with MaineHousing’s Housing Choice Voucher page. It links to the application system and explains eligibility and contacts. Ask the housing authority about current waiting lists and keep your application contact details up to date.

What is General Assistance and how do I apply?

General Assistance is administered through municipalities and can help eligible people with basic necessities. Contact your town or city’s General Assistance office. The Maine DHHS program page explains how to apply and where to ask for help.

Is emergency rental assistance available in Maine?

Programs and funding change. Ask your municipal General Assistance office and 211 Maine what is currently available for your circumstances. If you have an eviction notice, seek legal help promptly as well as exploring financial assistance.