Low-income Miami seniors can get $500 a month in rental assistance. Here’s how
If you’re 62 or older and struggling to pay rent, you may qualify for Miami’s Senior Rental Assistance Program.
The city has reopened the program for older residents earning less than 50% of the area median income — people making less than $43,400 in a one-person household or $49,550 in a two-person household — who spend at least 30% of their income on rent.
Eligible residents who live within city limits could receive up to $500 a month in rent assistance for one year. A computerized lottery will select recipients.
Launched in 2019, the program has since grown. When it began, applicants had to spend at least half their monthly income on rent and received $100 per month.
This year’s program budget is just over $1.3 million, more than double what it was last year, according to the city, which reports that it’s already received roughly 300 rental assistance applications.
But that funding expansion has increased with local need.
More than 60% of Miami metro area households are rent-burdened, meaning they spend at least 30% of their income on housing.
An even greater percentage of local seniors struggle to make rent. Of the nearly 25,000 Miami householders — the person listed on a lease — age 65 and older, roughly two-thirds are rent-burdened, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau.
You’re eligible if
- You’re at least 62 years old
- You live in the city of Miami
- Your household earns less than 50% of the area median income ($43,400 for a one-person household, $49,550 for a two-person household)
- You spend at least 30% of your income on rent
- You have an active lease and are up to date on rent payments
How to apply
Pick up a paper application from your nearest district office (open Monday to Friday). The city only accepts paper applications.
Gather required documents:
- a completed program application, including a signed affidavit, which is included as part of the paper application
- a copy of your current executed rental agreement/lease (all pages)
- a copy of your current Florida-issued identification card
- a copy of most recent proof of monthly income (ex: monthly Social Security statement, pension statement or last three pay stubs)
Submit to your district office by Friday, Feb. 20.
This story was produced with financial support from supporters including The Green Family Foundation Trust and Ken O’Keefe, in partnership with Journalism Funding Partners. The Miami Herald maintains full editorial control of this work.
This story was originally published February 10, 2026 at 3:01 PM.
