Relocating can be significantly challenging if you face financial constraints or unexpected circumstances. Fortunately, relocation assistance programs (RAPs) provide support and resources to those in need. These programs aim to alleviate the burdens associated with moving by offering financial aid and housing assistance.
Federal RAPs, nonprofits and local charities assist a diverse range of individuals. Whether you’re military seeking relocation, a dedicated public servant eyeing your dream home or someone experiencing unexpected hardships, there may be a RAP you qualify for.
“These programs can bridge the gap for families who wouldn’t be able to move or buy a home otherwise,” said Donna Deaton, managing vice president at RE/MAX Victory + Affiliates in Liberty Township, Ohio.
Which federal relocation assistance programs are available to people in need?
You may be eligible for federal relocation assistance if you are facing financial difficulties that prevent you from buying a new home or moving to a new location or if a natural disaster or government action has disrupted your life. These national programs aim to help individuals and families deal with the challenges of resettlement and provide financial support to cover the moving costs.
Emergency Solutions Grants Program
The Emergency Solutions Grants Program (ESG) is a federal initiative that provides emergency shelter and support services to individuals and families experiencing homelessness or at risk of eviction.
One of several RAPs administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), ESG allocates funding to local government organizations that provide emergency shelters, rapid rehousing assistance, homelessness prevention services, and essential support services such as case management, job training and mental health counseling.
For more information about ESG programs, contact your local HUD field office.
Good Neighbor Next Door Program
The Good Neighbor Next Door Program (GNND) is a federal initiative to revitalize communities and promote homeownership. This unique program offers eligible law enforcement officers, teachers, firefighters and emergency medical technicians the opportunity to purchase homes in the areas they serve.
Eligible participants can purchase HUD-owned homes at a 50% discount if they commit to living in the property for at least three years. These homes are located in areas designated by HUD as needing economic and community development. It’s important to note that available homes are limited, and the list of available homes changes weekly.
Visit the GNND Program website to learn more about eligibility requirements and available HUD homes in your area.
Individuals and Households Program
The Individuals and Households Program (IHP) offers financial and direct aid to eligible individuals and households impacted by disasters through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). IHP assistance is designed to supplement, not replace, insurance coverage and cannot cover all losses incurred during a disaster. However, it aims to address basic needs and support immediate disaster recovery efforts.
IHP assistance may include temporary housing units, support for repairing or replacing primary residences, hazard mitigation funds and other disaster-related expenses.
You can apply for assistance at DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-3362.
Real Estate Acquisition and Relocation program
The Real Estate Acquisition and Relocation program aids individuals and families facing displacement due to federally funded projects. For example, if the government needs to demolish your home to build a highway or hospital, you may qualify for this assistance program.
It provides comprehensive support to eligible participants, including financial assistance to purchase a new comparable home, relocation expenses, temporary housing and counseling services to navigate the challenges associated with moving.
Contact your local HUD regional relocation specialist for more information.
Rural Housing Service
The Rural Housing Service (RHS) division of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) administers programs to improve the quality of life and economic opportunities in rural areas.
RHS relocation assistance programs aim to support low-income individuals or families who need to relocate for various reasons, such as the redevelopment of their current location, natural disasters or other circumstances that render their current housing uninhabitable.
One key program the RHS offers is the Section 502 Direct Loan Program. It provides low-interest loans to individuals and families in rural areas to purchase, build, repair or rehabilitate their homes.
Contact your local USDA Rural Development Area Office for more information and assistance.
Veteran housing assistance
VA housing assistance, administered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), assists military veterans and their families in relocating. It provides financial aid, counseling, resources to cover moving budgets and access to favorable VA home loans.
To ensure veterans’ needs are met effectively, VA housing assistance offers personalized support — including help finding stable housing and navigating local markets. “The VA takes care of its veterans,” Deaton said. “VA loans come with no down payment, no mortgage insurance and competitive interest rates from lenders.”
For details on eligibility and assistance, contact your local VA office.
What charities or nonprofits offer relocation assistance programs?
If you lack sufficient financial resources to move, charities and nonprofits can be valuable sources of assistance. These organizations offer relocation assistance to help individuals and families navigate the complexities of moving and resettlement. Whether it’s due to job loss, domestic violence or natural disasters, these organizations provide support and resources to those in need during times of transition.
Modest Needs
Modest Needs is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing poverty and homelessness by providing short-term financial assistance to individuals and families facing unexpected expenses.
Modest Needs’ primary offering, the Self-Sufficiency Grant, supports individuals and families just above the poverty line who are often ineligible for typical social assistance but remain vulnerable to financial crises, potentially leading to homelessness. They prioritize community contributors such as public school teachers, first responders, veterans and active-duty military personnel who lack support from conventional agencies. The grant aims to prevent people from facing devastating losses due to short-term emergencies.
Visit the Modest Needs website to learn how to apply.
The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army offers various social services to help individuals and families in need. Their programs may provide financial assistance for moving services, temporary housing, rent payments, mortgage payments or utility payments.
Visit salvationarmyusa.org and enter your ZIP code to learn about relocation assistance in your area.
Catholic Charities USA
Catholic Charities USA is a national network of 168 local agencies that provide a wide range of social services, including relocation assistance to individuals and families in need. Their programs may offer financial support for moving expenses, transportation costs or temporary housing for those experiencing hardship or crises.
It also provides comprehensive long-term housing solutions in some areas. A prime example is The Caritas Village Project in Santa Rosa, California, an entire city block of development that offers affordable housing units and a range of family and homeless support services.
Use the Catholic Charities USA agency locator to find an agency near you.
Young Women’s Christian Association
The Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) operates in major cities across the U.S., standing out for its unique approach to empowering women and combating racism. It offers a range of programs and services tailored to the needs of individuals and families, such as financial aid for relocation, housing support and specialized counseling for survivors of domestic violence.
For instance, the YWCA of Greater Pittsburgh offers a housing stabilization program that helps individuals apply for grants to cover costs such as rent, utilities and security deposits.
Use the Find Your YWCA map to locate your nearest YWCA branch.
What other relocation assistance programs are available?
In addition to federal, nonprofit and charitable relocation assistance programs, alternative programs and resources are available to help with moving expenses and other relocation challenges. Here are a few examples.
Employee assistance
Many companies offer employee assistance programs to support employees during significant life events, including relocation. These programs may provide counseling services, financial planning assistance or resources to help employees navigate the challenges of moving to a new area.
Contact your human resources department to learn about available relocation benefits and the application process.
Relocation incentives
Government agencies, private companies or independent organizations can offer relocation incentives to encourage individuals to move to specific regions or industries. These incentives may include financial assistance, such as cash bonuses, reimbursement, subsidized housing, and non-monetary incentives, such as job training or educational opportunities.
For example, Mattoon, Illinois, launched its initiative Move to Mattoon to attract remote workers and boost local economic growth. Individuals approved for the incentive program receive $5,000 for moving expenses, $2,555 in local gift cards and a $500 voucher for local restaurants.
Some corporations also offer moving assistance programs. “We have a lot of clients in Cincinnati who’ve transferred for work,” Deaton said. “The companies will cover the cost of movers, and I’ve seen them cover closing costs for home purchases, too.”
Tax deductions for moving expenses
Active military members can deduct moving costs from their federal taxes when they move for a military order and permanent change of station.
Before 2018, qualifying households could also deduct moving expenses from their federal taxes if they moved over 50 miles for work. After the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, federal tax deductions for moving expenses are only available to military families.
For more information and if you qualify, visit the IRS website.
Who qualifies for relocation assistance programs?
Relocation assistance programs are typically available to individuals or families facing job relocation, financial hardships, military deployment, or displacement due to natural disasters or government actions.
Qualification criteria vary depending on the specific program, but standard eligibility requirements often include demonstrating financial need, proving residency or employment status and meeting certain income thresholds.
Documentation commonly needed to apply for RAPs includes proof of identity, proof of residency or employment, proof of income or financial hardship, and documentation related to the reason for relocation, such as a job offer letter or military orders. Additionally, you may be required to provide documentation of your current living situation, such as lease agreements or utility bills, to demonstrate your need for assistance.
How do you apply for a relocation assistance program?
Applying for a RAP typically involves meeting eligibility requirements and providing the necessary documentation. There may also be interviews or meetings as part of the application process. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
- Research programs: Research RAPs available in your area or specific to your circumstances, such as job relocation or disaster assistance. “The biggest challenge might be finding programs you qualify for,” Deaton said. For government assistance, use the benefits finder tool at benefits.gov.
- Review eligibility: Carefully review the eligibility requirements to see if you qualify based on factors such as your income, residency, employment status and reason for relocation.
- Gather documentation: Collect the required documentation to support your application, including proof of identity, residency or employment, income or financial hardship, and any documentation related to the reason for relocation.
- Complete application forms: Fill out the forms, ensuring accurate and honest completion of all required fields.
- Apply: Submit your completed application and the required documentation to the appropriate agency or organization administering the program. Be sure to follow any specific submission instructions provided.
- Attend interviews or meetings: Sometimes, you’ll have interviews, meetings or calls as part of the application process. Be prepared to discuss your circumstances and provide additional information as needed.
- Wait for approval: Once you submit your application, wait for notification of acceptance or denial from the program. Getting a response may take some time, depending on the volume of applications and the complexity of the review process.
- Follow up as needed: If the organization requests additional information or documentation during the review process, promptly provide the requested materials to avoid delays in processing your application.
- Receive assistance: If your application is approved, you will receive instructions on accessing the program’s benefits. Follow any guidelines or requirements for using the assistance effectively.
- Keep records: Keep copies of all application materials, correspondence and documentation for your records.
What’s next?
Research online resources such as government websites and non-profit organizations to find relocation assistance programs for which you qualify. Contact local government agencies and inquire about available programs in your area. Additionally, check with your employer for any relocation benefits they offer.
Use your network for referrals and recommendations, and carefully review eligibility criteria before applying.
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