HUD Plans May Add Limits on Housing Assistance and Work Requirements
- Author: Aubrey Sipes
- Posted: 2025-06-10
Read about: Understanding Rental Assistance: A Comprehensive Guide
An internal document obtained by NPR has revealed these potential changes, which could significantly impact millions of Americans relying on housing subsidies.
Currently, only a few local housing authorities have been granted the flexibility by Congress to impose such restrictions. However, HUD is drafting a proposal that would allow far more housing authorities to adopt time limits and work requirements, bypassing Congress in the process.
While HUD has not officially confirmed the details of the plan, a spokesperson referred to President Trump’s 2025 budget proposal, which includes a two-year limit on rental assistance. According to the spokesperson, the approach aims to empower families to achieve economic independence.
If the proposal becomes a formal rule, it will go through a public comment period before being finalized and may face legal challenges due to the lack of congressional approval.
New Policies Could Affect Millions
Approximately nine million Americans currently receive federal housing assistance, with most of these individuals likely being elderly or disabled groups, who are likely exempt from the new restrictions. However, the changes could impact millions of other individuals and families.
Advocates and housing experts warn that such policies could lead to devastating consequences, especially as rent costs continue to rise nationwide.
Deborah Thrope, deputy director at the National Housing Law Project, argues that time limits and work requirements don't make housing more affordable, nor do they help increase wages for families struggling to pay rent.
Research suggests that time limits and similar policies may not increase employment or reduce dependence on subsidies. Thrope notes that many people who can work already do, while others may be caring for children, family members with health problems, or unable to afford childcare.
The Push for Time Limits
Supporters of the proposed changes argue that time limits would redistribute scarce housing aid among more people. According to Howard Husock, a senior fellow at the conservative American Enterprise Institute, the current system is inefficient because eligible individuals can stay on rental assistance indefinitely.
Husock contends that a time limit could encourage upward mobility, but he emphasizes that such policies should be introduced alongside measures like fixed rents and savings programs to help families financially progress.
Despite these claims, critics are skeptical — especially given that President Trump’s proposed budget would slash HUD funding by 43% and eliminate programs that promote financial self-sufficiency.
Mixed Results From Previous Experiments
Out of the 3,300 housing authorities across the nation, fewer than 140 have the flexibility to set their own policies for time limits or work requirements. Among these, only 40 have ever tried such measures, and just 20 use them today.
For example, Keene Housing in New Hampshire implemented a five-year time limit but later abandoned it. Officials discovered that the time limit hadn’t helped residents increase their income significantly, meaning many would end up back on waiting lists.
Joshua Meehan, president of the Moving to Work Collaborative, which advocates for housing authorities experimenting with new policies, said strict time limits haven’t delivered the expected outcomes.
Potential Ripple Effects
Even if more housing authorities adopt time limits, experts worry about the broader implications. Forced turnover among renters with housing vouchers could destabilize affordable housing markets, discouraging landlords from continuing to participate in federal programs.
Some fear this could worsen the housing crisis further. A HUD employee familiar with the plan expressed concerns about potential increases in homelessness and noted that private developers may be less likely to invest in affordable housing if subsidies are cut abruptly.
The debate surrounding these proposals highlights the struggle between addressing housing shortages and the risks associated with limiting resources for individuals already struggling to pay rent.
Government Rental Assistance Programs
If you're seeking assistance with housing costs, there are several government aid programs designed to help people afford their rent. It's vital to explore these options early to understand the available support and how to access it.
- Local Housing Authority: Your first step should be to contact your local housing authority. They manage a range of government programs that offer rental assistance and can guide you on how to apply.
- The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): HUD provides various assistance programs, including the Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8), which helps low-income families, the elderly, and the disabled afford decent, safe, and sanitary housing in the private market. You can learn more about HUD programs, eligibility criteria, and application processes on their official website.
- 211: By dialing 2-1-1, you can connect with community services in your area, including government-run rental assistance programs. It's a valuable resource for finding detailed information and assistance in your specific location.
- Benefits.gov: This online portal allows you to search for federal assistance based on your needs, including rent support. It's an excellent tool for exploring which government aids you might be eligible for and how to apply. Visit Benefits.gov and use the Benefit Finder tool to discover more.
Each of these resources can provide valuable information and direct you towards the assistance you need.
Be prepared to provide detailed information about your financial situation, as each program has its unique eligibility requirements. Acting promptly can improve your chances of receiving assistance and securing your housing situation.
-
Read more: Property Tax Relief Plans May Benefit Homeowners and Businesses
