If you are a senior who is looking for a new home, you may qualify for discounted housing. This is known as senior housing and consists of apartments and condos that offer you lower rental options provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. It is not the same as assisted living, since you don't get additional services like home care or nursing at the housing communities. They are simply communities for seniors of a certain age who are approved for the discount by HUD. Here are some tips for being approved.
Meet the Age Requirements
There is no single age requirement that every senior housing community will have. Some communities might be as young as 55 while others have a 62 or 65 age limit. This is the first thing you should find out because these communities are very strict. They don't care if you turn a certain age in a month; you need to meet the requirement when you apply for the housing. Make sure you meet the age requirement and can provide valid proof of your current age, as well as anyone that is going to live with you. However, if you have a nurse or live-in aide, they don't have to meet the age requirement.
Fill Out an Application With HUD
Not only do you need to apply for the senior housing community itself, but you must also apply for senior housing with HUD. They will have a separate application process that allows you to show proof of age, proof of income, and other personal information. They will require you to go through the approval process with them first. Once you are approved for low-income housing through HUD, you can then begin looking at different housing communities and get approved.
Show Proof of Income
Even with low-income senior housing, you still need to provide basic information to the housing community to show you will be able to pay your rent on time and in full. This includes showing your proof of income. If you are currently retired, your income will be shown with social security benefits, a retirement or savings account, or a pension fund. No matter what type of income assistance or savings you currently have, make sure you show proof of that when you apply at the housing community (such as ComForcare - Park Ridge).
Get a Cosigner
If you don't have the best credit or your current income is not 2-3 times the cost of the low rent for senior housing, you may need additional help in getting approved by the apartment community. In this case, it helps to have a cosigner. This person should have good credit, a solid rental history, and adequate income with verification. They are signing the lease with you, stating they will take over the rent if you are unable to pay it.
Share20 April 2015
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