Home · Rental assistance · California
Free help · CaliforniaRental assistance in California: how to find help paying rent
Start here
If you're struggling to pay rent in California, help exists — and it's free to look for. Start with a free call to 2-1-1, then use this page to find your local public housing agency, current rental assistance programs, and other free resources for renters in California.
Educational — information, not legal advice. See renter rights in California.
Where to find help in California
- Call 211 · in a crisis, call or text 988 (or visit 211.org) — the fastest way to find local California rent help, food, and services.
- Find your local Public Housing Agency (for Section 8 / vouchers) in HUD's Housing Choice Voucher directory.
- Find free legal aid and tenant help for California at lawhelp.org.
- Look for your California state housing or community-affairs agency and local nonprofits for current programs.
- Read HUD rental assistance.
Applying for legitimate rental assistance is always free. Anyone who asks you to pay a fee to apply, to "jump" a waitlist, or to guarantee approval is a red flag.
You don’t have to figure it out alone.
Renter Shield helps you understand your rights, organize your situation, and reach the right free help — free to start.