Tenant-Based Rental Assistance, or TBRA, is a program funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to help low-income families pay their rent and related housing expenses. These funds are administered at the local level by designated organizations and non-profits in Participating Jurisdictions (PJs) who use the funds to provide help to qualified individuals and families in a number of ways. This can range from rent subsidies to grants and loans for security deposits to help with utility bills and more.

How does TBRA work?

Apartments Rental AssistanceThe criteria for qualifying for TBRA, as well as the ways in which the funds are distributed, vary by city/state, location and the discretion of the local agencies who disburse these funds. This enables each locale to determine the ways in which TBRA can provide the greatest benefit. However, in most cases, TBRA is used to offset the cost of rent, making it more affordable for the tenant. (Section 8 is one common application of TBRA.) The amounts of assistance available depends on several factors, including the cost of housing in the local area and the financial need of the applicant. Also, Tenant-Based Rental Assistance may be designated for use only in specific qualifying housing in the area.

Once you qualify to receive this assistance, TBRA differs from other types of housing assistance in the following ways:

  • Payment is made directly to the landlord, effectively reducing your rent and/or other expenses.
  • TBRA directly benefits the tenants, as opposed to subsidies that directly benefit the housing development (for example, the Low Income Housing Tax Credit).
  • Your TBRA benefits move with you, rather than staying with the landlord. If you have to move, you can use your benefits to help with expenses at the next property you rent.

Who can receive Tenant-Based Rental Assistance?

TBRA is designed to help people with a variety of needs, but it is especially focused on groups of people most prone to difficulty—for example, the disabled, the elderly, families with children and families who are currently facing eviction.

How can I apply to receive TBRA?

If you need help with housing or rent and think you might qualify to receive TBRA, the best place to check is your local HUD counseling agency. For a list of available programs in your area and where to apply, contact Olympia Management today at 256-894-2382.