GENERAL TIPS
- When you apply for subsidized units you are usually added to a waitlist, which may be very long. The sooner you get your name on the waitlist, the better. When a unit becomes available, the housing entity makes multiple calls to those on the waitlist. If you are contacted, be ready to move in quickly.
- If you move or change your phone number while on a waitlist, update your contact information with every housing entity where you have applied. For state-aided public housing, you can change your contact information on the CHAMP website.
- Fill out applications completely. Keep a copy of every application and supporting documentation.
- When you submit an application in person, get a receipt. Keep all receipts and records of housing documents in a file.
- Read instructions thoroughly. Communicate in the way requested – some housing entities require all questions or updates be in writing, while some may allow for phone calls.
- Be sure to include preferences or priorities (facing eviction, homeless, displaced due to fire, veteran, domestic violence, etc.). Housing authorities also give priority to town residents. If you qualify for a preference or priority, you will move up the waitlist more quickly.
DOCUMENTS YOU MIGHT NEED
- Birth certificate
- Photo identification
- Social Security card
- Proof of income, including pay stubs, tax forms, bank statements, Social Security statements or statements from government agencies about benefits
- Proof of immigration status of all household members
- Proof of your current living arrangements
- Landlord history and contact information
- Personal references
- Documents showing you have a disability, if applicable
COMMON HOUSING APPLICATION OF MASSACHUSETTS PROGRAMS (CHAMP)
The CHAMP Application is an online system that lets you submit your application to one or more housing authorities for state-aided public housing and the Alternative Housing Voucher Program (AHVP). You are able to manage all applications through CHAMP, such as updating contact information or adding and removing applications. To submit a CHAMP application, visit
publichousingapplication.ocd.state.ma.us
FEDERAL PUBLIC HOUSING
Federal public housing is administered by local housing authorities. You cannot apply for federal public housing through the CHAMP system. For more information about eligibility requirements, rents and applications for federal public housing, please call a local housing authority. For a list of housing authorities across the state, visit: www.mass.gov/service-details/local-housing-authority-contact-listing
HOUSING NAVIGATOR MASSACHUSETTS
Housing Navigator Massachusetts is a free online system for finding accessible and affordable housing rentals across the state, including public and private subsidized housing options. Properties can be filtered by location, age and/or disability restrictions, amenities, and more. Click here for more information about Housing Navigator MA: search.housingnavigatorma.org
MASSHOUSING.COM
Search for MassHousing-financed properties, including affordable rental units. Contact the management company to inquire about unit availability and the application process. Click here to reach masshousing.com: https://www.masshousing.com/en/renters/housing-list
METRO HOUSING BOSTON
This nonprofit agency offers an online apartment search, guidance on applying for housing vouchers, and affordable housing workshops. It also operates the Housing Consumer Education Center for residents of Brookline, Newton, Belmont, Watertown and Waltham. The center specializes in online and in-person services for tenants, landlords, homeowners, homebuyers, unhoused individuals, and residents facing eviction. Click here for more information about MetroHousing Boston: www.metrohousingboston.org
SMOC (SOUTH MIDDLESEX OPPORTUNITY COUNCIL)
This nonprofit agency manages several properties of their own, and also operates the Housing Consumer Education Center for residents of Ashland, Dover, Framingham, Holliston, Hopkinton, Hudson, Marlborough, Natick, Needham, Sherborn, Sudbury, Wayland, Wellesley, Weston. The center specializes in online and in-person services for tenants, landlords, homeowners, homebuyers, unhoused individuals, and residents facing eviction. Click here to reach SMOC: www.smoc.org
MY MASSHOME
MyMassHome is an online listing and search tool for accessible and affordable homeownership in Massachusetts. Find information about MassHousing Loans and Down Payment Assistance as well as Massachusetts Independent Living Centers, Housing Resources for People with Disabilities, Housing Search Guide, Home Modification Loan Program, and MassAbility (formerly MRC.) Click here to reach My MassHome: https://www.mymasshome.org/
Springwell does not license, endorse, or recommend any providers. Individuals are encouraged to evaluate and choose appropriate resources. All efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of this information; however, it is subject to change. Programs may be funded by MA Executive Office of Elder Affairs and the Federal Administration for Community Living.