Housing is one of the biggest expenses we deal with on a day-to-day basis. Many seniors rely on Social Security for the majority of their income, and Social Security benefits are modest (about $14,000 per year according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities as of 2010). This creates a need for affordable housing for seniors, and South Carolina is working to meet this need through low-income and subsidized housing and other assistance for its senior citizens.
Housing Choice Vouchers
Housing Choice Vouchers provide rental assistance to low-income households. The vouchers are federally funded but distributed through local public housing authorities located throughout South Carolina. The public housing authority offices determine eligibility for vouchers; generally they review your income and assets and the size and make-up of your household. If you're approved, the voucher is paid directly to the landlord of the rental property you choose. You can choose any rental property as long as it accepts the vouchers and the public housing authority deems it healthy and safe. For more information, contact your local public housing authority office.
Finding Housing
The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) website offers an affordable apartment search for all states, including South Carolina. You can narrow choices according to type of housing, including senior housing, and number of bedrooms. You also can narrow the search by city or by zip code. The MySeniorCare website is another senior housing search site; you can search by zip code and type of housing (independent, assisted living, etc.) you're looking for (see References).
Utility Assistance
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps with expensive utility costs. LIHEAP is a federally funded program, but it's administered through local offices. To qualify, your income has to meet specific guidelines, which are $16,245 for a one-person household and $21,855 for two people as of June 2011. LIHEAP also provides funds for emergency help, like heat being shut off during winter. To apply, contact your local county assistance office, and be sure to mention that you're a senior so they prioritize your application.
SSI
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a monthly benefit for low-income seniors, the blind and the disabled. It's administered through Social Security, but it's paid through general taxes, not Social Security taxes. To qualify, you need to have a low income and few assets or savings. You can have up to $2,000 as an individual or $3,000 as a couple. You also have to give Social Security permission to access your financial records for verification. To apply, contact your local Social Security office.
Tags: Social Security, public housing, South Carolina, contact your, contact your local, housing authority, public housing authority
