Facing eviction or losing housing
What to do first
- Do not ignore court papers. Answer by the date on them and go to your hearing.
- Call 211 or your state's rent help program right away.
- Get free legal help. A lawyer can tell you your rights.
- Talk to your landlord about a payment plan, and get it in writing.
- If you have nowhere to stay tonight, call 211 for shelter.
Talk it through
Tell us more about what happened. We answer first, then show the programs that fit, then ask a few questions to narrow it down.
Help from West Virginia
West Virginia programs that fit what happened. Each agency decides who qualifies.
West Virginia Housing Development Fund
Affordable Housing and Rental Assistance Programs
The Fund supports affordable housing programs for eligible residents and housing providers.
Ways to apply:PhonePaperIn person
West Virginia Housing Development Fund
Homelessness Assistance Programs
The Fund supports local partners working to address homelessness in West Virginia.
Ways to apply:PhoneIn person
West Virginia Department of Human Services
Low Income Energy Assistance Program
In West Virginia, LIHEAP is called LIEAP.
LIEAP helps eligible households pay for home heating costs.
Ways to apply:OnlinePaperIn person
West Virginia Department of Human Services
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
SNAP gives eligible households monthly benefits to buy food.
Ways to apply:OnlinePhonePaperIn person
West Virginia Department of Human Services
WV WORKS
In West Virginia, TANF is called WV WORKS.
WV WORKS provides temporary cash assistance and employment support to eligible families with children.
Ways to apply:OnlinePaperIn person
Checked on October 8, 2026
Federal help
These work the same in every state. Each agency decides who qualifies.
LSC.gov
Free legal help
Legal aid offices give free legal help to people with low income. Find the one that serves you with the Legal Services Corporation's search.
HUD.gov
A housing counselor
HUD-approved housing counseling agencies can talk with you about renting, falling behind and keeping your home. Call to find one near you.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)
Help paying rent in a home you choose, for families with very low income, older adults and people with disabilities. Local housing authorities run it, and many have waiting lists.
Apply through your local public housing authority. HUD lists every housing authority by state.
Checked on October 9, 2026
Help near you
Find county and state offices near you, or call 211 to talk to someone about help in your area.
Talk to a person
- West Virginia 211
Free help finding food, housing, bills and more near you.
Call 211 - 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Call or text 988 if you are in crisis or worried about someone. Any time.
Call 988Text 988