Finding disability-friendly housing can be challenging, but breaking the process into steps can make it easier. Start by identifying your needs, researching available resources, and contacting organizations that specialize in accessible housing.
1. Determine Your Housing Needs
Create a checklist of what you need.
Physical Accessibility
- Wheelchair-accessible entrances
- Ramps and handrails
- Elevators
- Wide doorways and hallways
- Roll-in showers
- Grab bars in bathrooms
- Lower countertops and cabinets
- First-floor units
- Accessible parking spaces
Support Services
- On-site staff assistance
- Personal care services
- Transportation services
- Meal programs
- Housekeeping assistance
- Medication management
Community Needs
- Near grocery stores
- Near hospitals and medical offices
- Public transportation access
- Close to family and caregivers
- Safe neighborhoods
2. Identify Your Funding Sources
Determine which programs you may qualify for.
Possible funding sources include:
- Social Security Administration (SSI or SSDI benefits)
- Medicaid
- U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development housing programs
- State developmental disability programs
- Veterans benefits
- Local housing vouchers
- Nonprofit assistance programs
3. Search for Accessible Housing Programs
Look for:
Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8)
Administered through local housing authorities and can help pay rent.
Learn more:
HUD Housing Choice Voucher Program
Section 811 Supportive Housing
Provides affordable housing for adults with disabilities.
Learn more:
HUD Section 811 Supportive Housing Program
Public Housing Authorities (PHAs)
Search your local housing authority.
HUD Public Housing Authority Directory
4. Contact Your County Board of Developmental Disabilities
If you have an intellectual or developmental disability, your local county board can help you find:
- Shared living arrangements
- Supported living
- Independent apartments
- Group homes
- Roommate matching services
- Housing transition assistance
In Ohio, contact your local county board.
5. Ask Your Service Coordinator or Case Manager
Case managers can help locate:
- Available apartments
- Emergency housing
- Accessible modifications
- Housing subsidies
- Landlord connections
- Waiting list opportunities
Ask questions such as:
- Do you have a housing specialist?
- Are there any open accessible units?
- Are there housing grants available?
- Are there landlord partnerships?
6. Search Disability Housing Directories
Useful websites:
- HUD Resource Locator
- Accessible Space Inc.
- The Arc Housing Resources
- National Low Income Housing Coalition
7. Prepare Documents Before Applying
Gather:
✓ Photo ID
✓ Social Security card
✓ Proof of disability
✓ Benefit award letters
✓ Proof of income
✓ Bank statements
✓ Emergency contact information
✓ Medical documentation (if required)
✓ References
8. Inspect the Property Before Signing
Check:
Exterior
- Accessible entrance
- Ramp condition
- Sidewalk accessibility
- Parking availability
Interior
- Door widths
- Bathroom accessibility
- Kitchen accessibility
- Lighting
- Emergency exits
Safety
- Smoke detectors
- Carbon monoxide detectors
- Security systems
9. Ask About Reasonable Accommodations
Under the Fair Housing Act, landlords may be required to provide reasonable accommodations.
Examples:
- Reserved accessible parking
- Permission for service animals
- Grab bar installation
- Ramp installation
- Transfer to a ground-floor unit
Learn more:
HUD Reasonable Accommodations Guide
Disability Housing Search Checklist
My monthly budget: $________
Preferred city: ________________
Accessibility needs: ________________
Transportation needed: Yes / No
Support services needed: ________________
Funding source: ________________
Target move-in date: ________________