On this page:
If you are facing an eviction or struggling to pay your rent, immediate Baltimore County rental assistance is available through a network of government and community programs. Financial hardship can be overwhelming, but understanding your options is the first step toward stability. This resource provides a clear path to accessing emergency grants, eviction prevention, utility support, and long-term housing subsidies to help you protect your housing.
When facing a housing crisis, especially an eviction notice, acting quickly is crucial. A strategic response that addresses both the immediate legal threat and the underlying financial problem is necessary. The following steps provide a clear plan for residents in an acute crisis.
If You Have Received a Court Notice (Failure to Pay Rent)
Receiving a "Failure to Pay Rent" notice is a serious legal matter, but it is not an immediate order to vacate. It is a summons to appear in court, initiating a legal process where you have rights and opportunities to resolve the situation. A landlord cannot legally evict you without a court order and the presence of the Sheriff's office.
1. Seek Immediate Legal Counsel This is the most critical first step. An attorney can identify defenses, negotiate with your landlord, and represent you in court.
2. Gather Your Documents Having this paperwork ready will speed up any application for financial aid.
Emergency Financial Assistance for Imminent Eviction
While seeking legal help, you must also address the financial shortfall. Several organizations may offer emergency grants to stop an eviction.
The Baltimore County Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) is the official government agency that administers federal and local housing programs, from eviction prevention to long-term rental subsidies.
Baltimore County Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD)
The DHCD's mission is to promote adequate and affordable housing for low-income residents of the county.
Eviction Prevention Program and Housing Stability
The county's main initiative for tenants facing immediate housing loss is the Eviction Prevention Program.
The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program (Section 8)
Commonly known as Section 8, this federal program provides a rental subsidy, or voucher, to help low-income families, the elderly, and people with disabilities afford housing in the private market. Families typically pay about 30% of their income toward rent, and the voucher covers the rest.
Open Waiting Lists: Project-Based Vouchers (Actionable Alternatives)
While the general voucher list is closed, an opportunity exists through Project-Based Voucher (PBV) programs. A PBV is tied to a specific apartment unit, not the tenant. Several of these waiting lists in Baltimore County are OPEN, providing a direct path to subsidized housing.
Specialized Voucher Programs
The DHCD also administers programs targeting specific needs.
Non-profits are often the first line of defense in a housing crisis, providing emergency grants and shelter. However, their assistance depends on available funding and specific referral pathways.
Community Assistance Network (CAN)
As the county's official Community Action Agency, CAN is a central hub for services aimed at low-income residents.
St. Vincent de Paul of Baltimore
This organization partners with Baltimore County to prevent homelessness and rapidly re-house those who have lost their homes.
The Salvation Army of Central Maryland
The Salvation Army offers emergency rental assistance with very specific and strict limitations.
Catholic Charities of Baltimore
Catholic Charities manages a vast network of housing programs, with some specifically serving county residents.
Housing stability means more than just paying rent. Utility bills and security deposits are major hurdles that can also threaten housing.
Utility Bill Assistance (Gas and Electric)
Help with utility bills is primarily administered at the state level.
Security Deposit Assistance
The upfront cost of a security deposit is a major barrier to moving.
Knowing your legal rights is a powerful tool for protecting yourself and your housing.
Protection from Discrimination (Fair Housing)
Federal, state, and county laws protect you from housing discrimination based on race, disability, sex, and other protected classes.
The Legal Eviction Process
A landlord cannot simply lock you out or shut off your utilities to force you to leave. These "self-help" evictions are illegal. To legally evict a tenant, a landlord must go to court, get a judgment, and have the Sheriff's office conduct the physical eviction.
Your Right to a Safe and Habitable Home
You have a right to a home that is safe and meets basic standards.
Security Deposits
Maryland law regulates security deposits to protect tenants.
Enforcing your rights often requires legal expertise. Several organizations provide free legal services to low-income tenants.
Maryland Legal Aid (MLA)
MLA is the state's largest provider of free civil legal services.
District Court Help Centers
These walk-in centers provide free limited legal services for people representing themselves.
Pro Bono Resource Center of Maryland (PBRC)
PBRC coordinates volunteer lawyer programs and has partnered with the county to provide free legal assistance to tenants with a court case filed against them.
This directory consolidates key contacts for rental assistance, legal aid, and other housing support services.
| Organization/Program | Type of Assistance | Contact Information (Phone/Website) | Key Eligibility/Status Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emergency & Legal Help | |||
| 211 Maryland Helpline | Information & Referral | Dial 2-1-1 | Your first call to get connected to current local resources. |
| Maryland Legal Aid | Free Legal for Evictions | 410-427-1800 | mdlab.org | For income-eligible tenants. Call immediately if you get a court notice. |
| District Court Help Center | Free Limited Legal Help | 410-260-1392 (Phone/Chat) | Helps with court forms and process if you don't have a lawyer. |
| Government Programs | |||
| Baltimore County DHCD | Eviction Prevention, Vouchers | 410-887-8383 | baltimorecountymd.gov/housing | Main county office. Eviction program status varies. |
| DHCD Project Vouchers | Subsidized Housing | Apply at baltimorecounty.myhousing.com | OPEN LISTS for seniors (62+) and disabled households. |
| DHCD Housing Choice Voucher | Section 8 Subsidy | N/A | WAITING LIST IS CLOSED. Do not apply at this time. |
| Non-Profit Assistance | |||
| Community Assistance Network (CAN) | Emergency Rent, Security Deposit | 410-285-4674 | canconnects.org | Funding is limited and often closes. Check website for current status. |
| St. Vincent de Paul | Homelessness Prevention | Referral via DSS: 410-853-3000 (Opt 2) | Must be referred by the Dept. of Social Services for county programs. |
| The Salvation Army | One-Time Rent Help | 410-783-2920 ext. 50118 | Only covers current month's rent; past due must be paid first. |
| Utility & Other Aid | |||
| MD Office of Home Energy (OHEP) | Utility Bills (Gas/Electric) | 1-800-332-6347 | dhs.maryland.gov/ohep | Income-based eligibility. Apply year-round before you get a turn-off notice. |
| Fuel Fund of Maryland | Emergency BGE Help | fuelfundmaryland.org | For BGE customers with a turn-off notice. Limited funding. |
If you receive an eviction notice, seek legal help immediately. Free services are available through Maryland Legal Aid or the Pro Bono Resource Center of Maryland. These organizations can review your case, provide legal advice, and may offer representation in court, which is a critical step in preventing homelessness.
Yes, while the general waiting lists are often closed, some Project-Based Voucher programs are specifically for seniors. Contact the Baltimore County Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) or Maryland Access Point of Baltimore County at 410-887-2594 to inquire about open waiting lists for senior housing developments.
Some non-profits and state programs can offer security deposit assistance, though funds are often limited. Organizations like the Community Assistance Network (CAN) and programs through the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) may provide this help. It's best to contact them directly for current availability.
For immediate, emergency shelter needs in Baltimore County, call the Coordinated Entry hotline at 410-887-8463. This system is the central point of access for all county-supported emergency shelters and crisis housing programs, connecting individuals and families with available beds and supportive services to address their urgent situation.
Section 8 (Housing Choice Voucher) is a long-term federal program that subsidizes rent in the private market for low-income families, but waiting lists are long and often closed. Emergency rental assistance grants provide short-term, one-time financial help to prevent immediate eviction or utility disconnection due to a temporary crisis.
Yes, the Maryland Office of Home Energy Programs (OHEP) offers grants like the Maryland Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) and the Electric Universal Service Program (EUSP). These programs provide financial assistance for heating and electric bills for income-eligible households throughout Baltimore County to ensure housing stability.
Be wary of anyone demanding fees upfront for assistance program applications or guaranteeing approval. Legitimate government agencies and non-profits do not charge for applications. Never provide personal information or money to unverified sources. Always contact organizations directly through their official websites or phone numbers to confirm their legitimacy.
Faith-based and community organizations like The Salvation Army and St. Vincent de Paul of Baltimore often provide limited, emergency rental assistance. Calling 2-1-1 Maryland is also an excellent resource, as they maintain a database of local charities and non-profits that may have available funds for residents.
Typically, you will need a photo ID for all adults, social security cards for everyone in the household, proof of residency (like a current lease), and proof of all household income for the last 30 days. Having these documents ready can speed up the application process for any available assistance.
Waiting lists for major programs like the Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) open infrequently, sometimes only once every several years, depending on funding and turnover. For the most current information, it is crucial to regularly check the official Baltimore County Department of Housing and Community Development website.
Facing financial hardship and concerned about your rent in Baltimore County? Discover comprehensive rental assistance programs designed to provide crucial support and help you maintain stable housing. This essential guide outlines available aid, eligibility, and how to access resources that can prevent eviction and offer peace of mind.
Curious about paying off your loan early? While it might seem like a smart move, some lenders levy "prepayment penalties"—fees that could unexpectedly increase your costs. Understanding these clauses is crucial to making informed financial decisions and avoiding unwelcome surprises.
Immediate hotel vouchers offer a rapid solution for Texans experiencing homelessness, providing crucial temporary shelter and a first step towards stability. Delve deeper to understand how these programs function across the state, connecting individuals and families with urgent housing aid when they need it most.