Need Help Paying Rent in Dallas, TX? These Orgs Might Be Able to Help

Living in Dallas, TX has a lot of perks—great neighborhoods, a strong job market, and no shortage of places to put down roots. But beneath the city’s big energy and endless opportunity is a financial strain many renters are feeling more than ever. Nearly a quarter of Dallas households now spend over 50% of their income on rent, while close to half are considered rent-burdened, meaning they spend over 30% of what they earn just to keep a roof over their head. With the cost of living only continuing to grow, many families are now seeking support.

If you’re looking for help paying rent in Dallas, TX, this guide is for you. Whether you’re searching for a last minute helping hand or a long-term safety net, you’re not alone. Across the city, you’ll find a handful of organizations meant to step in when the numbers just aren’t working out. From local nonprofits and city-sponsored relief programs to church networks and food support services, this article will walk you through some of the best options for rental assistance in Dallas. 

Quick Tips Before You Apply

Competition for rental relief funding in Dallas is almost always fast and intense. Many programs run on monthly or quarterly cycles, and application windows often close quickly once all the funds have been claimed. The more prepared you are, the better, so before you start filling out forms or calling offices, take a moment to get organized. Most programs in Dallas will want:

• A copy of your lease or rent ledger 
• A government-issued photo ID for all household members (Driver’s license, passport, birth certificate, etc.)
• Proof of residence
• Your most recent pay stubs, benefits statement, or other proof of income
• Proof of housing instability (Documentation showing why you’re behind on rent, such as past due rent notice, eviction notice, a letter from your landlord, etc.)
• Contact information for your landlord

Some programs may also require your landlord to complete a verification form or accept payment on your behalf, which is why it’s helpful to loop them in early. Letting them or your property manager know you’re applying shows that you’re being proactive and might open the door for more flexibility while you wait for support. 

If you’re applying to more than one program, keep digital copies of everything in a single folder so that you can respond quickly when opportunities open up. Most organizations set strict deadlines, and that means they won’t make exceptions when you can’t find an essential document or respond in time. 

Dallas-Based Organizations Offering Rental Assistance

The organizations listed below work within the local community, serving neighborhoods from Pleasant Grove to Lake Highlands. They understand the challenges renters face across different parts of the city and offer different types of assistance for those who qualify. 

1. Dallas Rental Assistance Collaborative

In May 2020, during the thick of the COVID-19 pandemic, United Way of Metropolitan Dallas brought together a group of local nonprofits to form the Dallas Rental Assistance Collaborative (DRAC). The goal was to make it easier for people to stay housed during a time when job losses, medical bills, and uncertainty were rampant. What started as an emergency response has since grown into one of the city’s most important resources. 

DRAC works by routing your application to the partner(s) serving your zip code, whether that’s Catholic Charities, The Wilkinson Center, or another trusted organization. By dialing 2-1-1, you can speak directly with a trained specialist who can connect you with resources for:

• Rent and utility assistance
• Avoiding eviction
• Free tax prep and financial counseling
• Affordable healthcare support
• Free summer meals for kids
• Job training and digital skills programs
• Protecting your legal rights as a renter
• Parenting support and early childhood programs

You can also apply for free laptops, find low-interest loan options, or get help opening a no-fee bank account through United Way’s financial empowerment services. Even if you don’t qualify for direct rent help right away, using these services can ease other expenses so you can keep up with housing costs.

2. Catholic Charities Dallas

Catholic Charities Dallas is one of the city’s longest-standing support organizations. They offer both rental and utility assistance as part of their broader emergency services program, which is designed to help families make it through unexpected setbacks like job loss, housing instability, or medical bills. 

Their services are open to a wide range of people, including immigrants, refugees, seniors, and low-income families. Support is offered in both English and Spanish, and depending on your situation, you may also be eligible for food assistance, legal aid, job training, or financial coaching. 

Along with short-term rent relief, Catholic Charities Dallas operates St. Jude Centers, which provide permanent housing for formerly homeless individuals. They also offer Rapid Rehousing and Emergency Housing Voucher (EHV) programs through Housing Forward’s Coordinated Access System. These programs require referrals and are not open to walk-ins. 

Even if you don’t qualify for housing programs, other services like SNAP assistance, job placement, or help with groceries and diapers can still lighten your financial load. If you need help paying rent in Dallas, TX, or want to learn more about other available services, you can visit their main office on Harry Hines Boulevard, call 866-223-7500, or contact them online. 

3. The Stewpot

Located in Downtown Dallas near the Farmers Market, The Stewpot has been offering essential support to those experiencing homelessness or extreme financial hardship since 1975. What began as a church lunch program has grown into a full-scale community resource, providing both emergency services and long-term support for those trying to get back on their feet. 

If you’re at risk of losing housing or need help paying rent in Dallas, TX, The Stewpot can connect you with case managers, housing referrals, and other helpful resources. Beyond rental and housing assistance, the organization also offers: 

• Hot meals and groceries
• Mail services
• ID recovery
• Healthcare support and mental health referrals 
• Youth and family services
• Creative and educational programs

All services excluding meals are offered at 1610 S. Malcolm X Blvd, Dallas, TX 75226. To learn more, you can visit them in person Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 4 PM (closed 12-1PM), or contact them online. 

4. Salvation Army of North Texas

With multiple locations across Dallas, the Salvation Army of North Texas offers short-term rent and utility assistance as part of their larger emergency services network. Their year-round support is intended to help families facing sudden disruptions that make it difficult to cover monthly housing costs. 

In addition to rental assistance, they also provide seasonal relief programs, including box fans during the summer, warming shelters in the winter, and holiday meals when funds are tight. Some centers also offer financial counseling, case management, after-school programs, and food pantries depending on staffing levels and funding. Locations span from Irving to Denton and Oak Cliff to Lewisville, making it easier to get help that’s close to home. Whether you need help paying rent in Dallas, TX or are searching for support with something else, the next best step is finding a location near you or contacting the organization online. 

5. Metrocrest Services

Metrocrest Services supports residents in Addison, Carrollton, Farmers Branch, Coppell, and the part of Dallas situated in Denton County (75287). These suburbs are located just north of Dallas, where rising rents and inflation have made it challenging more working families to stay afloat. If you need help paying rent in Dallas, TX and happen to live in one of these select areas, this nonprofit may be your best local resource. 

Alongside emergency rental assistance, they also offer support to promote lasting financial stability. If you qualify, some services available to you may include:

• Emergency rent and utility assistance
• One-on-one financial coaching and budgeting
• Access to an on-site food pantry
• Referrals for health, housing, and mental health needs
• Employment support and job readiness programs
• Seasonal support for children and seniors
• Senior services

Each case is handled differently, depending on the person or family’s individual needs and circumstances. The goal of the program isn't just to provide immediate relief, but to equip families with the financial tools they need for long-term security. To review eligibility guidelines or start an application, call 972-446-2100 or visit the website. 

6. Jewish Family Service of Greater Dallas

Open to all people of faiths and backgrounds, Jewish Family Service (JFS) of Greater Dallas offers rental assistance and a variety of other services to help families find stability. Known for its fast response times, JFS provides the following services in addition to rent and utility support:

• A full-service pantry for qualifying zip codes
• Mental health counseling
• Domestic violence intervention
• Career services
• Senior support programs 
• Financial education (one-on-one and group options)

To see how JFS can provide help paying rent in Dallas, TX, visit their website, call (972) 437-9950, email info@planntx.org, or visit a location in person.

Government-Backed Rental Support Programs

1. Texas Rent Relief Program

The Texas Rent Relief Program was one of the largest housing initiatives during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing over $2.2 billion in assistance across 250 out of 254 counties in the state. The program was led by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs, which permanently closed the initiative in the summer of 2023.

2. Dallas Housing Authority (DHA)

The Dallas Housing Authority (DHA) oversees multiple rental assistance programs for eligible city residents. While the Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8) may be the most well-known, DHA also administers Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHVs), which are reserved for people experiencing homelessness, at risk of homelessness, or fleeing domestic violence.

Key programs include:

• Section 8 Vouchers: Provides monthly rent subsidies paid directly to landlords.

• Project-Based Vouchers: These are tied to specific apartment complexes, allowing tenants to pay a reduced rental rate. 

• Emergency Housing Vouchers: Available only by referral through Housing Forward’s Coordinated Access System.

Visit the DHA’s applicant portal to review services, check your eligibility, or get added to the waitlist. Keep in mind that many programs have long wait times, so it’s worth applying even if your needs aren’t immediate. 

Churches and Faith-Based Initiatives

Many churches throughout Dallas provide one-time rental assistance or emergency relief to their members and/or local residents. While programs vary, they can often provide support more quickly than larger organizations can. A few to consider include: 

• Wilshire Baptist Church: Wilshire Baptist Church offers rent and utility assistance in partnership with local nonprofits to help families experiencing financial hardship. 

• Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church: Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church provides emergency aid through its Crisis Center, including support with rent, food, clothing, and basic medical needs. 

• Highland Park United Methodist: Highland Park United Methodist Connects people to short-term rent or utility assistance through its Resource Center and Belong Ministry. 

• Concord Church: Concord Church assists individuals facing emergencies by offering relief on a case-by-case basis, including housing and utility support when funds are available.

• Oak Cliff Churches for Emergency Aid (OCCEA): OCCEA is a coalition of Oak Cliff churches offering financial assistance for rent, utilities, and prescription costs to residents in select zip codes.

While funds are often limited, churches may also be able to help with groceries, transportation, or referrals to other nonprofits. If you don’t know where to begin, try reaching out to your local place of worship or the Dallas Area Interfaith Council for guidance. 

Other Support Options That Might Help

Even if you don’t qualify for rental assistance, there are other ways to help you make it through a tough time: 

United Way of Metropolitan Dallas: Call 2-1-1 to connect with someone who can match you with local programs based on your ZIP code and needs. 

Community Council of Greater Dallas: This organization helps with job placement, income stability, and housing support, especially for seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities. 

Food banks: Groups like the North Texas Food Bank can help you out with groceries so that you have more money to put toward your rent. 

What to Do If You're Still Struggling

If you’ve already applied for help and still don’t have enough support, don’t give up. You still have a few other options. Start by talking to your landlord and trying to work out a temporary solution, like a payment plan or a short-term reduction in rent. Many are willing to work something out if they see you’re proactive about it. 

You can also reach out to a HUD-approved housing counselor. They can walk you through different options for staying housed and help you avoid scams in the process. Make sure you understand your rights as a tenant. If you’re at risk of eviction, organizations like Legal Aid of Northwest Texas may be able to help you at no cost.

Final Thoughts: Dallas Has Your Back

Finding safe, affordable housing isn’t easy, especially when life throws unexpected costs or setbacks your way. The good news is that Dallas has a strong network of nonprofits, churches, and community programs designed to step in when you need it most. 

No matter where you are in the process, there are people who care and resources that can help. The earlier you reach out, the more options you’re likely to have. Even if you don’t qualify for assistance right away, support may come from more places than you think. 

If you found this guide useful, consider sharing it with a friend, neighbor, or coworker who might need help paying rent in Dallas, TX. If what you really need isn’t rental assistance but a fresh start, the team at Evernest is here to help. Explore available homes here and take the first step toward finding a stable place to call home.