Project-Based Rental Assistance — PBRA
A HUD program in which rental subsidies are attached to specific housing units rather than to a tenant via a voucher.
Official source: hud.gov
Project-Based Rental Assistance (PBRA) is a government program that helps people afford housing. Instead of giving money directly to a person, this program provides a subsidy for a specific apartment or house. This means the rent for that particular home is lower because the government helps pay a portion of it directly to the landlord.This program helps individuals and families who qualify for rental assistance based on their income and other factors. It’s often found in certain apartment complexes, housing for seniors, and places that offer extra support services. If you live in a PBRA unit, your rent stays affordable as long as you live there.To get into a PBRA property, you apply directly to the management of that building, not through a separate government agency. A key thing to remember is that this help is tied to the home itself. So, if you decide to move, the rental assistance doesn't move with you to your new place. You would have to find a new way to pay rent at your next home. You can search HUD's Multifamily Housing property database to find PBRA properties in your area. See also: <a href="/glossary/public-housing">Public Housing</a>.
In real life
- A family lives in an apartment building where some units get help paying rent through this program.
- Someone pays a lower rent because the apartment building gets money from the government to help its renters.
- A person looking for an affordable place to live finds an apartment where the rent is set based on their income with government help.
Also known as
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Frequently asked questions about Project-Based Rental Assistance
What is Project-Based Rental Assistance?+
A HUD program in which rental subsidies are attached to specific housing units rather than to a tenant via a voucher, allowing very low-income households to pay 30% of income for rent in participating properties. PBRA properties are privately owned with HUD contracts — apply directly to the property.
Who qualifies for Project-Based Rental Assistance?+
Households with income at or below local limits set by HUD; priority often goes to seniors, people with disabilities, and families with children.
How do I apply for Project-Based Rental Assistance?+
Contact your local Public Housing Agency to get on the waiting list. Find yours at hud.gov.
Where can I get help?+
Contact your local Public Housing Agency for Section 8, public housing, and LIHEAP. BenefitKarma's Find Benefits tool lists housing programs for your state.
Source: hud.gov