Housing Support in Minnesota: who qualifies and how to apply

What Housing Support pays for

DHS describes Housing Support as assistance with room and board. Depending on the setting, that can include housing, food and basic household needs. Some eligible settings also have separately funded support services.

There are three parts to qualifying: an eligible person, an approved provider and an eligible place to live. Ask about all three before agreeing to a move. Having a low income alone does not make any apartment eligible.

Housing Benefits 101 explains the housing settings that can participate, including some independent apartments and group settings. Ask the provider what is included, what you would contribute from your income and what other charges apply.

Who may qualify

Disability Benefits 101 explains the General Assistance and SSI bases of eligibility. Age, a disabling condition, income, assets and the approved setting all matter. Some people can qualify without actually receiving a GA or SSI cash payment.

Do not rule yourself out solely because you do not receive disability benefits. Ask an eligibility worker which rules and documentation apply to you. A website cannot determine your eligibility from a short description.

DB101 lists a $10,000 Housing Support asset limit for its GA and SSI eligibility routes. Other benefits, including SSI itself, have separate rules. Ask the worker which assets count and how your income affects your contribution before making financial decisions.

How to start an application

Use MNbenefits to apply online, or ask your county or Tribal human services office for the Combined Application Form. State that you are asking about Housing Support.

If you know the proposed housing location, include its name, address and phone number. If you do not know where you will live, ask the agency about approved settings and the next step. An application does not reserve a room or apartment.

MNbenefits describes the interview and follow-up process. Keep the confirmation and a copy of what you submit. Use our housing application document checklist to prepare questions about anything you are missing.

• Ask which agency will handle the application and how to contact your worker.
• Confirm the housing provider and setting are approved for this benefit.
• Ask what documents are needed and the deadline for sending them.
• Agree on a safe way to receive calls, letters and requests for more information.

If you need help while you wait

Housing Support is not an immediate shelter booking. If you need a place to stay now, Minnesota 211 can help identify local resources. If you are experiencing homelessness in Hennepin County, read how Coordinated Entry works and use the county's current access route.

If a letter arrives, check whether it asks for more information, schedules an interview or explains a decision. Ask for clarification promptly if you do not understand it. Follow the notice's instructions for review or appeal; deadlines depend on the decision.

If you previously received HSS, our guide to housing services after HSS explains the distinction. Losing that benefit does not by itself decide eligibility for Housing Support.

How ApexRise fits

ApexRise is not an enrolled Housing Support provider and does not approve this benefit, issue payments or reserve housing. This guide helps you reach the responsible agency.

Our housing support service overview describes navigation, tenancy support and the proposed partnership model. Confirm service availability, scope and funding before proceeding.

Questions people ask

Is Housing Support the same as GRH?

Yes. Housing Support is the current name of the program formerly called Group Residential Housing. Older records and conversations may still use GRH.

Do I need to receive SSI to apply?

Not necessarily. Housing Support has GA and SSI bases of eligibility, and some people qualify without receiving those cash benefits. Ask the county or Tribal eligibility worker about your circumstances.

Can I use Housing Support at any apartment?

No. The provider and the housing setting must be approved, as well as the person receiving assistance. Confirm approval before making a housing commitment.

Does the payment come directly to me?

The Housing Support benefit is paid to an approved provider on your behalf. Ask the eligibility worker about your own income contribution and the provider about included costs.

Can ApexRise enroll me in Housing Support?

No. ApexRise is not an enrolled Housing Support provider. Eligibility and approved provider arrangements belong to the responsible public agencies.