Quick answer: In 2026, people with disabilities can access HUD’s Section 811 Supportive Housing for Persons with Disabilities, plus Housing Choice Vouchers and public housing. You also have accessibility and reasonable-accommodation rights under the Fair Housing Act. Rent in these programs is generally about 30% of adjusted income.
Key takeaways
- Section 811 provides supportive housing for very-low-income people with disabilities.
- Vouchers and public housing are also available to eligible people with disabilities.
- The Fair Housing Act protects your right to reasonable accommodations and modifications.
- Rent is generally about 30% of adjusted monthly income in these programs.
- Income limits are area-based; FY2026 limits take effect May 1, 2026.
What Section 811 is
HUD’s Section 811 Supportive Housing for Persons with Disabilities program funds affordable, accessible rental housing for very-low-income adults with disabilities. It can pair housing with supportive services that help residents live independently in the community. Rent is income-based, generally about 30% of adjusted income, and the housing is designed to meet accessibility needs.
Section 811 is delivered through partnerships involving HUD, state housing agencies, and service providers. Availability and the exact application process vary by location and property, and each typically keeps its own waiting list. Because it targets very-low-income households, income eligibility is central.
Vouchers, public housing, and your other options
Beyond Section 811, people with disabilities can apply for the Housing Choice Voucher program and for public housing. Vouchers let you rent from a private landlord while paying about 30% of your adjusted income, and some PHAs administer special vouchers aimed at helping people with disabilities live independently. Public housing offers government-owned units managed by your PHA.
Compare these paths in our Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Guide and Public Housing Eligibility 2026. Older adults with disabilities may also qualify for senior options described in Senior Housing Assistance Programs.
Your Fair Housing Act rights
The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination based on disability and gives you important rights. You can request a reasonable accommodation — a change in rules, policies, or services — when needed to use and enjoy your home, such as permission for an assistance animal in a no-pets building. You can also request reasonable modifications, which are physical changes to a unit or common area, like installing grab bars or a ramp.
These protections apply broadly to housing, including private rentals and assisted housing. If you believe you have faced housing discrimination, HUD accepts complaints. Knowing your rights helps you advocate for the accessibility you need throughout the application and tenancy process.
Who qualifies and how to apply
For Section 811 and other programs, eligibility is based on area income limits, disability status where the program requires it, citizenship or eligible non-citizen status, and screening. Because HUD income limits are area-specific, there is no single national figure — check your county or metro on HUD’s tool and read our HUD Income Limits 2026 guide. FY2026 limits take effect May 1, 2026. Under HOTMA, a 2026 net family asset limit of $105,574 applies.
To apply, contact your local PHA for vouchers and public housing, and reach out to Section 811 properties or your state housing agency. For step-by-step guidance, see How to Apply for Housing Assistance, and for the full picture start with the Housing Assistance 2026 Guide. You may also qualify for SNAP or LIHEAP to help with other costs.
People Also Ask
What is Section 811 housing?
Section 811 is HUD’s Supportive Housing for Persons with Disabilities program. It provides affordable, accessible rental housing for very-low-income adults with disabilities and can include supportive services for independent living. Rent is income-based, generally about 30% of adjusted income, and applications are handled by participating properties or state agencies.
Can people with disabilities get a Section 8 voucher?
Yes. People with disabilities who meet income and eligibility rules can apply for the Housing Choice Voucher through their local PHA. Some PHAs also administer special vouchers focused on helping people with disabilities live independently. The voucher lets you rent privately while paying about 30% of your adjusted income.
What is a reasonable accommodation?
A reasonable accommodation is a change in rules, policies, or services that a person with a disability needs to fully use and enjoy their home. An example is allowing an assistance animal in a no-pets building. Under the Fair Housing Act, housing providers must consider such requests and grant them when reasonable.
Can I make my unit accessible?
You can request reasonable modifications — physical changes such as grab bars or a ramp — needed because of a disability. The Fair Housing Act protects this right. Rules about who pays and restoring the unit can vary, especially in private housing, so discuss the request with your housing provider in advance.
What if I face housing discrimination?
The Fair Housing Act prohibits disability discrimination in housing. If you believe you were treated unfairly, you can file a complaint with HUD. Keep records of what happened, including dates and communications. Knowing your rights helps you advocate for accessibility throughout the application and tenancy process.
Official sources
Reviewed by the Guru Gazette Editorial Review Team · Last reviewed June 2026. Figures are verified against official government sources; see our Fact-Checking Policy.