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, and you apply for vouchers and public housing through your local PHA.
Key takeaways
- Section 811 provides supportive, accessible housing for low-income people with disabilities.
- Section 811 is a separate program from Section 202, which serves seniors.
- Vouchers and public housing are also available to eligible people with disabilities.
- The Fair Housing Act protects your right to reasonable accommodations and modifications.
- Income limits are area-based; FY2026 limits took effect May 1, 2026 — apply for vouchers and public housing through your local PHA.
What Section 811 is
HUD’s Section 811 Supportive Housing for Persons with Disabilities program funds affordable, accessible rental housing for low-income adults with disabilities. It can pair housing with supportive services for independent living, and is designed to meet accessibility needs. Section 811 is delivered through partnerships involving HUD, state housing agencies, and service providers (including project rental assistance via HUD Exchange), and availability and the application process vary by property, with each keeping its own waiting list. Section 811 is distinct from Section 202, HUD’s program for seniors age 62 and older; if that fits your situation, see Senior Housing Assistance Programs.
Vouchers, public housing, and your 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 a rent share that is usually about 30% of your adjusted income — and may be as high as 40% if you choose a unit above the local payment standard. Some PHAs also 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.
Your options and rights at a glance
| Option or right | What it means |
|---|---|
| Section 811 | Accessible housing for low-income adults with disabilities; apply via property/state agency |
| Housing Choice Voucher | Rent privately; usually about 30% of adjusted income (up to 40%); apply via PHA |
| Public housing | PHA-owned units; rent about 30% of adjusted income; apply via PHA |
| Reasonable accommodation | A change in rules or policies (e.g., a service or emotional support animal in a no-pets building) |
| Reasonable modification | A physical change (e.g., grab bars or a ramp) |
Your Fair Housing Act rights
The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination based on disability and gives you important rights. Under the Act, you have a right to request and receive reasonable accommodation and/or modification from your housing provider to allow equal opportunity to use and enjoy your home — for example, permission for a service animal or emotional support animal in a no-pets building (with no pet fees or deposits charged for it), or installation of a ramp or grab bars. Reasonable accommodations are changes to rules, policies, or services; reasonable modifications are physical changes. These protections generally apply across housing types — see HUD’s Fair Housing Act overview for details. Rules about who pays for a modification can vary, so discuss the request with your provider in advance. If you believe you faced discrimination, file a complaint directly with HUD at hud.gov/reporthousingdiscrimination — keep records, including dates.
Who qualifies and how to apply
Eligibility is based on area income limits, disability status where required, citizenship or eligible non-citizen status, and screening. Because HUD 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 took effect May 1, 2026. To apply, contact your local PHA for vouchers and public housing (directory at hud.gov/contactus/public-housing-contacts; HUD does not take applications directly), 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 start with the Housing Assistance 2026 Guide.
Sources
- HUD — Multifamily Housing for Seniors and Persons with Disabilities (Section 811)
- HUD Exchange — Section 811 Project Rental Assistance (811 PRA)
- HUD — Fair Housing Act Overview
- HUD — HCV Information for Tenants
- HUD — File a Housing Discrimination Complaint
- HUD — FY2026 Income Limits
- HUD — PHA Contact Directory
Last fact-check: July 29, 2026
Editorial status: Independent subject-matter review has not been completed.