Where to find help paying for a move

Moving information comes from several different sources depending on your situation. Some programs are run by nonprofits, some by government agencies, and some by employers or community organizations. The money is rarely enough to cover a full move, but it can cover part of the cost — usually transportation, deposits, or first month's rent in your new place.

The fastest way to find what's available in your area is to call 211 (a free helpline) and tell them you need moving information. They can tell you which local programs are currently taking requests and what each one requires. You can also search online for "moving information [your city]" or contact your local community action agency, which often runs relocation programs.

The type of help you can get depends on why you're moving. If you're leaving a domestic violence situation, fleeing a natural disaster, or relocating for a job, different programs may be open to you than if you're moving for other reasons. Some programs only help people below a certain income level. Others require you to be a resident of the county or state for a minimum time.

Key Takeaways

  • Call 211 or search online for "moving information [your city]" to find programs that serve your area right now.
  • Most programs cover partial costs like transportation deposits or first month's rent, not the entire move.
  • Your reason for moving (job relocation, domestic violence, disaster) and your income level determine which programs you may be able to use.
  • Nonprofits, local government, and community action agencies run most programs, and many have limited funding that runs out seasonally.
  • You will usually need proof of income, a lease or job offer, and identification to request help.

Nonprofit moving information programs

Nonprofits are often the first place to look because they typically have fewer restrictions than government programs. Catholic Charities, Lutheran Social Services, Jewish Family Services, and the Salvation Army all run moving information in many regions, even if you don't belong to their faith. These organizations often help with transportation costs, truck rental, or deposits on a new apartment.

Each nonprofit sets its own rules about how much they give and who they help. Some cover up to $1,000 toward moving costs; others give $300 or less. Many require you to live in their service area (usually a county or a few counties), and some prioritize people with very low incomes or people in crisis situations like homelessness or domestic violence.

To find nonprofits in your area, search online for the organization name plus your city, or ask 211 which nonprofits they know about. When you contact them, ask directly: Do you have moving information right now? How much do you give? What do you need from me to request it? Some programs have waiting lists or seasonal funding, so knowing whether they're currently open saves you time.

Government and community action programs

Local housing authorities and community action agencies sometimes run moving information as part of their broader housing programs. These are usually funded by HUD (the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development) or by state and local government. They tend to have stricter income limits than nonprofits, but they may cover larger amounts if you meet their requirements.

Community action agencies exist in most counties and focus on helping low-income households. They run programs like weatherization, utility information, and sometimes relocation help. Your local agency can tell you whether they have moving funds available and what the income cutoff is. You can find your agency by searching "community action agency [your county]" or by calling 211.

Government programs often move slowly — approval can take two to four weeks — so contact them early if you have a moving important date. They usually require proof of income (recent pay stubs or tax returns), proof of residency, and documentation of where you're moving to (a lease, a job offer, or a letter from someone offering you housing).

Employer and relocation information

If you're moving for a job, your employer may offer relocation information as part of your hiring package. This is most common with larger companies, government jobs, and positions that require you to move to a specific location. Relocation packages can cover moving truck costs, temporary housing, or a flat amount of money to use however you need.

Ask your new employer's human resources department directly: Do you offer relocation information? If so, what does it cover, and how do I request it? Some employers require you to pay upfront and then reimburse you; others pay the moving company directly. Get the details in writing so you know what to expect.

If your employer doesn't offer relocation help, ask whether they have an employee information program (EAP). Some EAPs include small emergency loans or grants for major life changes, including moving. This is worth asking about even if relocation information isn't advertised.

Disaster and emergency relocation programs

If you're moving because of a natural disaster, fire, or other emergency, FEMA and state emergency management agencies may have temporary housing or relocation information. After a declared disaster, FEMA can provide funds for temporary housing, moving costs, and storage of belongings. You have to register with FEMA first, usually through their website or by calling their disaster hotline.

State and local emergency management agencies also run programs after disasters. Contact your state's emergency management office or your county emergency services to ask what's available in your area. These programs move faster than regular housing information because they're designed for crisis situations, but funding is limited and runs out quickly.

If you're leaving a domestic violence situation, the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) can connect you with local shelters and organizations that sometimes have emergency moving funds. These programs understand that you may need to move quickly and may have fewer documentation requirements than other programs.

What documents and information you'll need

Most programs ask for the same basic information when you request help. Have these ready before you call or visit: a photo ID, proof of income (recent pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter from your employer), and proof of where you're moving to (a signed lease, a job offer letter, or a written statement from someone offering you housing). Some programs also ask for proof that you live in their service area, like a utility bill or driver's license.

If you're moving because of a job, bring the job offer or a letter from your new employer. If you're moving because of domestic violence or a disaster, bring documentation of that situation — a police report, a restraining order, or FEMA registration confirmation. Programs that help people in crisis often have fewer documentation requirements, so ask what they actually need before you spend time gathering papers.

Write down the name and phone number of the program you're contacting, the date you called, and the name of the person you spoke with. If you're told to submit documents by mail or email, send them and ask for confirmation that they arrived. Keeping a record helps if there's confusion later about whether your request was received.

What to do if no programs are available or funding is closed

Many moving information programs have limited funding and close when the money runs out. If you call 211 or a nonprofit and hear that programs are closed, ask when they expect to reopen. Some programs reopen on a specific date each year; others depend on new funding becoming available. Write down the date and call back then.

If programs are closed, look for alternatives. Some employers offer advance paychecks or loans to new hires who are relocating. Credit unions sometimes offer small personal loans with lower interest rates than banks. Some moving companies offer payment plans or discounts for off-season moves. These aren't free, but they can make the cost more manageable.

You can also ask your current landlord whether they'll let you break your lease early without a penalty, or negotiate a later move-out date so you have more time to save. Some landlords will work with you if you're moving for a job or a legitimate reason. It's worth asking, especially if you've been a good tenant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay back moving information?

No. Most moving information from nonprofits and government programs is a grant, not a loan, so you don't repay it. Employer relocation information is also usually a grant. Always ask the program directly whether the money is a grant or a loan before you accept it, so you know what you're agreeing to.

Can I get help if I'm moving to a different state?

It depends on the program. Some nonprofits and government programs only help people moving within their county or state. Others help with interstate moves. When you call 211 or contact a program, tell them your destination state and ask whether they can help. If local programs can't, they may be able to refer you to programs in your new state.

What if I'm moving but I don't have a job or housing lined up yet?

Most programs require proof of where you're moving to — a job offer, a signed lease, or a letter from someone offering you housing. If you don't have any of these, ask whether the program will accept a letter stating your plan or your reason for moving. Some programs, especially those helping people in crisis, are more flexible about documentation. Be honest about your situation when you call.

How long does it take to get moving information?

Nonprofit programs often decide within a few days to a week. Government programs typically take two to four weeks because they have more paperwork and verification steps. If you have a moving important date, tell the program when you need the money and ask whether they can meet that timeline. Some programs prioritize urgent requests, but others cannot.

Can I get help if I've already moved?

Most programs only help with costs before or during the move, not after. If you've already moved and paid for it yourself, you generally cannot get reimbursed. The exception is some disaster information programs, which may reimburse moving costs after the fact. Ask the program directly, but plan to request help before you move if possible.