Deadline Approaching for ,000 in Rent Assistance for Low-Income Seniors and Disabled Individuals

Rent-burdened seniors and individuals with disabilities across Los Angeles have a limited window of opportunity to secure emergency financial assistance through the L.A. City Emergency Income Support Program, which is funded by Measure ULA. As the application period for this critical support draws to a close on April 30, residents are urged to act quickly to apply for up to ,000 in aid.

This program targets low-income seniors aged 65 and older as well as individuals with disabilities. To qualify, participants must demonstrate that their household income does not exceed 50% of the median income while allocating at least 30% of their earnings to rent expenses. With rising living costs and economic uncertainties, many within these demographics are increasingly challenged to meet basic needs such as food and healthcare.

Measure ULA, often referred to as the “mansion tax,” was enacted in 2022, imposing a graduated tax ranging from 4% to 5.5% on real estate transactions valued over million. The revenue generated from this tax is intended to support affordable housing initiatives and provide tenant assistance, exemplified by the emergency fund now available to those in need.

Opponents of Measure ULA have mobilized to challenge the initiative, gathering sufficient signatures to qualify the “Local Taxpayer Protection Act” for the upcoming November ballot. This action arises from ongoing debates surrounding the effectiveness and impact of the mansion tax on large-scale real estate sales in the region.

Recent statistics highlight the pressing nature of housing instability for vulnerable populations. Data from Los Angeles’ 2025 Point-in-Time Count reveals that approximately 25% of the county’s homeless population consists of seniors, with many experiencing concurrent challenges such as mental health issues and substance use disorders. The Emergency Income Support Program aims to address these vulnerabilities, ensuring that struggling households can remain in their homes.

Eligible households range in size, with those of two receiving up to ,510, families of three qualifying for ,606, and four-person households potentially receiving ,000. Assistance will be distributed in a lump sum via debit cards, giving recipients flexibility in addressing their needs.

The Los Angeles Housing Department has allocated nearly million for this second round of funding, with over .5 million aimed at supporting approximately 1,005 households. As of December 2025, Measure ULA has successfully generated around billion in tax revenue, with a significant portion earmarked for affordable housing development and other supportive services like eviction legal defense.

This initiative is one of eleven programs managed by the United to House L.A. coalition, which plays a critical role in preserving housing stability for at-risk populations. For those interested in applying for the Emergency Income Support Program, further details and applications can be found at the designated online portal.