Got Evicted? Here's How to Find Housing Anyway
Evictions can feel like the end of the road—but they’re not. Whether your eviction was recent or years ago, you can find stable housing again. This guide walks you through the real steps to take, the programs that may still help you, and the mindset shift needed to move forward with power.
What an Eviction Really Means
Having an eviction on your record might:
Show up on tenant screening reports
Get your rental application denied
Temporarily block you from some housing programs
But not all landlords are the same, and many people still get housed after eviction—especially with the right strategy and support.
Step 1: Clean Up Your Record (If You Can)
Eviction Expungement
If your eviction was:
Dismissed
Settled and paid
More than 1 year ago
Or the result of hardship (job loss, medical crisis, DV)
...you may be eligible for expungement, which removes it from your public record.
How to start:
Contact Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid or Volunteer Lawyers Network
File a petition to expunge
Ask for a support letter from your case manager, worker, or therapist
Why this matters: It gives you a fresh start and opens more rental doors.
Step 2: Target the Right Kinds of Housing
Instead of applying everywhere and getting discouraged, focus on landlords and programs that accept evictions or are more flexible.
✅ Best Options:
Private landlords or small property owners
Room rentals/shared housing
Housing Support (formerly GRH), this program looks different based on your county.
Community-based nonprofits
Landlords willing to negotiate with case managers
🚫 Harder to Access Right Now:
Large apartment chains with automated screening systems
Public housing authorities (if the eviction was recent)
💡 Use HousingLink.org
Step 3: Create a Strong Housing Narrative
When applying for housing after eviction, telling your story matters. This is your chance to explain:
What led to the eviction
What’s different now
What supports you have in place
Why you’re ready to be a reliable tenant
What to Include:
A 1-paragraph housing narrative
Proof of income (SSI, job, MSA, etc.)
Character references
A support letter from a housing worker or navigator
Example:
“I was evicted in 2023 after losing my job and dealing with health challenges. I now have steady income, I’m working with a housing specialist, and I’ve taken steps to stay stable. I’m ready for a fresh start.”
Step 4: Work With a Housing Program or Navigator
Housing Stabilization Services (HSS)
⚠️ IMPORTANT:
This program is ending soon. Even if you enroll now, be aware that it may be terminated at any time due to changes at the state level. Find a provider and enroll ASAP if you're eligible. The sooner you're in, the better.
If you have a disability, mental illness, brain injury, or similar diagnosis and are on Medical Assistance, you may qualify for HSS. This program offers a worker to help you find housing and maintain stability once housed.
You can access the most current list of Housing Stabilization Services providers through the Minnesota Health Care Programs (MHCP) Provider Directory.
Step-by-Step: How to Use the Provider Directory
Go to the MHCP Provider Directory
(Google "MHCP Provider Directory" if the link changes)Under "Search by Provider Type", choose:
Provider Type:
Home and Community Based Services (general)Provider Subtype:
Housing Stabilization Services
You can narrow your search by entering:
Your county
Your ZIP code (optional)
Select "Housing Consultation" or "Housing Transition and Sustaining" if you want to be specific
Click Search to see a list of approved providers.
Tips:
Call a few providers and ask if they’re currently accepting new clients.
Be prepared to explain your situation and why you qualify (disability, health condition, etc.).
Ask how long their intake process takes and what documentation you’ll need.
Step 5: Get Help Paying Rent, Deposits, or Application Fees
You may still qualify for help — even if you’ve been denied before.
County Emergency Assistance (EA)
Most Minnesota counties offer Emergency Assistance to help cover:
Back rent
First month’s rent
Security deposits
Utility shutoffs
Emergency shelter
You do not need to be receiving full county benefits to apply.
How to Apply:
Go to mnbenefits.gov to submit your application.
**After you apply online, we strongly recommend that you go in person to your county’s Human Services or Economic Assistance office to follow up, check your status, or provide documents. This helps speed up your application and shows urgency.
More Financial Help:
Salvation Army Rent Assistance
Mutual Aid Groups (search local Facebook or Instagram accounts)
Seeds Worth Sowing
Housing Trust Fund (HTF)
Local churches or mosques with rent support funds
Tip: Always ask landlords if they’ll accept:
A double deposit
A shorter lease
A co-signer or case management support
Step 6: Stay Ready and Keep Applying
Apply weekly to multiple places
Keep your documents organized (ID, income, housing narrative)
Follow up on applications
Stay connected to a housing worker if possible
Remember: You only need one “yes.” Stay encouraged and keep moving.
You Are Worthy of Housing. Even After an Eviction
Evictions happen. Life happens. What matters most is that you keep showing up for yourself and accept help where it’s offered.
There are landlords, programs, and people who will give you a second chance—and Housing for the Homies exists to help you navigate the different opportunities available.
