Rental Assistance
Over the past 20 years, Ramsey County has provided nearly $75 million in funding for the construction of 2,000 affordable housing rental units. All of the 992 units directly assisted with Ramsey County resources are affordable for tenants whose incomes are less than 80 percent of the area median income.
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Rental assistance
In the suburbs
Renters interested in suburban rental housing assistance are encouraged to contact the Metro Housing and Redevelopment Authority, the agency administering the Section 8/Housing Voucher Program in suburban Ramsey County.
In the Saint Paul metro area
In Saint Paul, the Public Housing Agency handles assisted properties. Public housing may be available for low-income families and seniors. Section 8 Applications in the city are closed due to the extensive waiting list and low turnover of available vouchers.
Security deposit assistance
Tenants who need help with security deposits and the first month’s rent may apply with the Ramsey County Community Human Services department. Assistance is available only once during a 12-month period and funding for eligible applicants is available on a first-come,first-served basis. Neighborhood social service centers may have additional resources.
Seniors
Eligible seniors may have a choice of 16 high-rise buildings in Saint Paul. A listing of these buildings for the elderly and disabled is available by calling 651-298-5158 or online at the Public Housing Agency website.
To find services and or housing in your community, contact the Senior LinkAge Line® online or by calling 800-333-2433.
Tenant/landlord disputes
Renters who have tenant/landlord issues can contact the following resources for assistance:
- Dispute Resolution Center (DRC): 651-292-7791
- Home Line: 612-728-5767
- Minnesota Attorney General’s consumer complaint line: 651-296-3353
Receive a free booklet which explains the law in simple terms. Landlords and tenants are encouraged to read and study this booklet to potentially save both parties hundreds of dollars in court costs. - Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Assistance: 651-222-4731
300 Minnesota Building, Saint Paul - Questions from landlords may be directed to the Saint Paul Association of Responsible Landlords (SPARL): 651-647-6810
1595 Selby Avenue, Saint Paul, Suite 104
Landlord 101 class attendence is encouraged. Engaging the services of a private attorney can also be helpful.
Utility payment issues
For utility payment issues, tenants may want to contact:
Resources
- Affordable and/or accessible rental housing in the metro area
- Student housing resources
- Student renters guide
- To obtain a list of privately owned, government-assisted rental buildings in Saint Paul and suburban Ramsey County, contact the area office of the Department of Housing and Urban Development at 612-370-3000, ext. 3500.