Selling Your Home? Explore Moving Cost Assistance Options
If you're facing financial hardship and need to sell your home, you may be eligible for moving cost assistance programs. These programs can help with expenses like relocation costs, temporary housing, and more. Homeowners who qualify can receive thousands of dollars in assistance, making the transition to a new home more manageable.
Based on federal consumer protection law and HUD/CFPB public guidance · Last reviewed July 2026
The Direct Answer
Moving cost assistance programs for homeowners who have to sell can provide significant financial relief. For example, the Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) Good Neighbor Next Door program offers a $7,500 discount on the purchase of a HUD-owned home, which can be used to offset moving costs.
In addition to HUD programs, some states and local governments offer their own moving cost assistance programs, such as the California Relocation Assistance Program, which provides up to $22,000 in relocation benefits to eligible homeowners.
Do not assume you are eligible for moving cost assistance without checking the specific requirements for each program, as they can vary significantly.
HUD Moving Cost Assistance Programs
Good Neighbor Next Door Program
The Good Neighbor Next Door program offers a $7,500 discount on the purchase of a HUD-owned home, which can be used to offset moving costs. To be eligible, you must be a law enforcement officer, teacher, firefighter, or emergency medical technician and agree to live in the home for at least 36 months.
Other HUD programs, such as the HUD Relocation Assistance Program, provide financial assistance to homeowners who are displaced due to federal or federally-assisted projects.
State and Local Moving Cost Assistance Programs
California Relocation Assistance Program
The California Relocation Assistance Program provides up to $22,000 in relocation benefits to eligible homeowners who are displaced due to state or locally-assisted projects. To be eligible, you must meet certain income and eligibility requirements.
Other states and local governments may offer similar programs, so it's essential to check with your state's housing finance agency or local government to see what options are available.
Non-Government Moving Cost Assistance Programs
Non-Profit Organizations
Some non-profit organizations, such as the National Foundation for Credit Counseling, offer moving cost assistance programs for homeowners who are facing financial hardship. These programs may provide financial assistance, counseling, and other resources to help homeowners navigate the moving process.
How to Apply for Moving Cost Assistance
Gathering Required Documents
To apply for moving cost assistance programs, you'll need to gather required documents, such as proof of income, proof of eligibility, and a copy of your sales contract. You may also need to provide additional documentation, such as a moving estimate or a letter from your lender.
Once you have all the required documents, you can submit your application to the relevant program administrator, who will review your eligibility and determine the amount of assistance you're eligible for.
Additional Resources
For more information on moving cost assistance programs, you can contact your state's housing finance agency or local government. You can also visit the HUD website or the National Foundation for Credit Counseling website to learn more about available programs and resources.
Get Moving Cost Assistance
If you're facing financial hardship and need to sell your home, don't navigate the moving process alone. Explore moving cost assistance programs and get the help you need to make your transition smoother.
The Good Neighbor Next Door program is a HUD program that offers a $7,500 discount on the purchase of a HUD-owned home to eligible law enforcement officers, teachers, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians. The program aims to revitalize neighborhoods and provide affordable housing options to public servants.
How do I apply for moving cost assistance programs?
To apply for moving cost assistance programs, you'll need to gather required documents, such as proof of income and proof of eligibility, and submit your application to the relevant program administrator. You can find more information on the application process on the HUD website or by contacting your state's housing finance agency.
What are the eligibility requirements for moving cost assistance programs?
Eligibility requirements for moving cost assistance programs vary depending on the program. Generally, you'll need to meet certain income and eligibility requirements, such as being a homeowner who is facing financial hardship or being displaced due to a federal or federally-assisted project. You can check the specific requirements for each program on the HUD website or by contacting your state's housing finance agency.
Can I use moving cost assistance programs to pay for temporary housing?
Yes, some moving cost assistance programs can be used to pay for temporary housing. For example, the HUD Relocation Assistance Program provides financial assistance to homeowners who are displaced due to federal or federally-assisted projects, which can be used to cover temporary housing costs.