How to apply for Congregate Housing — Shared Affordable Housing with Services

Who it's for

Congregate Housing is shared affordable housing for older adults and people with disabilities who can live independently. Residents have a private bedroom and share the kitchen, dining and bathroom areas, with services arranged by an on-site coordinator. The state says there are more than 40 sites with room for about 500 residents. To be eligible you must be elderly (60 or older, or 62 or older depending on the housing type) or a non-elderly person with a disability, and able to live independently. Apply directly to the housing agency that runs a site; the site list is on mass.gov. MassOptions can help you find one: 800-243-4636.

What you'll need

• Proof of age (60+ or 62+ depending on the site) or of disability
• Income and asset information for the housing agency's eligibility review
• Application to the specific Congregate Housing site

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Congregate Housing — Shared Affordable Housing with Services. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need proof of age (60+ or 62+ depending on the site) or of disability, income and asset information for the housing agency's eligibility review, application to the specific Congregate Housing site — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Check basic eligibility first. You must be 60 or older (or 62 or older at some sites), or a non-elderly person with a disability, and able to live independently.
2. Find a Congregate Housing site near you. A list of more than 40 sites is published on mass.gov. You can also call MassOptions at 800-243-4636 for help finding a site.
3. Contact the housing agency that runs your chosen site. Each site is managed by its own housing agency with its own income limits and waiting list. Reach out directly to ask about availability, income requirements, and how to get their application.
4. Gather your documents. You will need proof of age (60+ or 62+, depending on the site) or proof of disability, and income and asset information for the housing agency's eligibility review.
5. Complete and submit the application to that specific Congregate Housing site. Follow the site's instructions for submitting your paperwork.

What to expect: After you submit your application, the housing agency at your chosen site will review your eligibility, including your age or disability status and your income and assets. Because each site sets its own income limits and maintains its own waiting list, processing times vary — ask the housing agency for an estimate of how long the process may take. If you are approved and a room becomes available, you will sign a lease and move into a private bedroom while sharing kitchen, dining, and bathroom areas with other residents. An on-site coordinator helps arrange services to support your independence. Your eligibility and lease will be reviewed annually by the housing agency, so be ready to provide updated information each year.

Renewals

annual lease/eligibility review by the housing agency