How to apply for Texas Fund for Veterans' Assistance — Emergency Financial Help (Rent, Utilities)

Who it's for

The Texas Veterans Commission's Fund for Veterans' Assistance awards grants to local nonprofits, local governments, and veteran service organizations that provide direct emergency help to Texas veterans and their families — including rent assistance (up to $6,000 per household per grant period, including deposits and arrears) and utility assistance (up to $3,000 per household per grant period, covering electric, water, gas, and more). The help comes from the funded local organization, not TVC directly — find one through the TVC grantee directory or by calling 211.

What you'll need

• DD-214 or other proof of veteran status
• Photo ID (driver's license or state ID)
• The bills or notices needing help (rent notice, utility bill, shutoff notice)
• Proof of household income (the funded organization sets its own screening)

Where to apply

What to say when you call

“Hello, I'm calling to ask about Texas Fund for Veterans' Assistance — Emergency Financial Help (Rent, Utilities). 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 dd-214 or other proof of veteran status, photo id (driver's license or state id), the bills or notices needing help (rent notice, utility bill, shutoff notice) — 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. Call 211 or search the TVC grantee directory at tvc.texas.gov to find a TVC-funded local organization that serves your county.
2. Confirm that the local organization is currently accepting applications, since funding availability varies by county and time of year.
3. Gather your DD-214 or other proof of veteran status and a photo ID such as a driver's license or state ID.
4. Collect the bills or notices you need help with — this may include a rent notice, utility bill, or shutoff notice.
5. Pull together proof of household income, such as recent pay stubs, benefit award letters, or other documents the local organization requests.
6. Apply directly through the local organization — online or by phone — following their specific intake process and screening rules.

What to expect: After you submit your application, the local TVC-funded organization will review your documents and determine whether you qualify under their own screening rules. Processing times vary, so ask the organization for an estimate when you apply. If approved, rent assistance can cover up to $6,000 per household per grant period — including deposits and arrears — and utility assistance can cover up to $3,000 per household per grant period for electric, water, gas, and other utilities. Because each organization manages its own funding cycle, check back with a local grantee if help is not available at the time you apply, as new funding periods may open throughout the year.