The Rental Assistance Program (RAP) is funded by the State of Connecticut. This program helps low‑income families find safe and clean homes in the private market.
Unlike public housing developments, RAP gives you a certificate that lets you find and choose your own home. You can use this certificate to rent private apartments, townhouses, or single‑family homes anywhere in the state.
How RAP is run
RAP certificates are funded by the Connecticut Department of Housing (DOH). The State contracts with J. D’Amelia & Associates (JDA) to manage the program Statewide.
To handle daily local operations, JDA partners with five regional Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) and one Community Action Agency. You can look up the exact office in charge of your community by using the local housing office directory (PDF).
Finding a home and how rent is paid
When you get a RAP certificate, you must find a rental home where the landlord agrees to be part of the program. You can also use your certificate to stay in your current apartment or house if your landlord agrees to follow the program rules.
Every rental property must pass an inspection to ensure it meets minimum state quality and safety rules. Connecticut uses the official Housing Quality Standards (HQS) set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
After your unit passes inspection and all paperwork is finished, the program sends your monthly rental subsidy directly to your landlord. You must pay the rest of the rent, which is the difference between the total rent and the subsidy amount the State provides.
More resources
- Return to the main Rental Assistance Program hub.
- Check your program eligibility limits.
- View local Maximum Allowable Rent (MAR) guidelines.
- Read the full list of partner responsibilities.