To qualify for the First Steps Program, you must meet the following criteria:

Basic Requirements:

•  You must be 18 years or older
•  You must live in the Austin Metro Area (includes Travis County and parts of Williamson County)
•  You must be able to show that you have taken steps to try and resolve your situation on your own

Who We Help:
This program is for individuals and families who are at imminent risk of becoming homeless. That means:

•  You will lose your current housing within 14 days of applying
•  You have no other place to go
•  You don’t have the money or support to find another permanent place to live

This can include:

•  Losing a home you own or rent
•  Being asked to leave a place where you’re staying with friends or family
•  Living in a place where you don’t pay rent and are being made to leave

Documentation

Your application is your opportunity to express your circumstances. Most importantly, providing IDs, proof of hardship, and proof of income will help us process your application faster as these documents will be required.

Don’t be discouraged if you don’t have all the documents right now. We understand — and we still encourage you to apply.

You can start the process by submitting an application.

Please know that applying does not guarantee approval, but it is the first step toward getting the help you may need. After you apply, a case manager will reach out within 14 business days to guide you through the next steps. If you’re approved, payments are sent directly to your landlord or service provider within 10 to 14 business days.

Important: Submitting more than one application won’t improve your chances—it may actually delay the process for you and others. One complete application is all you need to be considered.

We’re doing our best to serve everyone with care and respect, and we thank you for your patience as we review each request.