How Do I Get Veteran Housing Assistance in Billings, MT?
Veterans in Billings can get housing assistance by calling the VA Homeless Veterans Office at (406) 373-3927 for HUD-VASH rental vouchers, contacting Volunteers of America at (406) 259-5368 for transitional housing at Independence Hall, or calling HomeFront at (406) 245-6391 for Section 8 vouchers. The national homeless veteran hotline is 877-4AID-VET (877-424-3838).
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit | Housing assistance including rental vouchers, transitional housing, and permanent supportive housing |
| Eligibility | Veterans experiencing or at risk of homelessness; VA health care eligible (for HUD-VASH); honorable discharge (for some programs) |
| Application | Contact program directly by phone; referral through VA case manager required for HUD-VASH |
| Processing Time | Varies by program; HUD-VASH depends on voucher availability; transitional housing may have immediate openings |
| Official Agency | U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), HUD, Volunteers of America, HomeFront |
| Required Forms | DD-214 or military verification; VA Form 10-10EZ (for VA health care enrollment) |
| Updated For | 2026 |
HUD-VASH: Rental Assistance for Homeless Veterans in Billings
HUD-VASH (Housing and Urban Development – VA Supportive Housing) is a federal program that combines Section 8 rental assistance vouchers with VA case management and clinical services for homeless veterans. In Billings, the Housing Authority of Billings administers the vouchers.
What it is: HUD-VASH pairs a Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) with ongoing case management from the VA. The voucher pays a portion of rent directly to the landlord, while the veteran pays approximately 30% of their adjusted income toward rent.
Who qualifies: Veterans must meet three requirements:
Be VA health care eligible (the VA determines this)
Meet the McKinney Act definition of homelessness
Need case management services to obtain and sustain independent housing
Why it matters: HUD-VASH is the primary permanent housing solution for chronically homeless veterans. It provides long-term rental subsidy rather than temporary shelter, giving veterans stability while they address health and employment barriers.
What veterans should do next: Contact the Billings VA Homeless Veterans Office at (406) 373-3927 to request a HUD-VASH referral. A VA case manager will assess eligibility and coordinate with the Housing Authority of Billings.
HUD-VASH Contact in Billings
| Contact | Details |
|---|---|
| Billings Homeless Veterans Office | 1766 Majestic Lane, Billings, MT |
| Phone | (406) 373-3927 |
| Hours | Monday–Friday, 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM |
| Housing Authority of Billings | (406) 245-6391 |
| National Call Center | 877-4AID-VET (877-424-3838) |
Source: VA Homeless Veterans Program, Billings VA Clinic.
Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) in Billings
Veterans May Qualify for Extra Benefits
Check available financial assistance, healthcare programs and other opportunities that may apply to you.
Check EligibilitySSVF is a VA-funded program that provides housing stability assistance to very low-income veterans and their families who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness. In Montana, SSVF operates statewide through nonprofit partners.
What it is: SSVF provides short-term financial assistance for rent, utility deposits, moving costs, and other housing-related expenses. It also connects veterans to case management, VA benefits, and community resources.
Who qualifies: Veterans and their families who are:
Very low-income (below 50% of area median income)
Experiencing homelessness or at imminent risk of losing housing
Residing in or transitioning to permanent housing
Why it matters: SSVF is designed to prevent homelessness before it happens. Veterans who are behind on rent or facing eviction can get rapid financial assistance to stay housed—avoiding the trauma of shelter entry.
What veterans should do next: Contact the SSVF provider serving Billings. Volunteers of America Northern Rockies operates SSVF in the region. Call (406) 259-5368 or the statewide SSVF line.
SSVF Services
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Rapid Rehousing | Short-term rental assistance and case management to exit homelessness quickly |
| Homeless Prevention | Financial assistance to prevent eviction or utility shut-off |
| Case Management | Personalized housing stability plan and resource navigation |
| VA Benefits Connection | Help accessing VA health care, disability compensation, and other benefits |
Source: VA SSVF program guidelines.
Independence Hall: Transitional Housing for Veterans in Billings
Independence Hall is a 20-bed men’s transitional housing facility in Billings operated by Volunteers of America Northern Rockies. It provides a safe, structured environment for honorably discharged male veterans who are experiencing homelessness.
What it is: Independence Hall offers transitional housing with weekly case management, employment services, and life skills development. The facility operates 24/7 and provides a full kitchen, common areas, and a supportive community of fellow veterans.
Who qualifies: Honorably discharged male veterans who are experiencing homelessness. While residing at Independence Hall, veterans can continue receiving treatment through the VA and participate in activities designed to help them reconnect with the community.
Why it matters: Transitional housing bridges the gap between emergency shelter and permanent housing. Veterans stay an average of 4–6 months while working with case managers to secure employment, stabilize health, and secure permanent housing.
What veterans should do next: Contact Independence Hall directly for availability and intake.
Independence Hall Contact Information
| Contact | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 710 Lake Elmo Drive, Billings, MT 59105 |
| Phone | (406) 259-5368 |
| Website | voanr.org/locations/independence-hall |
| Hours | Open 24/7 |
| Capacity | 20 beds for male veterans |
| Average Stay | 4–6 months |
Source: Volunteers of America Northern Rockies, Independence Hall.
HomeFront: Section 8 Vouchers and Affordable Housing in Billings
HomeFront is a Billings-based housing agency that administers Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers and low-rent public housing programs. It serves veterans and other community members in need of affordable housing.
What it is: HomeFront manages rental assistance programs that help low-income individuals and families—including veterans—afford decent, safe housing in the private market. The organization also coordinates with the City of Billings on housing needs assessments and new development projects.
Who qualifies: Eligibility for Section 8 vouchers is based on income (generally below 50% of area median income) and other factors. Veterans may receive priority for certain vouchers. Homeless veterans should contact the VA first to explore HUD-VASH eligibility.
Why it matters: HomeFront is the primary public housing authority for Billings. It connects veterans to rental assistance that can be combined with VA case management for comprehensive support.
What veterans should do next: Contact HomeFront to inquire about Section 8 voucher availability and waitlist status.
HomeFront Contact Information
| Contact | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 2415 1st Avenue N, Billings, MT 59101 |
| Phone | (406) 245-6391 |
| Website | homefrontmt.org |
| Services | Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers, Low-Rent Public Housing |
Source: HomeFront, Billings MT.
Benjamin Charles Steele VA Clinic: Housing Support Services
The Benjamin Charles Steele VA Clinic in Billings is the primary VA health care facility serving Yellowstone County veterans. It provides the clinical and case management foundation for housing assistance programs.
What it is: The clinic offers primary care, mental health services, dental care, and social work services—including housing support. VA social workers at the clinic coordinate HUD-VASH referrals, assess housing needs, and connect veterans to community resources.
Who qualifies: Veterans enrolled in VA health care. To enroll, veterans must have served on active duty and been discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.
Why it matters: VA health care enrollment is required for HUD-VASH participation. The clinic is the entry point for veterans seeking VA-connected housing assistance in Billings.
What veterans should do next: If not already enrolled in VA health care, apply using VA Form 10-10EZ. Contact the clinic’s social work department to request a housing needs assessment.
Benjamin Charles Steele VA Clinic Contact
| Contact | Details |
|---|---|
| Address | 1766 Majestic Lane, Billings, MT 59102 |
| Phone | (406) 373-3500 |
| Housing Contact | (406) 373-3927 (Homeless Veterans Office) |
| Services | Primary care, mental health, dental, social work, housing support |
Source: VA Montana Health Care, Benjamin Charles Steele VA Clinic.
Montana Veterans’ Home Loan Program
The Montana Veterans’ Home Loan Program (VHLP) provides below-market, 30-year fixed-rate mortgages to Montana veterans, active service members, and Montana National Guard members who are first-time homebuyers.
What it is: Administered by the Montana Board of Housing, the VHLP uses Coal Tax Trust Fund dollars to offer mortgages at interest rates below conventional market rates. The program has no income limits for qualified veteran borrowers.
Who qualifies: Applicants must:
Be a Montana resident
Be an eligible veteran (served in the armed services or Montana National Guard; honorable discharge)
Be a first-time homebuyer
Contribute at least $2,500 toward the home purchase
Complete a homebuyer education class
Un-remarried surviving spouses of veterans killed in the line of duty are also eligible
Why it matters: Homeownership is a permanent housing solution. The VHLP reduces the cost of buying a home, helping veterans build long-term stability and wealth in Montana.
What veterans should do next: Contact the Montana Board of Housing for current rates, loan limits, and participating lenders.
Montana Veterans’ Home Loan Program Details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Loan Type | 30-year fixed-rate first mortgage |
| Interest Rate | Below market (approximately 1%–3% historically) |
| Spending Limit | Approximately $242,795 (subject to change) |
| Income Limits | None for qualified veteran borrowers |
| Administrator | Montana Board of Housing |
| Website | housing.mt.gov |
Source: Montana Board of Housing, Veterans’ Home Loan Program.
VA Housing Grants for Disabled Veterans
Veterans with certain service-connected disabilities may qualify for VA housing grants to adapt or acquire homes suited to their needs. These grants are separate from rental assistance programs.
Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) Grant
2026 maximum: $126,526
The SAH grant helps veterans with qualifying severe disabilities—such as loss of use of both legs, blindness in both eyes, or certain severe burns—build, buy, or modify a home.
Special Housing Adaptation (SHA) Grant
2026 maximum: $25,350
The SHA grant helps veterans with specific disabilities—including loss of use of both hands, certain burn injuries, or blindness in both eyes with 20/200 visual acuity or less—adapt an existing home.
How to apply: Complete VA Form 26-4555 (Application in Acquiring Specially Adapted Housing or Special Home Adaptation Grant). Submit through the VA regional office or online at VA.gov.
How to Apply for Veteran Housing Assistance in Billings
Applying for housing assistance involves contacting the right program, gathering documents, and working with a case manager. The process differs by program.
Step 1: Determine Your Housing Situation
| Situation | Best Program to Contact |
|---|---|
| Literally homeless (on street, in shelter) | HUD-VASH: (406) 373-3927 |
| At risk of losing housing (eviction notice, behind on rent) | SSVF: (406) 259-5368 |
| Need transitional housing for men | Independence Hall: (406) 259-5368 |
| Need Section 8 voucher | HomeFront: (406) 245-6391 |
| Want to buy a home | Montana VHLP: housing.mt.gov |
| Disabled veteran needing home modifications | VA SAH/SHA Grant: VA.gov |
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
DD-214 or military discharge papers
Government-issued photo ID
Social Security card
Proof of income (if applicable)
VA health care enrollment confirmation (for HUD-VASH)
Eviction notice or lease documentation (for prevention programs)
Step 3: Complete Intake with a Case Manager
For HUD-VASH and SSVF, you will work with a VA or nonprofit case manager who:
Assesses your housing needs
Verifies program eligibility
Creates a housing stability plan
Connects you to available resources
Step 4: Receive Housing Assistance
Depending on the program:
HUD-VASH: Receive a Section 8 voucher; find a rental unit; VA case manager provides ongoing support
SSVF: Receive short-term rental or utility assistance; work with case manager toward stability
Independence Hall: Move into transitional housing; participate in weekly case management
HomeFront: Receive Section 8 voucher when available; find rental unit
Common Mistakes When Seeking Veteran Housing Assistance in Billings
Mistake 1: Not Contacting the VA First
HUD-VASH vouchers are referred through the VA, not directly through the Housing Authority. Veterans must contact the Billings VA Homeless Veterans Office at (406) 373-3927 to request a referral. Calling HomeFront directly will not result in a HUD-VASH voucher.
Mistake 2: Giving Up Because You Don’t Have a DD-214
Many programs require a DD-214 for eligibility verification. If you don’t have yours, request a copy from the National Archives at archives.gov. Some programs can assist with this process.
Mistake 3: Assuming You Don’t Qualify Due to Discharge Status
Independence Hall serves “honorably discharged” veterans. HUD-VASH requires VA health care eligibility. However, some programs have broader criteria. Always call and ask—do not self-disqualify based on assumptions.
Mistake 4: Waiting Until You’re on the Street
SSVF is designed to prevent homelessness. If you have an eviction notice or are behind on rent, call SSVF immediately. Waiting until you’ve lost housing makes the process more difficult and traumatic.
Mistake 5: Not Following Up
Waitlists and voucher availability change. Call back periodically to check your status. Build relationships with case managers. Persistence pays off.
Mistake 6: Overlooking State and Federal Home Loan Programs
Veterans who are ready to buy a home should explore the Montana VHLP and VA home loan funding fee exemption. These programs can save thousands of dollars and create permanent housing stability.
Common Questions
How do I get emergency housing assistance as a veteran in Billings?
Call the Billings VA Homeless Veterans Office at (406) 373-3927 for HUD-VASH referral, or the national homeless veteran hotline at 877-4AID-VET (877-424-3838). For transitional housing, call Volunteers of America at (406) 259-5368. These lines connect you to same-day or next-day intake.
What is the HUD-VASH program in Billings?
HUD-VASH combines a Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher with VA case management and clinical services for homeless veterans. The Housing Authority of Billings administers the vouchers, and the VA provides ongoing support. Veterans pay approximately 30% of adjusted income toward rent.
Who qualifies for HUD-VASH in Billings?
Veterans must be VA health care eligible, meet the McKinney Act definition of homelessness, and need case management to obtain and sustain housing. Contact the Billings VA Homeless Veterans Office at (406) 373-3927 to determine eligibility.
What is Independence Hall in Billings?
Independence Hall is a 20-bed men’s transitional housing facility at 710 Lake Elmo Drive, operated by Volunteers of America Northern Rockies. It provides housing, weekly case management, and employment services for honorably discharged male veterans. Call (406) 259-5368.
Does HomeFront provide veteran-specific housing?
HomeFront administers Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers and public housing for low-income households in Billings, including veterans. While not veteran-specific, veterans may qualify. Homeless veterans should contact the VA first for HUD-VASH referral.
What is SSVF and how do I apply in Billings?
SSVF (Supportive Services for Veteran Families) provides short-term rental and utility assistance for veterans at risk of homelessness. Volunteers of America Northern Rockies operates SSVF in the region. Call (406) 259-5368 or the statewide SSVF line.
What documents do I need for veteran housing assistance?
You typically need a DD-214 or military discharge papers, government-issued photo ID, Social Security card, and proof of income. For HUD-VASH, VA health care enrollment is required. For SSVF, eviction notice or lease documentation may be needed.
How long is the wait for HUD-VASH in Billings?
Wait times depend on voucher availability and the Housing Authority of Billings’ waitlist. Homeless veterans may receive priority. Contact the VA Homeless Veterans Office at (406) 373-3927 for current waitlist status.
What is the Montana Veterans’ Home Loan Program?
The Montana Veterans’ Home Loan Program offers 30-year fixed-rate mortgages at below-market rates to Montana veterans who are first-time homebuyers. There are no income limits. Contact the Montana Board of Housing at housing.mt.gov for current rates and eligibility.
Are there housing grants for disabled veterans in Montana?
Yes. The VA offers Specially Adapted Housing (SAH) grants up to $126,526 and Special Housing Adaptation (SHA) grants up to $25,350 for veterans with certain service-connected disabilities. Apply using VA Form 26-4555.
What if I’m at risk of homelessness but not yet on the street?
SSVF is designed for you. If you have an eviction notice, are behind on rent, or are couch surfing, call Volunteers of America at (406) 259-5368. SSVF provides short-term financial assistance to prevent homelessness before it happens.
Is there housing assistance for female veterans in Billings?
Independence Hall serves male veterans. Female veterans should contact the VA Homeless Veterans Office at (406) 373-3927 for HUD-VASH referral and SSVF for rapid rehousing assistance. The VA is required to provide housing assistance regardless of gender.
Key Takeaways
HUD-VASH is the primary permanent housing program for homeless veterans in Billings. Contact the VA Homeless Veterans Office at (406) 373-3927 for referral.
Independence Hall provides 20 beds of transitional housing for male veterans in Billings. Call Volunteers of America at (406) 259-5368.
SSVF prevents homelessness by providing short-term rental and utility assistance. Call (406) 259-5368 for help if you’re at risk of losing housing.
HomeFront administers Section 8 vouchers in Billings at (406) 245-6391.
The national homeless veteran hotline is 877-4AID-VET (877-424-3838).
The Montana Veterans’ Home Loan Program offers below-market mortgages to first-time homebuyer veterans with no income limits.
VA housing grants of up to $126,526 (SAH) and $25,350 (SHA) help disabled veterans adapt or acquire homes.
VA health care enrollment is required for HUD-VASH. Apply using VA Form 10-10EZ.
Do not self-disqualify. Call the programs—eligibility rules vary and some serve veterans regardless of discharge status.
Apply before you’re on the street. SSVF and prevention programs work best when contacted early.
Official Resources
VA Homeless Veterans Program: https://www.va.gov/homeless/
National Call Center for Homeless Veterans: 877-4AID-VET (877-424-3838)
Billings VA Homeless Veterans Office: (406) 373-3927
Benjamin Charles Steele VA Clinic: 1766 Majestic Lane, Billings, MT 59102 | (406) 373-3500
Volunteers of America Northern Rockies (Independence Hall): 710 Lake Elmo Drive, Billings, MT 59105 | (406) 259-5368
HomeFront: 2415 1st Avenue N, Billings, MT 59101 | (406) 245-6391 | homefrontmt.org
Housing Authority of Billings: (406) 245-6391
Montana Board of Housing – Veterans’ Home Loan Program: https://housing.mt.gov
VA Specially Adapted Housing Grants: https://www.va.gov/housing-assistance/disability-housing-grants/
VA Form 10-10EZ (Health Care Enrollment): https://www.va.gov/health-care/apply/
VA Form 26-4555 (SAH/SHA Grant Application): https://www.va.gov/vaforms/va/pdf/VA26-4555.pdf
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