Where to Get Help if You Are Behind on Rent in Lexington

August 06, 2026
Where to Get Help if You Are Behind on Rent in Lexington Image

If you're struggling to keep up with rent in Lexington, you're not alone. Job loss, medical bills, unexpected expenses, or other financial hardships can quickly make it difficult to stay current on housing costs.

The good news is that Lexington has several organizations that provide emergency rental assistance, eviction prevention services, legal help, and tenant advocacy. If you're behind on rent or have received an eviction notice, it's important to seek assistance as early as possible, as many programs have limited funding and eligibility requirements.

Rental Assistance Programs in Lexington

Community & Resident Services (Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government)

Community & Resident Services is one of the primary agencies providing emergency financial assistance to Fayette County residents.

Eligible households may receive help with:

  • Past-due rent
  • Eviction prevention
  • Utility assistance
  • Case management
  • Housing stabilization services

Residents generally must have lived in Fayette County for at least one year and meet income and eligibility requirements. Assistance is available while funding lasts.

Community Action Council

Community Action Council serves Lexington and surrounding counties by connecting residents with housing stability resources and emergency assistance.

Depending on funding and eligibility, the organization may help with:

  • Rental assistance
  • Utility assistance (LIHEAP)
  • Housing navigation
  • Homelessness prevention
  • Financial counseling

Community Action Council is often one of the first organizations local residents contact when facing eviction or financial hardship.

Lexington-Fayette Urban County Housing Authority

Lexington-Fayette Urban County Housing Authority administers several affordable housing programs, including:

  • Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8)
  • Public Housing
  • Affordable housing opportunities
  • Housing resource referrals

Although waiting lists may apply, the Housing Authority remains an important resource for individuals seeking long-term affordable housing options.

Housing Advocate Program

The City of Lexington's Housing Advocate helps renters navigate housing issues and connects residents with available programs throughout the city.

They can assist with:

  • Understanding eviction procedures
  • Finding rental assistance resources
  • Locating landlords who accept Housing Choice Vouchers
  • Referrals to housing agencies and nonprofit organizations

Residents experiencing housing instability are encouraged to contact the Housing Advocate before an eviction progresses.

Relocation Assistance Programs

For tenants displaced because of housing code violations or redevelopment, Lexington offers relocation assistance programs that may provide:

  • Security deposits
  • First month's rent
  • Utility deposits
  • Moving expenses
  • Temporary lodging assistance

These programs are available for qualifying households when funding is available.

Legal Help and Tenant Rights

If your landlord has filed for eviction, refuses to make necessary repairs, unlawfully locks you out, or violates your rights as a tenant, free or low-cost legal assistance may be available.

Legal Aid of the Bluegrass

Legal Aid of the Bluegrass provides legal advocacy and education for low-income Kentuckians.

Housing services include:

  • Tenant rights education
  • Eviction assistance
  • Unsafe housing issues
  • Landlord retaliation
  • Housing justice advocacy

They also provide community education so renters better understand their legal rights.

Kentucky Fair Housing Council

Kentucky Fair Housing Council investigates housing discrimination and assists renters who believe they've been treated unfairly because of:

  • Race
  • Disability
  • Family status
  • Religion
  • National origin
  • Sex
  • Other protected characteristics

If you believe you've experienced housing discrimination, this organization can help you understand your options.

Fayette County Bar Association

Fayette County Bar Association operates a lawyer referral service that can connect residents with attorneys experienced in landlord-tenant matters if they do not qualify for free legal aid.

Lexington Human Rights Commission

Lexington Human Rights Commission enforces local fair housing laws and investigates complaints involving housing discrimination within Fayette County.

 

Know Your Rights as a Tenant

Kentucky law provides important protections for renters. Depending on your situation, tenants may have rights involving:

  • Proper eviction procedures
  • Safe and habitable housing
  • Security deposits
  • Required notices before eviction
  • Protection against unlawful discrimination

Lexington's Housing Advocacy and Community Development Department also offers resources to help renters understand available housing programs and where to seek assistance.

Tips if You're Behind on Rent

If you're having trouble paying rent:

  • Contact your landlord before your payment becomes seriously overdue.
  • Apply for rental assistance immediately, as many programs operate on limited funding.
  • Save copies of your lease, notices, payment records, and communication with your landlord.
  • If you've received an eviction notice, contact a legal aid organization as soon as possible.
  • Call Community & Resident Services or Community Action Council early—appointments and funding can fill quickly.

Final Thoughts

Falling behind on rent can feel overwhelming, but help is available. Lexington offers a network of government agencies, nonprofit organizations, housing advocates, and legal service providers that work together to help residents avoid eviction and remain safely housed.

The sooner you reach out, the more options you may have. Whether you need emergency rental assistance, legal advice, or help understanding your rights as a tenant, these organizations can provide guidance and connect you with the resources available in Lexington.