What is Housing Stabilization Services?

Housing Stabilization Services (HSS) is a Medical Assistance benefit offered through the Minnesota Department of Human Services. The program helps people with disabilities and seniors find and keep housing. It is designed for individuals who are homeless, at risk of homelessness, transitioning out of institutions or other licensed settings, or at risk of institutional placement.

HSS does not pay for rent, utilities or household expenses. Instead, it provides targeted services that support people throughout the housing journey.

Types of Housing Stabilization Services

Housing Consultation

A housing consultant develops a person‑centered plan with individuals who do not have waiver or targeted case management. The consultant identifies goals and preferences for housing and connects clients with the right transition or sustaining provider.

Housing Transition

Transition services help clients plan for, find and move into housing. Activities include exploring housing options, completing applications, budgeting, understanding leases and covering moving expenses.

Housing Sustaining

After a move, sustaining services assist clients in keeping their homes. Providers offer tenant education, coaching on relationships with landlords and neighbors, problem solving, and help with lease compliance.

Who Qualifies?

To be eligible for Housing Stabilization Services, a person must meet all of the following needs‑based criteria:

Be enrolled in Medical Assistance (MA).
Be 18 years or older.
Have a documented disability, which may include physical or developmental disabilities, mental illness, substance use disorder or conditions expected to cause long‑term incapacity.
Need assistance with at least one of the following due to a disability: communication, mobility, decision‑making or managing behaviors.
Experience housing instability – being homeless, at risk of homelessness, recently moved from an institution or at risk of institutionalization.
Not receiving similar services through other programs, such as Moving Home MN or Assertive Community Treatment.

Applicants will also need to provide documentation of MA coverage, an assessment (e.g., MnCHOICES), proof of disability and a person‑centered plan.

Learn More

If you have more questions about Housing Stabilization Services or want help determining your eligibility, contact us or visit the Housing Benefits 101 resource for additional information.

What is HSS?