Behind on rent or worried about an eviction notice? This guide lists rent assistance in Lake County, Indiana that is actually available in 2026 — township trustees, utility help, legal aid and hotlines — with phone numbers and addresses. If you are in danger or have nowhere to sleep tonight, call 911 or dial 2-1-1.
*Details were checked in September 2026. Programs and funding change often, so call before you go.*
Start With Indiana 211
Indiana 211 is free, confidential and available 24/7. It knows which programs still have funding this week.
- Dial 2-1-1 or call 866-211-9966
- Text your ZIP code to 898-211
- Search at in211.org
Township Trustee Assistance (Rent and Utilities)
In Indiana, township trustees are required by law to help eligible residents with basic needs, including keeping their housing and essential utilities (Indiana Code). This is often the fastest local source of rent assistance in Lake County, Indiana. Apply to the trustee for the township where you live.
| Township (cities) | Office | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| North Township (Hammond, East Chicago, Whiting, Munster, Highland) | 5947 Hohman Ave, Hammond — or 2100 Broadway, East Chicago | (219) 932-2530 • (219) 398-2435 |
| Calumet Township (Gary) | 610 Connecticut St, Gary | (219) 880-4000 |
| St. John Township (Schererville, Dyer, St. John) | 1515 W US Highway 30, Schererville | (219) 865-2705 |
- North Township: Monday–Friday, 8am–5pm; services include rent/mortgage and utility help (North Township Trustee).
- Calumet Township: applications Monday–Thursday, 8am–2pm at the main office; its posted 2026 limit for a one-person household is under $1,565 a month in gross income.
- St. John Township: call for an appointment.
Is State Emergency Rental Assistance Still Available?
No. Indiana’s Emergency Rental Assistance (IERA2) program stopped accepting applications on April 15, 2025, according to the state’s Housing4Hoosiers site. Be cautious of anyone claiming to take applications for it.
Help With Utility Bills
Keeping the lights and heat on frees up money for rent.
- Energy Assistance Program (EAP): in Lake County, apply through CoAction (formerly Northwest Indiana Community Action), 5240 Fountain Dr, Crown Point — 219-794-1829 or 800-826-7871. CoAction reported that new applications closed April 20, 2026 and are expected to reopen in October 2026 (CoAction). Lake County Community Services also takes EAP applications virtually or by mail at (219) 663-0627.
- NIPSCO assistance: NIPSCO offers income-based programs (NIPSCO Hardship, SERV for veterans and SILVER for ages 60+) that can help with gas bills. Apply at NIPSCO.com/IncomeEligible or call 1-800-464-7726.
- Township trustees can also help with utility shutoffs — see the table above.
Charities That May Help
- Salvation Army Hammond–Munster: 8225 Columbia Ave, Munster — (219) 838-0380. Call to ask what help is available and whether funds remain this month.
- Catholic Charities, Diocese of Gary: main office 940 Broadway, Gary — 219-886-3549. Call to confirm current rent and utility help.
Facing Eviction? Get Free Legal Help
- Indiana Legal Services (Merrillville office): 7863 Broadway, Suite 205 — (219) 738-6040
- Statewide intake: 1-844-243-8570 (Monday–Thursday, 10am–2pm Eastern) or apply online
Do not ignore court papers. Going to your hearing and asking for help early gives you the most options.
Veterans
The VA National Call Center for Homeless Veterans (877-424-3838, 24/7) can connect you with rent and housing help, including programs for veterans at risk of losing their home.
Tips for Getting Rent Assistance in Lake County, Indiana
- Apply early — before an eviction is filed if you can.
- Bring documents: photo ID, lease, eviction or past-due notice, proof of income and your utility bill.
- Apply to more than one program. Funds run out, and each program has its own rules.
- Keep copies of everything you submit and write down who you spoke to.
When Rent Is Simply Too High
Sometimes rent assistance buys a month or two, but the rent itself is the problem. If that is your situation, a lower-cost, all-inclusive room may be more sustainable. Affordable Living Company rents furnished rooms in Hammond for $750 a month with utilities, Wi-Fi and laundry included, no long lease, no waiting list and no minimum credit score. See our rooms for rent in Hammond, emergency housing resources and low income apartments in Hammond.
Rent Assistance in Lake County, Indiana: FAQs
Who qualifies for rent assistance in Lake County, Indiana?
Each program sets its own rules. Township trustees look at income, household size and your emergency. Bring proof of income and your lease or notice when you apply for rent assistance in Lake County, Indiana.
How often can I get rent assistance in Lake County, Indiana?
Most programs limit how often you can receive help. Ask each office about its rules, and plan ahead for next month so you are not caught short again.
Where can I get rent assistance in Lake County, Indiana fast?
Start with your township trustee and Indiana 211. Township assistance is often the quickest local option for rent assistance in Lake County, Indiana.
Is there rent assistance in Lake County, Indiana for people facing eviction?
Yes. Contact your township trustee right away and call Indiana Legal Services at (219) 738-6040 for free legal help.
Can I get help with a NIPSCO shutoff notice?
Yes. Call your township trustee, check NIPSCO’s income-eligible programs, and ask about the Energy Assistance Program through CoAction or Lake County Community Services.
What if I need a cheaper place to live?
Check availability for our all-inclusive rooms, or call or text 219-200-0497.
