Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to the program?
The How to Apply section explains the steps you should take to apply to the Seattle Senior Housing Program.
Where are Seattle Senior Housing Program buildings located?
Buildings are located throughout Seattle. The Locations section includes a map of most of these properties, along with information about each, including the types of apartments offered, parking options, nearby bus routes, and the surrounding neighborhood. Each building has an elevator, laundry facilities, and is accessible. All units are carpeted and unfurnished, but include ranges and refrigerators.
How much rent will I pay?
New residents are charged one of four rent levels, depending on income, the number of people in the household, and the number of bedrooms. Most units have one bedroom, but applicants may request a two-bedroom unit. Two-bedrooms units have higher rent. You pay for your electricity, and gas where applicable. Water, sewer, and garbage are paid by the Seattle Senior Housing Program.
| Income, one person | 1-bedroom rent | 2-bedroom rent |
|---|---|---|
| $9,144 to $11,800 | $254 | $279 to $354 |
| $11,801 to $17,700 | $404 | $429 to $504 |
| $17,701 to $23,600 | $572 | $597 to $672 |
| $23,601 and over | $744 | $769 to $844 |
| Income, two people | 1-bedroom rent | 2-bedroom rent |
|---|---|---|
| $9,144 to $13,480 | $254 | $279 to $354 |
| $13,481 to $20,250 | $404 | $429 to $504 |
| $20,251 to $26,960 | $572 | $597 to $672 |
| $26,961 and over | $744 | $769 to $844 |
Every January 1, monthly rent is adjusted according to the Seattle Senior Housing Program's rent policy.
Will I have to pay a security deposit?
Yes. You will be required to pay a security deposit of $75 for a one-bedroom or $125 for a two-bedroom. You will also be charged a non-refundable cleaning fee in the same amount. An additional $100 deposit is required for cats.
As of Oct. 1, 2009, you will be required to pay a security deposit of $125 for a one-bedroom or $175 for a two-bedroom. The non-refundable cleaning fee will be $125 for a one-bedroom and $175 for a two-bedroom.
Will I have to sign a lease?
Yes.
How long does it take to get housing?
The wait for housing depends on the number of approved applicants ahead of you on the waiting lists for the buildings you have chosen. Your wait may be as short as two weeks or as long as several years.
Can I live in a particular area of the city?
Yes. Waiting lists are maintained for each building, and you may choose to join a waiting list for up to two buildings.
May I switch my waiting list choices later?
Yes, you may switch waiting lists. If you switch, the date of your application will change to the date you made the switch.
Can I be on both the Seattle Senior Housing Program waiting list and other Seattle Housing Authority program waiting lists?
Yes, if you are eligible for both programs. However, when you receive housing you will be removed from all waiting lists except for the Housing Choice Voucher Program.
Are pets allowed in Seattle Senior Housing Program buildings?
Cats—one only—are allowed in four buildings: Columbia Place, Fremont Place, Pinehurst Court, and Wildwood Glen. Dogs are not allowed in any buildings. Birds and fish are allowed in all buildings.
What if I have special needs?
Please tell us if you need assistance of any kind to access our services, and let us know if you need special features in your housing. (For example, we can often provide large print materials, wheelchair accessibility, customized interviews, and housing in specific locations.) If you need an interpreter or a translator, tell us, and we will provide one for you. We will make every effort to meet your needs.
How do I change my address with Seattle Housing Authority?
Write a brief letter that includes your name, Social Security Number, previous address, and new address. Mail this letter to:
Seattle Housing Authority
Seattle Senior Housing Program Admissions
P.O. Box 19028
Seattle, WA 98109-1028
Please note that changing your address with the United States Postal Service does not change your address with Seattle Housing Authority. You must update us separately.
May I add or remove others from my application?
You may add or remove people from your application by submitting the change in writing to the Seattle Senior Housing Program at the address listed above. Please include your name and Social Security Number and the information to be changed.
Adding or removing people may affect your eligibility for some units. If the change affects your eligibility for a unit of a certain size (as measured by the number of bedrooms), you will be moved to the waiting list for the correct unit size. Your date of application stays the same.
How do I cancel my application?
You may cancel your application at any time by writing to the Porchlight Building at the address listed above. When cancelling your pre-application, please include your name and Social Security Number and the program(s) for which you applied.
Does Seattle Housing Authority verify personal information?
Yes. At various stages of the application process, Seattle Housing Authority may verify all sources of your income, your credit records, your criminal history and your residential history. Seattle Housing Authority will not share your personal information with others.
