What is tenant-based rental assistance (TBRA)?
Tenant-based rental assistance (TBRA) is a housing subsidy attached to a person rather than a specific property, allowing eligible renters to use the benefit toward rent at any participating landlord's unit.
In tenant-based rental assistance, the subsidy follows the renter, not the building. A household receives a voucher or payment authorization that works at any landlord who agrees to participate in the program. This differs from project-based assistance, where subsidies are tied to individual units or properties.
TBRA matters because it gives low-income Texans choice and mobility. Rather than waiting for an opening at a subsidized apartment complex, renters can search for housing that fits their needs-location, school district, proximity to work-and then apply their assistance to that unit. Landlords benefit from stable, guaranteed rent payments through the program.
The subsidy typically covers the gap between what a household can afford (usually 30 percent of income) and the fair market rent approved for the area. The tenant pays their share, and the program covers the rest. Eligibility is based on income, family size, and other factors set by each program.
Texas administers TBRA through various state and local housing authorities. Housing assistance nonprofits and agencies help renters navigate applications, find participating landlords, and maintain their assistance throughout tenancy.