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If you are looking to rent or own a home, you will find a variety of resources below.
If you have not aged out of Florida's foster care system, you may be eligible to live in Subsidized Independent Living (SIL). SIL allows you to live on your own, but you will still be involved with the Department of Children and Families.
Entering into a lease at 17
The court can give you a paper - called an order - that will permit you to enter into a lease at the age of 17. This is called "removal of disability of non-age". § 743.045 and § 39.701(6)(a).
Young Adults Formerly in Foster Care
Remaining in Licensed Foster Care Placement: Even when you leave the system, you may be eligible to live in your current licensed foster care or in another licensed foster home arranged by the department.
When you have left the system, there are a variety of resources to help you find a home. Don't forget that you may be entitled to Transitional Services, Aftercare Services and / or the Road to Independence Scholarship Program. Your Independent Living counselor can help you find a place to live.
Before you sign a rental agreement (lease), be sure you know what you will be responsible for and what your landlord will be responsible for - repairs, utilities, etc. Read before you sign! Visit HUD's Rental Help page.
This is different than Subsidized Independent Living
- Floridahousingsearch.org is a free, online affordable housing locator service that makes it easier to find affordable rental housing around the State. This locator is part of Florida Housing’s ongoing effort to respond to housing needs in general and specifically during natural disasters
Utility Bills
Legal Issues
The Florida Public Interest Research Group has put together a wonderful online guide to your rights as a renter, with information on everything from rental agreements, to security deposits, to the rules around evictions, and other helpful resources
Rights and Duties of Tenants prepared by the Florida Bar
If you feel like your landlord is discriminating against you because of your religion, age, sexual orientation, disability or marital status you can call:
- Call the Florida Housing Discrimination hotline at 1-800-342-8170
- Car Ownership Issues See the Life Skills Section under Driver Education to learn about car ownership, insurance and licensing.
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