12 Charities That Help With Moving Costs in 2026

Moving to a new home is one of life’s most expensive transitions. Between security deposits, moving truck rentals, packing supplies, and utility setup fees, the costs can easily reach thousands of dollars. For families already living paycheck to paycheck, these expenses can feel insurmountable. Fortunately, there are charities that help with moving costs and programs designed to ease the financial burden of relocation.

Whether you are fleeing domestic violence, relocating for a job, facing eviction, or simply cannot afford the upfront costs of a move, this guide covers 12 organizations and resources that may be able to help with moving expenses in 2026.

National Organizations That Help With Moving Costs

These organizations operate across the country and can provide direct financial assistance, donated moving supplies, volunteer labor, or referrals to local resources that help cover relocation costs.

1. The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army is one of the most widely available charities that help with moving costs. Through their local offices, they provide emergency financial assistance that can cover moving expenses, security deposits, and first month’s rent. Some locations also maintain furniture banks and household goods programs that provide free furnishings for your new home. Assistance varies by location and available funding. Contact your nearest Salvation Army office or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY to ask about moving assistance in your area.

2. Catholic Charities

Catholic Charities agencies serve communities across all 50 states and help people of all backgrounds, not just Catholics. Many local agencies offer relocation assistance including help with moving costs, security deposits, and furnishing a new home. Their case managers can also connect you with additional resources for rent, utilities, and food assistance as you settle into your new location. Visit catholiccharitiesusa.org to find your nearest office. They also help with ongoing expenses — see our guide to charities that help with bills for more resources.

3. St. Vincent de Paul Society

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul provides direct person-to-person assistance through home visits. Their local conferences (chapters) can help with moving expenses, security deposits, furniture, and household items. Because assistance is provided through local volunteers, the process is often more personal and flexible than larger programs. Contact your local conference through a nearby Catholic parish or visit svdpusa.org to find help near you.

4. Modest Needs (Self-Sufficiency Grants)

Modest Needs serves working families who earn too much for government assistance but still struggle with unexpected expenses. Their Self-Sufficiency Grants can cover moving costs including truck rental, security deposits, and first month’s rent. Applications are submitted online and funded by individual donors. This is an excellent option for working families who have been turned down elsewhere. The key requirement is demonstrating that the assistance will help you maintain self-sufficiency. Visit modestneeds.org to apply.

5. Volunteers of America

Volunteers of America operates housing programs in many states that include relocation assistance. They specialize in helping veterans, formerly homeless individuals, and people transitioning out of difficult situations. Their case management approach means you get comprehensive support beyond just moving costs, including help finding housing, connecting with employment resources, and accessing ongoing support services. Visit voa.org to find programs in your state.

6. Domestic Violence Organizations

If you are fleeing domestic violence, there are specialized charities that help with moving costs specifically for survivors. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233) can connect you with local shelters that provide emergency relocation assistance, including transportation, temporary housing, and help setting up a new home. Many domestic violence organizations maintain emergency funds specifically for moving expenses and security deposits. These services are confidential and free. For additional support, see our guide to charities that help single mothers.

7. Jewish Family Services

Jewish Family Services agencies operate in many major cities and serve people of all backgrounds. They provide financial assistance for moving expenses, refugee resettlement support, and help establishing households. Their services often include case management, employment assistance, and connection to community resources. Even if there is no JFS office near you, they can often provide referrals to other organizations that can help. Visit jfna.org to find a local agency.

8. Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS)

LIRS and its network of local affiliates provide relocation assistance primarily for refugees, asylees, and immigrants. Services include help with housing placement, moving costs, household furnishings, and community orientation. If you are a newcomer to the United States, LIRS may be able to provide comprehensive relocation support. Contact them through lirs.org for referrals to local resettlement agencies.

9. Community Action Agencies

Over 1,000 Community Action Agencies across the country offer emergency assistance that can include moving costs. These agencies often administer federal and state funds for housing assistance, and many maintain their own emergency funds. Services may include help with security deposits, first month’s rent, moving truck costs, and utility deposits at your new home. Find your local CAA at communityactionpartnership.com.

10. Habitat for Humanity ReStore

While Habitat for Humanity does not typically pay for moving costs directly, their ReStore shops sell gently used furniture and household items at deeply discounted prices. This can dramatically reduce the cost of furnishing a new home. Some local Habitat affiliates also have programs that provide free household items to families in need. Additionally, Habitat’s homeownership programs can help eligible families purchase an affordable home with a manageable mortgage.

11. United Way 211

Dialing 211 connects you with a trained specialist who can identify every available resource for moving assistance in your community. The 211 database includes charities that help with moving costs, government programs, church benevolence funds, and emergency assistance programs that may not be widely advertised. This should be one of your first calls when facing a move you cannot afford. You can also visit 211.org to search online.

12. Local Churches and Faith-Based Organizations

Many individual churches, mosques, synagogues, and other houses of worship maintain benevolence funds that can help with moving expenses. This is one of the most underutilized resources available. Even if you are not a member of the congregation, many faith communities will help people in their area who are in need. Call local churches and ask to speak with their pastor or benevolence committee about emergency moving assistance. For additional resources, see our guide to charities that give money to individuals.

Government Programs That May Help With Moving

Several government programs can assist with relocation costs under certain circumstances.

TANF Emergency Assistance

The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program in some states provides emergency assistance that can cover moving costs, security deposits, and first month’s rent. Eligibility and benefits vary significantly by state. Contact your local Department of Social Services or TANF office to inquire about emergency relocation assistance in your state.

HUD Housing Programs

The Department of Housing and Urban Development offers several programs that can help with housing costs, which may indirectly reduce your moving burden. Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) are portable, meaning you can transfer them when you move. Some Public Housing Authorities also provide security deposit assistance. Contact your local PHA for details on available programs.

FEMA Disaster Relief

If you are relocating due to a natural disaster, FEMA’s Individual and Households Program can provide assistance with temporary housing, moving costs, and re-establishing your home. Apply at disasterassistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362 after a presidentially declared disaster. Also check our free financial assistance organizations guide for additional disaster recovery resources.

How to Get Help With Moving Costs

Follow this step-by-step approach to maximize your chances of getting assistance with moving expenses:

Step 1: Call 211. This is the fastest way to identify all available resources in both your current and destination communities. The specialist can create a personalized list of charities that help with moving costs that you qualify for.

Step 2: Document your situation. Gather proof of income, identification, proof of your current housing situation (eviction notice, lease, etc.), and any documentation of special circumstances like domestic violence, job relocation, or disability.

Step 3: Apply to multiple organizations. Do not put all your eggs in one basket. Apply to several charities and programs simultaneously, as funding is limited and not every application will be approved.

Step 4: Ask about in-kind assistance. Even if an organization cannot pay for your move, they may be able to provide boxes, packing supplies, furniture, or volunteer labor to help you move.

Step 5: Check both your current and destination communities. Resources may be available in either location. Some communities have welcoming programs for new residents that include relocation support.

Tips to Reduce Moving Costs

While seeking assistance, take practical steps to minimize your moving expenses. Declutter before you move by donating or selling items you no longer need, since fewer belongings means a smaller truck and less time. Ask friends and family for help with packing and loading rather than hiring movers. Collect free moving boxes from grocery stores, liquor stores, and online community groups. Move on a weekday or mid-month when moving truck rental rates are typically lowest. Compare quotes from at least three moving companies if you do need professional help, and check for hidden fees. Use your personal vehicle for small or fragile items to reduce the load on a rental truck.

If you are moving to escape an unsafe situation, prioritize your safety over minimizing costs. The organizations listed above that serve domestic violence survivors understand urgency and can help you move quickly. For help with ongoing expenses after your move, visit our guide to charities that help with rent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get help with moving costs if I have a job?

Yes. Many charities that help with moving costs serve working families. Modest Needs specifically targets people who are employed but face a temporary financial crisis. The Salvation Army, Catholic Charities, and Community Action Agencies also help working families. Some employers also offer relocation assistance — ask your HR department if this benefit is available.

How much moving assistance can I receive?

Amounts vary widely by organization and location. Some charities provide $200-500 toward moving costs, while others may cover several thousand dollars including security deposits and first month’s rent. Government programs like TANF emergency assistance may provide more substantial help. Applying to multiple organizations can help you piece together enough assistance to cover your full moving expenses.

Do I need to be moving within the same state?

Most programs do not restrict you to in-state moves, but some local charities may only help residents of their service area. National organizations like Modest Needs and Catholic Charities can assist with interstate moves. If you are moving to a different state, contact resources in both your current location and your destination to maximize available help.

Can charities help with security deposits too?

Yes, many charities that help with moving costs also assist with security deposits, which are often the largest upfront cost of a move. The Salvation Army, Catholic Charities, and TANF emergency assistance programs frequently cover security deposits. Some communities also have security deposit loan programs that provide interest-free loans repaid over time.

What if I need to move immediately due to an emergency?

For emergency moves, especially those related to domestic violence, natural disasters, or unsafe living conditions, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233), your local 211, or the Red Cross immediately. These organizations have emergency protocols and can mobilize resources quickly. Local shelters and churches can also sometimes provide same-day or next-day assistance for urgent situations.

Conclusion

Moving does not have to be a financial crisis. While the costs can be daunting, there are numerous charities that help with moving costs and government programs designed to help families who need assistance relocating. The key is to start early, apply to multiple programs, and take advantage of every resource available to you.

Begin by calling 211, then reach out to the national organizations listed in this guide. With persistence and the right support, you can make your move without breaking the bank.

More Charity Resources

Want additional guidance? See also financial assistance programs, housing assistance, home improvement help.