Overview of Housing Choice Vouchers Program (Section 8)
The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program (formerly known as Section 8) is a federally-funded, locally-administered rental assistance program that helps lower-income families, the elderly, and persons with disabilities afford safe, decent housing in the private market. Participants may choose any housing type that suits the needs of their family, as long as the requirements of the program are met.
Housing Connect receives funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to administer the HCV Program in Salt Lake County.
Section 8 Vouchers, part of the Housing Choice Vouchers Program (HCVP), provide financial assistance for eligible individuals and families to help pay a portion of their rent. Here’s how the program works and its benefits:
Application Process:
- Currently, there is no online application for Section 8 vouchers offered by EOHLC.
- You must complete a paper application and either mail it or deliver it in person to a Regional Administrating Agency (RAA).
Benefits:
- Financial Assistance: If you qualify, you will receive a voucher to cover a portion of your rent.
- Flexibility: You can use the voucher to rent a home anywhere in the country, provided the rental meets the program’s health and safety standards.
- Security: You have the option to remain in your current rental home if it meets program requirements.
How it Works:
- Voucher Calculation: The value of your voucher is based on the cost of similar units in your area. However, landlords set their rental rates independently.
- Tenant Contribution: Typically, you will pay 30% of your income towards rent, while the program covers the remaining portion directly to the landlord.
Key Advantages:
- Financial Assistance: Helps cover rent costs.
- Flexibility: Applicable to various housing types.
- Support for Vulnerable Groups: Targets families, seniors, and disabled individuals.
Eligibility for Section 8 Vouchers
Criteria for Eligibility:
- Income Limits: Eligibility is primarily based on your household’s total gross income, as determined by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
- Income Limits Tool: HUD provides a tool to help determine the Median Family Income in your area, which impacts eligibility.
- Demand and Waitlists: Due to high demand, there are often long waitlists. It’s crucial to keep your contact information updated with the agency to maintain your position on the waitlist.
Note: If you are eligible, being on a waitlist for an extended period is common. Keeping your information current is essential to ensure you don’t miss notifications and lose your spot.
Stability Vouchers
Stability Vouchers Overview:
- Target Group: The City of Boston offers Stability Vouchers for individuals and families at risk of homelessness, veterans, or those escaping domestic violence.
- Application: If you fit these criteria, contact the City of Boston’s Continuum of Care (CoC) program for more information and to apply.
How to Apply for Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
Application Methods:
- By Mail: Massachusetts residents cannot apply for Section 8 online currently. Applications must be mailed or submitted in person at a Regional Administering Agency (RAA).
Types of Vouchers:
- Tenant-Based or Mobile Vouchers: Can be used for any qualifying rental unit that meets health and safety standards.
- Project-Based Vouchers: Tied to specific housing units.
Steps to Apply for Tenant-Based or Mobile Vouchers:
- Download the Application Form: Find the form online and fill it out.
- Submit the Application: Email, mail, or deliver the completed form to one of the eight RAAs in Massachusetts. Addresses and directions are available online.
- Increase Your Chances:
- Contact Local Housing Authorities (LHAs): They have separate Section 8 vouchers and may increase your chances.
- Apply to MassNAHRO’s Centralized List: Visit www.section8listmass.org for more options.
Steps to Apply for Project-Based Vouchers:
- Contact an RAA: Learn how to apply directly from the RAA.
High Demand and Waitlists:
- Long Waitlists: Due to the high demand, waitlists can be very long, and some may be closed.
- Immediate Assistance: If you need urgent help, consider applying to the Residential Assistance for Families in Transition (RAFT) program first.
How to apply for a housing choice voucher
Your public housing agency can help you apply for a voucher and check the status of an application. Wait lists and long waiting periods for vouchers are common since HUD and the local housing agencies have limited resources. A public housing agency may temporarily close its waiting list when it has more families on the list than it can help.