Section 8 / HCV — Housing Choice Voucher Program
The federal government's primary program for assisting very low-income families, elderly, and disabled persons to afford safe.
Official source: hud.gov
Tenants in the Housing Choice Voucher Program, also known as Section 8, pay 30% of their adjusted gross income toward rent. The voucher covers the rest of the rent, up to a local payment standard. This program helps very low-income families, elderly individuals, and disabled persons afford safe housing.
Local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) manage the program, but waitlists can be very long, often lasting 1 to 5 years or more. It is a good idea to apply to multiple PHAs in your area to increase your chances of receiving assistance.
There are also Project-Based Vouchers (PBVs), which are linked to specific housing units rather than to the family. This means that if a family moves, they may not take the voucher with them. A recent court ruling clarified when landlords must accept Section 8 vouchers in certain areas, which can help more families find housing.
In real life
- A family uses a Section 8 voucher to help pay their rent each month.
- Someone with a disability can get a Section 8 voucher to afford a safe home.
- An elderly person on a low income uses a Section 8 voucher to live in an apartment they choose.
Also known as
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Frequently asked questions about Section 8 / HCV
What is Section 8 / HCV?+
The federal government's primary program for assisting very low-income families, elderly, and disabled persons to afford safe, decent housing in the private market through rental subsidy vouchers. Tenants pay 30% of their adjusted gross income toward rent; the voucher covers the remainder up to a local 'payment standard.' Administered by local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs).
Who qualifies for Section 8 / HCV?+
Households with income at or below local limits set by HUD; priority often goes to seniors, people with disabilities, and families with children.
How do I apply for Section 8 / HCV?+
Contact your local Public Housing Agency to get on the waiting list. Find yours at hud.gov.
Where can I get help?+
Contact your local Public Housing Agency for Section 8, public housing, and LIHEAP. BenefitKarma's Find Benefits tool lists housing programs for your state.
Source: hud.gov