A Guide on How Section 8 Housing Works

Essentially called the Housing Choice Voucher, the Section 8 Housing program lets private landlords rent out their properties at reasonable prices to low-income occupants. This rent assistance program is funded by the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

The “Section 8” term was coined from Section 8 of the 1974 Housing and Community Act, which brought about the program’s implementation. The goal of this act was for low-income earners to have access to good accommodation at subsidized rates.

The beneficiaries of this program get vouchers that the government uses to pay the rent to their landlords directly. These vouchers could either pay the rent partially or fully. 

To receive the vouchers, you need to meet the requirements for the voucher. Then you must get approved. Finally, you need to find a Section 8 property deemed appropriate or suitable by the department in charge. After that, you will begin to receive payments.

While applying for your housing choice voucher, you should know that you will be required to provide your household’s total income. This will determine whether or not you and your family meet the stipulated requirements for the program.

Know that after applying for a voucher, you will be placed on a waitlist. Therefore, it is advisable for you to apply to as many waitlists as you can, pending the first responses you receive.