The Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8) is a federal program administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) that helps low-income families, elderly persons, veterans, and disabled individuals afford housing in the private market.
15 steps across 2 sections
1. Tenant Rent Calculation
- $480 per dependent
- $400 per elderly family or person with disability
- Childcare expenses (for work or education)
- Medical expenses exceeding 3% of income (elderly/disabled families)
- Disability assistance expenses
2. Housing Quality Standards (HQS)
- Sanitary facilities (bathroom with toilet, sink, tub/shower)
- Food preparation/refuse disposal (kitchen with stove, refrigerator, sink)
- Space and security (adequate living space, lockable doors)
- Thermal environment (adequate heating, cooling in some areas)
- Illumination and electricity (adequate lighting, working electrical)
- Structure and materials (sound roof, walls, floors)
- Interior air quality (no lead paint hazards for children under 6)
- Water supply (safe, adequate hot and cold water)
- Lead-based paint (inspection for pre-1978 units with children under 6)
- Access (accessible entrance for disabled tenants if applicable)
Common Mistakes
- Not applying to multiple PHAs
- Missing the application window
- Not updating your contact information
- Incomplete applications
- Not understanding the time limit to find housing
Pro Tips
- Apply everywhere you are willing to live
- Apply for preferences
- Start your housing search before receiving the voucher
- Contact your local Housing Authority regularly
- Know your rights against discrimination
Sources
- Housing Choice Voucher Tenants — HUD.gov
- Section 8 Housing — USAGov
- Housing Choice Voucher Program Section 8 — HUD.gov
- Apply for Section 8 HCVP — Mass.gov
- Section 8 HCV Program — NY HCR
- Step-by-Step Guide: Applying for Section 8 in Tennessee — Tenant-Rights.com
- Sec 8 Applicants — NYCHA
- Eligibility for Section 8 — Maryland People's Law Library