Section 8 Housing, Do You Qualify?

Jul 14, 2011
Susan Barton

Section 8 Housing - shanc.org

Economic and housing issues effect many Americans. Government programs can be financial lifesavers, but the process is often far from simple.

Several people were hurt today after a stampeding crowd of hopeful area residents rushed the Jesse Owens Memorial Complex in Dallas, Texas when the doors opened to families hoping to receive a highly coveted Section 8 housing voucher. Authorities said they weren’t anticipating the huge, early turnout although people began lining up the night before. This wasn't the first time a situation like this has occurred. Last summer, a crowd of 30,000 people showed up at an Atlanta location seeking vouchers. As a result of the heat, confusion and frustration, the incident soon became a mob scene, resulting in 62 people being injured. One thing is certain, this incident suggests the voucher program is a popular one, attracting many hopeful families.

What are housing choice vouchers?

The Section 8, or Housing Choice Voucher Program, is a federally funded government program that helps low income families and individuals, the elderly and disabled citizens afford safe, well-maintained housing in the private housing market. The program's assistance is provided on behalf of a participating family or individual so they can find their own houses and apartments and not be limited to subsidized housing projects.

Who distributes vouchers?

Vouchers are distributed locally by public housing agencies (PHAs). These PHAs receive federal funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Once a family or individual meets the requirement to receive a voucher they’re responsible for finding a property owner who agrees to participate in the program, which can include the family’s current residence.

How is the subsidy paid?

The housing subsidy is paid directly to the landlord and the family is responsible to pay the difference between the amount subsidized and the amount charged by the landlord. Some circumstances allow the family to use the voucher to purchase a home.

Contacting HUD about vouchers

If you would like to find out if you qualify for a housing voucher, you may contact the HUD office near you to find information regarding your local PHA. Gathering your family income, assets and information on each family member beforehand is a good idea and will save time. If it’s determined that you’re eligible you will be put on a waiting list. The PHA will contact you when your name reaches the top of the list.

Waiting lists

Unfortunately, since there’s a significant need and so many applications are received for the housing voucher program, the wait can be quite long. Special preference is given to homeless families or those living in substandard housing, families paying more than 50% of their income for rent or families who have been involuntarily displaced.

Guidelines and responsibilities

Under the program, families and landlords must adhere to government guidelines with regards to the housing unit condition, safety and size. The PHA inspects the unit to be sure the rent being charged is reasonable. Once a qualifying rental unit is located, the tenant and landlord sign a lease and at the same time the landlord and PHA sign a contract that is good for the same amount of time as the lease.

As with any rental, the landlord is required to ensure that the dwelling is kept in a safe, clean and properly maintained manner. The PHA has the right to terminate assistance payments if the landlord neglects to do this. PHAs are required to inspect the dwelling at least once a year to be sure the unit meets at least minimum housing quality standards. PHAs must also reexamine the family’s income and other eligibility requirements at least once a year as well.

Not enough vouchers available

As was evident in both the Dallas and Atlanta situations, the voucher program is a popular, desperately needed one. But it’s woefully unable to assist all families interested in participating. As in the case of the Dallas program, more than 5,000 people arrived at that particular meeting, but officials estimate they’ll process as many as 15,000 applicants when all is said and done. With only 3,800 vouchers available over the next few years there’s no doubt many people will go unassisted. For more information on this and other government subsidized programs contact your local HUD office.