Understanding Credit Considerations for Section 8 Housing Applicants

• Author: Courtney Erdman
• Posted: 2025-08-19

The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program helps low-income people and families find affordable homes to rent. If you’re considering Section 8 housing, you might wonder if your credit history matters.
 

Is There a Credit Check When Applying for Section 8?

When you apply for a Section 8 voucher, the housing authority does not check your credit. They look at your income, family size, and citizenship status, not your credit score.
 

Will Landlords Check My Credit?

After you get a voucher and start applying for rental homes, individual landlords may check your credit as part of their application process. They want to make sure tenants can pay rent on time.
 

Why Does Your Credit Score Matter to Landlords?

Landlords use credit checks to see how you handle money. A good credit report—showing bills paid on time—can make landlords feel comfortable renting to you.

A low score or unpaid debts might make landlords worry about missed rent payments.
 

What If Your Credit Isn’t Good?

You don’t need good credit to qualify for Section 8, but poor credit can make it harder to rent from some landlords. To help your case, you can:
 

• Show proof of regular income, like pay stubs or bank statements.
• Provide letters from past landlords saying you paid rent on time.
• Offer a larger security deposit.
• Ask someone with good credit to co-sign your lease.

To improve your credit, pay bills on time, keep credit card balances low, and check your credit report for mistakes.
 

Can Landlords Deny Applicants Because of Credit?

Landlords are legally allowed to use credit history when deciding who to rent to. But, according to the Fair Housing Act, they must treat everyone equally—regardless of race, religion, gender, disability, or family status.

If a landlord turns you down because of your credit, they must notify you and tell you how to get a free copy of your credit report.
 

What Does This Mean for Section 8 Applicants?

If your credit isn’t perfect, be honest with landlords and show other ways you’re reliable. Bring proof of income, rental history, and explain any issues on your credit report.

While credit matters to some landlords, it doesn’t have to stop you from finding a home with Section 8.

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Read more: U.S. States and Cities Opening Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) Waitlists in August 2025