How to Find Housing Choice Voucher Openings in February 2026

• Author: Gerardo Kutch
• Posted: 2026-02-10

Waitlists often open for a very short window—sometimes only for a few days. To find out if a list is opening near you, follow these steps
:

1. Contact Your Local PHA: Search online for "Housing Authority" followed by the name of your city or county.
2. Check HUD.gov: The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) maintains a directory of all housing agencies.
3. Sign Up for Alerts: Many agencies allow you to sign up for email or text notifications when a waitlist is about to open.
4. Local News: Watch for announcements in local newspapers or on community bulletin boards, as agencies are required to advertise when they open a list.

 

Who is Eligible?

Eligibility is based on two main factors:
 

• Annual Gross Income: Your total household income cannot exceed 50% of the "median income" for the specific county or city where you are applying.
• Family Size: The number of people in your household determines the size of the voucher (number of bedrooms) you may receive.

Priority is often given to local residents, veterans, the homeless, or victims of domestic violence.
 

The Application Process

Applying for Section 8 is always free. If a website asks you to pay a fee to apply, it is a scam.
 

• The Lottery System: Because demand is so high, many agencies use a "lottery" system. This means they collect thousands of applications over a few days and then randomly pick a certain number to be placed on the actual waiting list.
• Online Applications: Most agencies now require you to apply online. Make sure you have access to a computer or smartphone. Many local libraries offer free internet access for this purpose.

 

What Documents Will You Need?

When the waitlist opens in February 2026, you will likely need to provide:
 

1. Social Security numbers for everyone in the household.
2. Proof of total household income (pay stubs, Social Security benefits, etc.).
3. Proof of citizenship or legal immigration status.
4. Current mailing address and phone number.

 

Final Tips for Success

 

1. Apply to Multiple Lists: You are allowed to apply to any open waitlist in the country, even if you don't live there yet (though local residents may get priority).
2. Keep Your Info Updated: If you get on a list and then move or change your phone number, you must update the housing authority. If they try to reach you and can’t, they will remove you from the list.
3. Be Patient: Even after getting on a waitlist, it can take months or even years to receive a voucher.

By staying informed and preparing your information early, you can increase your chances of securing affordable housing when the 2026 windows open.

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Read more: Essential Tips for First-Time Renters: A Guide to Securing Your First Apartment