Beginner's Guide to Section 8: Eligibility, Benefits, and More

• Author: Bobby Kub
• Posted: 2024-06-16

The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program is a federally funded rental subsidy program that helps people with low-income access safe and quality rental homes. People who can't afford the market rent can receive assistance through this program and use their vouchers to pay for housing that meets certain criteria. This guide covers an overview of the Section 8 program, eligibility requirements, common misconceptions about the program, and how to apply for benefits.

 

Overview of the Section 8 Program

The primary means for individuals to access voucher benefits under this program is via their local Public Housing Agency (PHA). The PHA is responsible for evaluating your eligibility and providing a voucher if you qualify. The voucher amount is determined by the gap between a suitable rent amount defined by the PHA and what you are capable of paying.


The Section 8 voucher then covers the difference between what you can afford and the acceptable rent price, allowing you to live in safe, affordable housing. To be eligible for a voucher, you must fulfill specific eligibility conditions established by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

 

Eligibility Requirements

The Section 8 program's voucher is only available to those who fulfill HUD's requirements. Income level, along with other considerations such as disability and family composition, is a major factor in determining eligibility. Your family may qualify for financial aid if your annual income is at or below 50% (or 80% in certain situations) of the median income in your region. When determining a person's eligibility, HUD also considers their age, citizenship, wealth, and the number of people in their household.

 

Common Misconceptions About Section 8

There are several misunderstandings regarding the Section 8 program that may dissuade some persons from applying or landlords from accepting voucher tenants. One common misperception regarding this program is that it is only available to low-income people or families with no other income source. However, this is not always the case. People with modest salaries may also qualify, depending on the median income level in their region.
Another common misconception about the Section 8 program is that all tenants are "bad tenants" or pose a risk of property damage, which is not true; tenants receiving benefits must follow the same rules as other tenants while adhering to any additional policies imposed by their landlords/property managers to remain in good standing with their lease agreement.

How to Apply for Benefits

Applying for benefits under this program is simple; there are two main methods: online or in person at your local public housing agency office. Online applications are normally available on the HUD website; however, eligibility restrictions differ by state, so double-check them before completing an application form online. In-person applications need an appointment at your local PHA office, where you will be assisted in filling out the essential papers and confirming your qualifying status. Applying online generally takes less time than in person, so it's crucial to consider both alternatives before determining which is best for you.


Once HUD has approved your application, you will be given a voucher that specifies a reasonable rent amount that is equal to or less than 30 percent (80 percent in some cases) of an average household's annual gross income in the local area; this amount cannot exceed market rate rents being paid in similar properties in the same area, so it's important to familiarize yourself with rental rates in your area before looking for a property that meets these guidelines. Tenants may move into their approved property within certain periods stipulated by their individual state's laws upon receipt of their voucher from HUD (usually 90 days from issuance date unless extended by HUD) as long as all criteria between tenant/landlord agreements are followed.

 

Conclusion

The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program assists those who may not otherwise be able to find safe and affordable housing due to low incomes or other extenuating circumstances; applicants must meet certain criteria set forth by HUD before being approved for receiving benefits from this program but once approved they can begin their search for housing knowing they have assistance paying up to 30% (or 80% in some cases) of their monthly rent costs covered through their voucher amount issued by HUD upon approval. Don't forget many misconceptions about this policy, so consider these when researching properties that might also fit your needs!