The Housing Choice Voucher Program, often called Section 8, helps people with low incomes afford safe and stable housing.
The program is run by local Housing Agencies, also called Public Housing Authorities (PHAs).
A housing voucher helps pay part of your rent each month.
How Section 8 Works
Here is a simple overview of how the program works:
You apply for a voucher through a local PHA.
If you qualify and are selected, you receive a housing voucher.
You find a rental home where the landlord accepts vouchers.
The PHA pays part of the rent directly to the landlord.
You pay the rest of the rent, usually around 30% of your income.
The voucher helps make housing more affordable while letting you choose where you want to live.
Who Runs the Section 8 Program?
The Section 8 program is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) but it is managed locally by PHAs.
Each PHA may have slightly different:
Eligibility rules
Application processes
Waitlist procedures
Tip: To find your local PHA, search AffordableHousing.com’s directory of Housing Agencies.
Getting a Housing Voucher
To receive a Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher, you must apply for housing assistance.
Because of high demand for Section 8 vouchers, many PHAs use waiting lists. To get your name on the list, find an open waiting list near you and apply.
Finding Housing with a Voucher
After receiving a voucher, you can search for Section 8 housing on AffordableHousing.com where landlords accept vouchers.
You can often choose:
However, the unit must:
Meet program rules
Pass a housing inspection
Have rent within the allowed limits
To start your Section 8 housing search, visit AffordableHousing.com, enter your search location, and apply the filter for “Owner has experience with Section 8 / HCV Program.”