Section 8, also known as low-income housing, is a federally-funded housing assistance program in the USA. It helps place people in decent homes to provide them with a fair quality of life at an affordable price. If you’re looking for a Section 8 solution, there are some things you should know going in. Here are 10 facts about Section 8 housing.
1. Waitlists
Section 8 resources—homes—can be scarce. Because of this, there are often waitlists. Be prepared to see a delay in your application.
2. Preference
Those experiencing a crisis in their housing may receive preference on the waitlists. Situations such as homelessness or unsanitary and dangerous housing may qualify you for speedier assistance.
3. Moving
Receiving assistance from Section 8 does not prevent you from moving. You may take your assistance with you to a new address. To do so, be prepared to notify your Public Housing Authority one month before your move.
4. Voucher Limits
While the government designed Section 8 to help you, in most cases, it does not cover the entirety of your rent bill. Most tenants are required to pay 30% of all rent and utilities each month.
5. Securing Housing
While it is not a federal law that all landlords accept Section 8 vouchers, many local governments mandate that landlords cannot discriminate based on income or salary. This means your local laws can ensure property owners accept Section 8 vouchers without the ability to decline an applicant solely because they intend to pay rent through the program.
6. Freedom of Choice
One of the most popular benefits of Section 8 vouchers over other types of assistance, such as public housing, is the freedom to choose where you live.
7. Funding
While your local Public Housing Authority gives out vouchers, the funds do not come from your local or state government. Instead, these funds are provided by the federal government and allocated by your state government and local Housing Authority.
8. Responsibilities
Tenants are not the only ones with responsibilities during the duration of their lease. Both the landlord and the Public Housing Authority have responsibilities to meet as well. Landlords are required to upkeep the premises in a safe and sanitary manner, and the Housing Authority is required to inspect the rental property annually and adjust the amount they award in assistance.
9. Lease Duration
After the Housing Authority approves your application and you have selected housing, you are required to sign a lease with both the Housing Authority and property owner for a minimum duration of one year.
10. Purchasing A Home
In some situations, recipients may use their Housing vouchers to purchase a home (HUD Homes). This is not true in all areas and must be approved by your local Housing Authority.
If you want more information on Section 8 housing, check out our link below for some tips on how to speed up your application process!
Reference:
Getting Section 8 Application Approved Fast
