What Is Section 8?

Section 8 is a federal rental assistance program administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and delivered through local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs). The program provides vouchers that subsidize rent for eligible low-income households.

Unlike public housing (where you live in a government-owned building), Section 8 lets you choose your own housing from private landlords who agree to participate in the program. This gives you more flexibility in where you live.

How the Voucher Works

When you receive a Section 8 voucher, you pay approximately 30% of your adjusted monthly income toward rent and utilities. The voucher covers the difference between your payment and the local "payment standard" — HUD's estimate of fair market rent in your area.

For example, if the payment standard is $1,200/month and your 30% share is $400, the voucher pays $800 to the landlord. If you choose a unit that costs more than the payment standard, you pay the difference out of pocket.

Who Qualifies for Section 8?

To qualify for Section 8, you must meet income and other eligibility requirements:

• Income: generally at or below 50% of area median income (AMI); PHAs must give 75% of new vouchers to households at or below 30% AMI
• Citizenship: U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens
• Background: PHAs may deny applicants with certain criminal histories
• Current housing: no requirement to be homeless, but some PHAs prioritize those in urgent need
• Household composition: families, seniors, and people with disabilities are all eligible

How to Apply

To apply for Section 8, contact your local Public Housing Authority. You can find your local PHA at hud.gov. The application process typically involves:

• Submitting an application to the PHA (online, in person, or by mail)
• Providing documentation: ID, Social Security numbers, proof of income, and household information
• Being placed on the waiting list if the PHA is accepting applications
• Being contacted for an eligibility interview when your name reaches the top of the list
• Receiving your voucher and beginning your housing search

Finding Housing with a Voucher

Once you have a voucher, you typically have 60–120 days to find housing. The unit must pass a HUD Housing Quality Standards inspection and the rent must be reasonable compared to similar units in the area.

Not all landlords accept Section 8 vouchers, though some states and cities have laws prohibiting source-of-income discrimination. Ask your PHA for a list of landlords who participate in the program.

Waiting Lists

Section 8 waiting lists are often very long — sometimes years. Some PHAs close their waiting lists when demand far exceeds available vouchers. When a PHA opens its waiting list, apply immediately. You can be on multiple PHAs' waiting lists simultaneously.