How To

How to Apply for a Housing Voucher

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By eHow Contributing Writer
(8 Ratings)

Section 8 Rental Vouchers help low-income families find safe, private rental housing. Applications are available through the local Housing Authority.

Difficulty: Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Look up your city's Housing Authority in the government pages of the phone book. If it's not there, look under your county's name.

  2. Step 2

    Call and make an appointment. Ask what documents and identification you will need to bring.

  3. Step 3

    Order any vital documents you lack (birth certificates, marriage and divorce certificates, social security cards etc.).

  4. Step 4

    Go to your appointment and get a Section 8 Voucher application.

  5. Step 5

    Return the application promptly.

  6. Step 6

    Prepare for a long wait. You may be put on a waiting list.

  7. Step 7

    If you are approved, you can then find a place to rent. If it meets Section 8 standards, the Housing Authority will pay your landlord a portion of the rental payments.

Tips & Warnings
  • Realize that there is a standard formula by which your application is judged. If you do not meet the income requirements, you will not be approved.
  • Welfare-to-work vouchers are available for families in the work place.
  • Current vouchers (as opposed to certificates) allow you to look outside your Housing Authority's boundaries for housing. Ask your Housing Authority for details.

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