How to Apply for Section 8 Housing in Georgia
The state of Georgia offers low-income residents assistance in finding a safe and affordable home. Through the Section 8 housing program, families can find a home that they can reasonably afford.
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Instructions
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Determine whether you meet the requirements for Section 8 housing. In order to qualify, your household income must be less than 50 percent of the median income in your area. You will also need references, a clean criminal background and a good renting history with no evictions. Lastly, you must be or a U.S. citizen or have an eligible immigrant status.
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Collect the documentation needed to complete an application for Section 8 housing. This includes pay stubs, prior tax records, references and a birth certificate.
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Contact your area's public housing authority to receive an application.
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Complete your application. Some examples of the information you will need to provide include: the names of everyone who will be living in the home, previous rental history (including landlords), current address and phone number, household income, bank account and employer name. In addition, you will need to provide an explanation as to why you are applying for Section 8 housing. Be direct and, above all, be honest. An interview may also be needed in order to complete your application.
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Expect to be placed on the waiting list. The Department of Community Affairs will contact you by mail once your name reaches the top of the waiting list. At this time, you will be given the opportunity to update any information that may have changed since you submitted the application.
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Receive a housing voucher once your information is verified. You will be given 60 days to find a residence that meets HUD-requirements. Additionally, the monthly rent must be within your area's set limits and the landlord must be willing to participate in the Section 8 housing program.
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Tips & Warnings
The waiting list for your area must be open in order to receive an application. You may call 888-858-6085 to check the status.
Applications are given on a first-come, first served basis, so make sure you keep up with the information in your area.
On average, it takes approximately two years to reach the top of the waiting list in Georgia.
Once notified that you are on the top of the waiting list, you have only 15 days to respond. If you do not, your name will be removed from the waiting list, so make sure you notify the Department of Community Affairs if the address on your application changes.
If you are unable to find a home within 60 days of receiving your voucher, your name will be placed back on the waiting list.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit wood frame housing image by Daniel Gillies from Fotolia.com
