How to Apply for Section 8 in Chicago
Section 8 is a subsidized housing assistance program for low-income individuals and families. With Section 8, the tenant is only required to pay about 30 percent of his monthly rent and the Section 8 voucher he receives will cover the rest. Prospective Section 8 landlords must have their property inspected and approved by a Section 8 office in order to rent to a tenant who is using Section 8 to pay rent. Because there is a waiting list, it's best to apply as early as possible for Section 8.
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Instructions
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Find out when the Chicago Housing Authority's (CHA) Voucher program is accepting applications for Section 8. The CHA announces when it is accepting applications for Section 8 or opening the waiting list so you need to get your application in during these times. Do not submit multiple applications because it will result in your process being delayed or denied. The waiting lists can last more than five years before new applications are accepted, so it's best to apply as soon as you hear it will be accepting applications.
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Contact the CHA at 312-786-3676 to get any information necessary for applying for Section 8. You can also visit Chicago Housing Authority's website for information or go directly to the CHA office located at 60 E. Van Buren. Because the office is busy, it's best to schedule an appointment to meet with someone at the CHA office to guarantee that you will be seen.
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Be completely honest when filling out your application or submitting any additional required information. Failure to do so will most likely result in you being denied for Section 8. When you apply, the agency will perform a credit check, criminal background check, drug test and an employment and economic evaluation. If you are approved for Section 8 and placed in housing, there will be home visits done by someone from the Section 8 office to make sure you're following the terms you agreed to and that you're keeping the residence in good order.
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Wait for your application and other checks to be processed. It may take a few weeks before you're notified whether or not you were approved. If you're on the waiting list for Section 8, it may take years for you to be approved and placed in any housing.
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