How to Get Section 8 Housing Assistance in Missouri
In Missouri, low-income families can receive housing assistance in the form of a voucher from the Section 8 program. Section 8 is a federally-funded program that is designed to help families find affordable and safe housing. In order to get housing assistance in Missouri, you must apply for the program and meet its requirements. Requirements are based on citizenship status and income. Failure to meet those requirements may result in a denial of your request for assistance. The program is administered through local public housing authorities in the state.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Locate your local public housing authority office and request an application for Section 8 housing assistance in person at the office (see Resources). You must present your driver's license or state-issued identification card to fill out an application for assistance. The dates and times that applications are accepted vary by county. Contact your local PHA to determine when applications are being accepted.
-
2
Fill out the Section 8 application. Depending on your area, you may be required to fill out the application when it is first received at the PHA office. Do not skip any section of the application. Failure to properly complete the application may result in a delay in processing your request for assistance.
-
-
3
Submit your application to the PHA office. Ask the PHA representative for proof the application was submitted. After submitting your application, you will be placed on a waiting list. According to the Kansas City Housing Authority, the average wait for housing assistance is 1 to 3 years.
-
4
Attend an eligibility interview. When your application reaches the top of the waiting list, a letter will be mailed to you with an interview time and date. During the interview, you will be required to present documents to prove your family is eligible for the Section 8 housing program. You need to provide birth certificates, Social Security cards and proof of income documents for every member of your household. Proof of income can be previous year's tax return, W-2 forms or paycheck stubs.
-
5
Attend an informational session. When you are approved for assistance, you are required to attend a meeting detailing the requirements of participating in the Section 8 housing assistance program. During the session, a housing voucher will be issued to you. The voucher can be used to find a house at a public housing authority or a privately-owned residence.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
It is your responsibility to update any changes to your situation while you are on the waiting list for Section 8. If you move during that period, submit a written letter to your local PHA with the new address.
References
- Photo Credit Marcy Maloy/Digital Vision/Getty Images
