How to apply for Section 8

Step 1: Find the housing authorities that serve your area

Most cities and many counties have their own public housing agency, and some states run a statewide voucher program for areas without one. You can apply to several agencies at once, and that is the single best way to shorten your wait.

Use the search on this site or open your state page to see every agency with its phone number and address.

Step 2: Check that you meet the income limit

In most cases your household income must be at or below 50% of the area median income (the "very low income" limit). Public housing allows up to 80%. The limits change by county and household size.

Use our income limits tool with your county and household size before you apply.

Step 3: Wait for an open waiting list

Demand is much higher than funding, so most agencies only accept applications while their waiting list is open. Some keep it open all year; many open it for a few days and announce it on their website, in local newspapers and on social media.

Ask the agency how it announces openings and whether it uses a lottery or first come, first served.

Step 4: Submit the pre-application

The pre-application is short: names, dates of birth and Social Security numbers of household members, contact details, estimated income and any preference you claim (for example, local resident, elderly, disabled, homeless or veteran, depending on the agency).

It is usually online. Housing authorities generally do not charge to apply, and HUD does not allow application fees in public housing: be wary of any website that asks for payment to apply.

Step 5: Keep your place on the list

Report any change of address, phone or email in writing. Agencies periodically send letters asking if you are still interested; if you do not answer by the deadline, you are removed.

Step 6: Final eligibility interview and briefing

When your name reaches the top, the agency verifies income, citizenship or eligible immigration status, and criminal and rental history. Bring the documents on our checklist.

If you are approved for a voucher you attend a briefing, receive the voucher and usually have at least 60 days to find a unit whose owner accepts it. The unit must pass an inspection before the lease starts.