The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program is one of the most important rental assistance programs in the United States. Administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), it helps low-income families, seniors, and people with disabilities afford safe, decent housing in the private market.
With rising rent prices and limited affordable housing, understanding how to qualify for Section 8, apply for a voucher, and find participating landlords in 2025 can make the difference between stability and housing insecurity.
This article covers everything you need to know — including eligibility requirements, how the application works, what documents you’ll need, and tips to improve your chances of approval.
What Is Section 8 Housing?
Section 8, officially known as the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program, is a federal rental assistance program that allows eligible families to rent homes or apartments from private landlords. HUD funds the program, but it’s managed locally by Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) in each city or county.
Here’s how it works:
- The family or individual applies through their local PHA.
- If approved, they receive a voucher that covers a portion of their monthly rent.
- The tenant pays around 30% of their adjusted income toward rent, and the voucher covers the rest — paid directly to the landlord.
Who Qualifies for Section 8 Housing in 2025?
To qualify, applicants must meet several federal and local criteria. These include income limits, citizenship or immigration status, and background screening.
1. Income Requirements
Your household income must be below 50% of the median income for your area (AMI — Area Median Income).
HUD updates these limits every year based on location and family size.
For example, in 2025:
- A single person in Los Angeles must earn less than around $45,000 per year.
- A family of four in Dallas must earn under roughly $65,000 per year.
Most PHAs give priority to households earning under 30% of the local median income. You can check your local limits at HUD’s income limit lookup tool
2. Family Status
Section 8 serves:
- Families with children
- Seniors (aged 62+)
- Individuals with disabilities
- Single adults meeting low-income criteria
Some PHAs also consider local preferences — for example, giving priority to veterans, homeless families, or domestic violence survivors.
3. Citizenship or Immigration Status
At least one household member must be a U.S. citizen or an eligible non-citizen (such as a lawful permanent resident). Applicants must provide documentation such as a Social Security card, birth certificate, or immigration paperwork.
4. Background Check
PHAs review:
- Rental history (no recent evictions for drug-related crimes)
- Criminal background
- Debt owed to other housing agencies
Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you, but violent or drug-related offenses may affect eligibility.
How to Apply for Section 8 Housing in 2025
Because each local PHA runs its own program, the application process can vary slightly. However, the general steps are the same nationwide.
Step 1: Find Your Local PHA
Visit HUD.gov and navigate to the “Find Your Local Public Housing Agency” tool.
You can search by state or county to locate contact information and online application portals.
Common high-traffic keywords:
- “Section 8 application online,”
- “apply for housing voucher,”
- “public housing authority near me.”
Step 2: Check if the Waiting List Is Open
Most PHAs have limited funding and long waiting lists. When demand exceeds available vouchers, PHAs close applications temporarily.
- If the list is closed, sign up for waiting list notifications or check back periodically.
- Some large cities (like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles) use a lottery system for new applicants.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
When the list is open, complete the application online or in person. You’ll need to provide:
- Names, birthdates, and Social Security numbers of all household members
- Current address and contact info
- Proof of income (pay stubs, benefits letters, tax returns)
- Proof of citizenship or eligible immigration status
- Current housing situation (e.g., rent amount, landlord info)
Pro tip: Keep copies of everything you submit. You may be required to provide verification during interviews or re-certifications.
Step 4: Wait for Eligibility Screening
After applying, the PHA verifies your income, household size, and background.
If you meet all criteria, you’ll be placed on the waiting list until a voucher becomes available.
Waiting times can vary widely:
- In smaller towns: a few months.
- In large metro areas: sometimes several years.
Step 5: Receive Your Voucher and Find a Unit
Once selected, you’ll receive a Housing Choice Voucher that states the maximum rent you’re approved for.
You can use it to rent:
- Apartments
- Townhomes
- Single-family homes
The unit must meet HUD’s Housing Quality Standards (HQS) for safety and livability. The local PHA inspects the property before you move in.
Step 6: Sign the Lease and Move In
After approval, you’ll sign a lease agreement with the landlord and a Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) contract between the PHA and landlord.
You’ll pay about 30% of your monthly adjusted income toward rent. The PHA pays the remainder directly to the landlord.
Example:
If your rent is $1,200 and your income qualifies you for a $900 subsidy, you’ll pay $300 out of pocket each month.
Tips to Improve Your Chances of Getting Section 8
- Apply to multiple PHAs. You can be on more than one waiting list at a time. This increases your odds of receiving a voucher faster.
- Keep your contact info updated. If the PHA can’t reach you, you might be removed from the waiting list.
- Respond quickly to mail. When your name comes up, you’ll need to provide updated documents fast.
- Ask about local preferences. Some PHAs prioritize veterans, domestic violence survivors, or residents of emergency shelters.
- Explore state and city programs. Many states have additional housing assistance or rental subsidy programs beyond Section 8.
Section 8 vs. Other Housing Programs
| Program | Description | Who It Serves |
|---|---|---|
| Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher | Federal program that lets families rent privately owned units with subsidies. | Low-income families, seniors, disabled individuals |
| Public Housing | Apartments owned and managed by PHAs directly. | Very low-income residents |
| Project-Based Section 8 | Assistance tied to a specific property rather than a portable voucher. | Residents of that complex |
| LIHTC Housing (Low-Income Housing Tax Credit) | Private developments offering below-market rents. | Moderate- to low-income tenants |
Common Myths About Section 8
Myth 1: Section 8 housing is only for people who don’t work.
Fact: Many participants are working families who simply don’t earn enough to cover rising rent costs.
Myth 2: You can only live in public housing projects.
Fact: Vouchers can be used for private apartments or homes that meet program standards.
Myth 3: Applying for Section 8 hurts your credit.
Fact: Applying does not affect your credit score; however, landlords may still check credit before approving a lease.
Stable Housing Is Within Reach
The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program remains one of the best paths to affordable, safe housing for millions of Americans in 2025.
While waiting lists can be long, applying to multiple PHAs, staying informed, and providing accurate documentation can significantly improve your chances.
If you or someone you know struggles to pay rent, visit HUD.gov or call your local housing authority to start your Section 8 application today.