High housing costs leave millions of older adults with little money left over to pay for other needs, such as food and medical care. HUD's Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program can help people with limited income find and pay for decent private housing for an improved quality of life.

If you feel burdened by high housing costs, this program may be able to offer some relief. The first step to getting Section 8 housing assistance is to apply.

How do I apply for HUD's Housing Choice Voucher Program for Section 8 housing?

To apply for Section 8 housing, you must contact your local housing authority. You can visit the HUD website and select your state to see a list of housing agencies near you. There are 3 possible ways to complete the application, but your options may depend on where you live:

  • By filling out and mailing a paper application
  • By completing an online application
  • By applying at your local housing authority's office

What information do I need for the application?

The application will ask you to provide specific information for all household members, which may include but is not limited to:

  • Name, date of birth, and Social Security number
  • Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal immigration status
  • Proof of current residence
  • Proof of income from all sources (for example, pay stubs or tax forms)
  • Landlord references

Since the program focuses on providing safe housing, all adults in the household must also get a criminal background check. 

How long does it take to get approved?

It can take weeks to months for your application to be processed. It is important to fill out your application as completely as possible to avoid any delays. Once processed, you will be either approved to start getting the voucher, approved but put on a waitlist, or denied.

The demand for housing assistance is often greater than the funding in many areas, and long waiting periods are common. 

Housing authorities also have the right to help some people on the waitlist before others, such as those who are homeless or living in unsafe or unsanitary housing conditions.

How can I learn more about Section 8 housing?

Get more information about Section 8 housing—including how to apply—here on our free, private, online tool. BenefitsCheckUp, the site you're currently on, connects millions of older adults and people who have disabilities with benefits programs that can help them worry less and age better.

Click below to learn more about how it works!