The Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) program helps you get decent, safe, and sanitary housing in the private rental market. Section 8 pays a portion of your monthly rent directly to your landlord. The amount it pays is the difference between the full rent amount (or the payment standard established by the agency) and no more than 30% of your adjusted gross income. The actual amount the program will pay to your landlord will depend on 3 things:

• Household income from all sources (earned and unearned), such as money you get from a job (does not include Senior Community Service Employment Program income), Social Security, Supplemental Security Income, and interest
• How many people live in your household
• County you live in

If you meet the program guidelines, you can get Section 8 help in your present apartment if your landlord agrees to participate in the program.

Please note: Depending on where you live and the amount of assistance available, you may be placed on a waiting list. Because of limited resources, long waiting lists are common.

How do I apply?

To find out how to apply, please contact your local public housing agency office.