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U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Max Benefit
$24K
Enrollment Period
Open enrollment
Established
1974
The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program is the federal government's major program for assisting very low-income families, the elderly, and the disabled to afford decent, safe, and sanitary housing in the private market. Participants find their own housing and use the voucher to pay for all or part of the rent. The program is administered by local public housing agencies (PHAs).
Wait lists for Section 8 vouchers average 2–8 years. Apply as early as possible — many PHAs have closed waitlists.
People Helped
5 million households
with active vouchers
Annual Federal Budget
$30 billion
Average Benefit
Covers portion of rent — tenant pays 30% of adjusted income
Where Available
All 50 states (administered by ~2,200 local Public Housing Agencies)
Answer each question — we'll show you exactly what applies to your situation.
What is your household income?
This program uses Area Median Income (AMI) — the middle income for your local area — as its benchmark. Your limit is 50% of your area's AMI, which varies by location. Select your state and area to see your exact limit.
Are you a US citizen or qualifying non-citizen?
Do you not have violated any federal, state, or local anti-drug laws, or been evicted from public housing for drug-related activity within the last 3 years?
Do you not currently owe money to any public housing authority?
Do you pass criminal background check?