FAQ

Are Section 8 Waiting Lists Open in the United States?

As of April 23, 2024, AHO has identified 13 currently active waiting lists slated for closure in the near future. Alongside, AHO is closely monitoring an additional 482 waiting lists that remain open until further notice. AHO strongly advises prioritizing applications for the impending closure of waiting lists, given that many housing choice voucher programs lack a predetermined schedule for reopening their lists. However, it’s crucial to act promptly in applying to continuously open waiting lists as well, as closures may occur without ample warning. In summary, there are presently 495 available waiting lists for immediate application and an additional 16 waiting lists expected to open soon

How long were HCV waiting lists kept open in the United States in the last few years?

On average, Section 8 HCV waiting lists in the United States remained accessible for approximately 575 days over the past three years. A significant portion of these lists had brief durations of availability. Within the same timeframe, 25% were accessible for seven days or less, and 7.9% were accessible for only one day (or even just a few hours). Consequently, it’s crucial for low-income renters to promptly apply upon discovering an open waiting list.

To what extent do housing authorities in the United States increase access with online applications?

The availability of online applications simplifies the process for low-income renters to apply for open waiting lists, particularly when applying to multiple communities or when waiting lists have limited availability. Within the past three years, online applications accounted for 46.9% of waiting list submissions in the United States.

How fair is waiting list placement in the United States?

During the past three years, 19.9% of housing authorities in the United States utilized random lotteries to allocate applicants on their waiting lists. For applicants positioned at the lower end of a waiting list, the wait for a voucher offer can extend up to two or three years. Employing a random lottery to place applicants on a waiting list ensures that everyone has an equitable opportunity to secure a higher position on the list. Many housing authorities opt to rank applicants based on the date and time of their application submission. This approach can result in extended waits for assistance, particularly when waiting lists are only open for a few days or less, which is especially inequitable.

Is there an application fee for Section 8 waiting lists?

HUD regulations prohibit agencies from charging for a Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher application. Any instance of charging a fee for such an application indicates a violation of federal law or a fraudulent scheme. Refrain from paying for any application fees.

How does a Section 8 waiting list work?

To initiate the process, renters need to initially complete an application with a housing authority that has an active Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) waiting list. If there are no open waiting lists at present, applications cannot be accepted. Upon submission, the housing authority will compile a roster of eligible applicants, typically sorted either by a random lottery or the chronological order of application receipt. Given that many of these waiting lists have limited capacity, some qualified applicants may not secure a spot on the list. If the household qualifies and is chosen for placement on the waiting list, the housing authority will issue a confirmation. It’s important to note that certain waiting lists may prioritize applicants based on specific preferences, such as age or residency status, granting precedence to qualified households over others. Once on the waiting list, be prepared for an extended wait. Due to the substantial demand for the HCV program, waiting lists can stretch for several months or even years. Upon reaching the top of the waiting list, the household will undergo an eligibility interview to confirm qualifications. In the event that the household fails to meet the criteria, they can continue to apply to other active waiting lists for an opportunity to secure a voucher.