How To Minimize Section 8 Waiting Times

Section 8, or the newly-named Housing Choice Voucher program, can help low-income households with rental assistance. Since so many people require such help, demand for the vouchers far exceeds the supply.

What does this translate to? Sitting on a long waiting list that could take months or even years to process your voucher, even after your application is approved.

While the upcoming tips may not get you a Housing Choice Voucher tomorrow, they can speed up the process so you can get the funding you need sooner.

1. Make sure your application is accurate.

Before you can even make the Section 8 waiting list, you’ll have to get approved. And to get approved, you’ll have to make sure you meet the program’s prerequisites, and all of your information is correct and up to date.

One tiny error on your application could lead to a rejection by your local Public Housing Agency (PHA). For this reason, you want to be accurate and take your time while filling out your Section 8 application.

It’s equally important to update any changes in your information too. For instance, if any of the following change, you’ll need to note it in your application:

• Address
• Phone number
• Email address
• Income
• Family composition
• Waiting list preferences

Your contact information is especially crucial. If the PHA needs to contact you and can’t due to outdated info, you may be taken off the waiting list.

2. Pay attention to the waiting time.

Since some waiting lists can take years to process, contact your PHA to find out where you stand. This can help you better plan your next moves.

Some PHAs will tell you how long you’ll have to wait, or they’ll reveal your placement on the list so you can see any progress.

3. Notify your PHA of any preferences that may apply to your situation.

Some situations can receive preferential treatment on the waiting list, such as:

• Victims of domestic violence.
• Families affected by natural disasters.
• Veterans.
• Local residents.
• The homeless.
• Anyone paying over half their income in rent.
• Anyone living in substandard housing.

If any of those apply, be sure to mention it to your PHA. It could reduce your Section 8 waiting time.

4. Search for other open waiting lists.

Your PHA can let you know of other open waiting lists you can sign up for. This strategy can accelerate your wait time by broadening your options.

5. Prepare yourself by looking at housing.

Look for Section 8 housing in your desired area while you wait. Even if you don’t have the Housing Choice Voucher yet, knowing what’s out there can keep you prepared for when your name is called.

6. Always check your status.

As mentioned, an application with inaccurate data could lead to removal from a waiting list. Unless you check your application’s status periodically, you may not know if you were removed, which could lengthen your waiting time even more as you’ll need to re-apply.

7. Sign up for notifications.

If possible, sign up for SMS or text message notifications from PHAs or property owners so you can be instantly notified of any news. The quicker you can respond, the faster you can get your voucher and Section 8 home.