- Rental Program
- Statewide
Summary
The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program is a form of government rent assistance that provides vouchers to help low-income families, seniors, and people with disabilities afford decent, safe, and sanitary housing [2][4]. The program allows families to move without the loss of housing assistance, as long as they notify the Public Housing Authority (PHA) ahead of time, terminate their existing lease within the lease provisions, and find acceptable alternate housing [1]. The amount of the voucher is determined by the renter's income and the market rate of their rental home [5]. The program is designed to give families greater flexibility in choosing where to live and can be used for privately owned single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments [4]. According to ProPublica, in 2018, upwards of 5 million people across the country lived in a household that used a voucher [3].
Eligibility Requirements
- The applicant(s) must be a U.S. citizen or legal immigrant with eligible immigration status.
- The applicant(s) must meet the PHA's income limits, which vary depending on the area and family size.
- The applicant(s) must pass a criminal background check.
- The applicant(s) must provide social security numbers and valid identification.
- The applicant(s) must meet other eligibility criteria set by the PHA, such as family size and composition, and the status of each member of the household.
- Additionally, some PHAs may have their own specific eligibility criteria, so it's important to check with the local PHA for detailed information on their program.
Contact Information
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development
7800 Harkins Road
Lanham, MD 20706
Phone: 301-429-7400