Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8)

Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8)

Managing Agency:

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

Program Description

The housing choice voucher program helps very low-income families afford safe and healthy housing. This can include single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. And housing isn’t limited to subsidized housing projects.

General Program Requirements

Public housing agencies (PHAs) handle housing choice vouchers locally. If you get a voucher, you must find housing where the owner agrees to rent under the program.

The PHA pays the landlord the housing subsidy on your behalf. You pay the difference between the actual rent cost and the amount of the subsidy.

To learn more, visit the Housing Choice Vouchers Fact Sheet page for details.

Application Process

To apply for a voucher, contact your local PHA.

Program Contact Information

You can find your local U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) office using HUD’s Local Office Directory.

If you have questions, contact the Public and Indian Housing (PIH) Customer Service Center. Or you may call us from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (ET), Monday through Friday, except federal holidays:

  • 1-800-955-2232

You may also visit HUD’s Public Housing Program page.
Last Updated: 10/26/2016