Once you’ve been approved for Section 8 and get a housing voucher, the next step is finding a place to live that accepts the voucher and meets program guidelines. 

The voucher helps cover a portion of the rent, but it’s important to understand how to use it effectively to find housing that suits your family’s needs.

You’re free to choose your own rental home or apartment as long as the property owner is willing to participate in the Section 8 program. Your local Public Housing Agency (PHA) may have a list of landlords or rental properties that accept Section 8, but you can also search on your own. 

When you’re looking for a place to rent, it’s important to let potential landlords know upfront that you’ll be using a Section 8 voucher, as they must agree to the terms of the program.

Once you find a home, the landlord must submit the rental property for inspection by the PHA. The inspection ensures that the property meets HUD’s standards for safety and quality.

Your Section 8 voucher covers a portion of your rent based on your income, with the PHA paying that amount directly to the landlord. The voucher will typically cover the difference between what you can reasonably afford and the fair market rent in your area.

You’ll be responsible for paying the remainder of the rent to the landlord each month. It’s important to remember that the voucher only covers rent—not other expenses like utilities, so you’ll need to budget accordingly.

You’ll need to meet a few ongoing requirements to keep your voucher and remain eligible for the Section 8 program. These include notifying the PHA of any changes to your income or household size, as your rental assistance may need to be adjusted. 

You’ll also need to comply with the lease terms set by your landlord. Failing to pay your share of the rent or violating lease terms could result in losing your Section 8 voucher.

In addition, PHAs may conduct annual or periodic re-certifications to ensure you’re still eligible for the program. This may involve submitting updated income information or attending an interview with a PHA representative.

A Section 8 voucher can provide much-needed housing stability for families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. By finding the right home, keeping up with your rent payments, and following the program’s guidelines, you can ensure that your housing assistance continues for as long as needed.

If you believe you qualify for Section 8, understanding how the program works and how to use your voucher effectively is key to making the most of this valuable resource. For many, Section 8 is more than just housing—it’s a lifeline to stability and security.