Indiana’s Section 8 Housing Program

Eligibility Team
Researcher & Writer
December 13, 2017

The Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority (IHCDA)  provides rental assistance to thousands of families. They primarily do  this through the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program, also known as the Section 8 program.

HVC is a federal program that’s funded by the Department of Housing  and Urban Development (HUD). However, HUD doesn’t manage the program.  The IHCDA oversees Housing Choice Vouchers in the state, and public  housing authorities (PHA) throughout Indiana manage the program at the  local level.

An Indiana Housing Choice Voucher allows you to rent a home on the  private market for a much more affordable rate. Eligible Indiana  residents only pay a maximum of 30-40% of their adjusted monthly income  on rent, and the voucher covers the rest.

Section 8 Eligibility in Indiana

Funding for Indiana Section 8 programs is limited. In order to serve  families who are in the most need, HUD has set eligibility requirements.  The local Indiana PHAs will process applications to determine which applicants qualify.

Section 8 Income Limits in Indiana

Eligibility for Indiana Section 8 programs is based on income first  and foremost. Those who don’t have a household income at or below the  local income limits will be ineligible. It’s important to review the income limits and your personal finances before applying.

Indiana Section 8 Eligibility FAQ

How do I qualify for Section 8 housing in Indiana?

In order to qualify for a Housing Choice Voucher in Indiana, you must first apply to verify you meet the Section 8 requirements.

How do I apply for Section 8 Housing in Indiana?

The Section 8 Housing Indiana Application is provided by your local  PHA. Print versions are available at the PHA office, and there may also  be an online option. In actuality, you’ll be applying to be put on a  waiting list when the list is open (see below).

Can I be disqualified or denied Section 8 assistance?

Yes. There are a number of disqualifiers even if you meet the income  limits. You can be disqualified if you have a criminal record,  outstanding balances with a landlord and/or Indiana PHA or commit fraud  during the application process. Those who’ve already received a Section 8  Housing Choice Voucher can be disqualified if they don’t continue to  meet the program obligations.

Section 8 Housing Openings in Indiana

As noted above, the application period isn’t open all the time in  many Indiana cities. If you are able to apply, you’ll be put on a  waiting list after your PHA determines you’re eligible for Section 8  assistance.

Section 8 Waiting Lists in Indiana

Section 8 waiting lists exist because the demand for assistance  exceeds the funds for the program. Generally speaking, large  metropolitan areas have longer waiting lists. It’s not uncommon for  applicants to remain on a waiting list for years at a time.

It should be noted that each Indiana PHA manages its own waiting  list. The PHA is in charge of adding applicants to the waiting list,  determining how the waiting list is prioritized and removing people from  the list if they no longer meet the Section 8 program requirements.

Here’s a brief look at how two Indiana PHAs manage their waiting lists:

South Bend Section 8 Waiting List

The Housing Authority of South Bend has waiting lists for 1-5 bedroom  rental units. If you’re on one of the waiting lists you can check your  status online.

Indianapolis Section 8 Waiting List

The Indianapolis Housing Agency uses a random lottery to place applicants on their Section 8 waiting list.

Steps to Using Your Indiana Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher

Using your new Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher is much quicker than  the wait. Typically, you’ll have to at least 60 days to complete the  steps below.

Step 1. Pass the Final Eligibility Interview

Before an Indiana Section 8 voucher will be awarded, the PHA will  verify that you still meet the eligibility requirements. They’ll call  you in for an interview and will likely ask that you bring certain  documentation with you.

Step 2. Find a Home That Qualifies

While the HCV program gives low-income families more living options,  not every private rental will qualify. The rental unit you select must  meet the Indiana Housing Authority Reasonable Rent Certification and HUD  Housing Quality Standards.

Step 3. Schedule the PHA Property Inspection

Before your local PHA will agree to use the voucher they must first  verify that the property meets the HUD requirements. They will go out  and inspect the property, also noting if it fits the approved rental  unit size.

Step 4. Sign the Lease

If the rental unit passes the inspection and the landlord agrees to  join the Section 8 program you can sign a lease. The program requires  that the lease be at least 12 months long.

Step 5. Stay Compliant With the Program

The PHA will inspect the property at least once a year to ensure you  and the landlord are staying compliant. You’ll also need to keep your  PHA informed if your information, income or family composition changes.

Eligibility Team
Written by
Eligibility Team
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