Have you fallen on hard times financially? It can sometimes be challenging to find a safe and secure roof over your head for you and your family. Have you thought about applying for Section 8 housing? It may be an affordable option for you. Here are a few ways to get started.
Virginia’s Section 8 Housing Program
The Virginia Section 8 Housing Voucher Program is a type of government assistance that helps low-income individuals and families obtain affordable housing. If you live in Virginia, you’ll have to apply in the county in which you reside in. You must meet eligibility guidelines per your county and state and you must provide the necessary proofs in order to obtain the voucher.
Do You Qualify? Understanding Section 8 Eligibility in Virginia
How do you know if you’ll qualify? One of the first things to consider is if you fit in the proper income bracket. This is referred to as income limits by HUD. For specific income limits that you must follow for your household, check here. Your gross annual income must fall below the average amount for your demographic area. A lot depends on this including how many total household members you have living with you currently and what their monthly income contribution is.
Applying for Section 8 Low-Income Housing In Virginia
Your first step in getting section 8 housing is to acquire a housing voucher. You can start by either applying online or contacting your local HUD section 8 specialist. They will help you with obtaining a section 8 Housing Virginia application. Your specialist will request that you bring the following proofs in order to help process the application. This includes:
- All record of employment and total income for each adult household member.
- Past rental history and notices of eviction (if applicable)
- Current place of residence proofs, including utility bills and rent deposits.
- Personal identification such as driver’s license, social security card, and birth certificate.
- Proof of legal residency.
- Medical documents highlighting disability (if applicable)
- Proof of all income with bank statements or records.
Having all of this information readily available within the requested date range will make the application process go smoothly.
Locating a Trustworthy Section 8 Landlord in Virginia
Choosing a Virginia landlord that you can trust can be hard. There are some that could take advantage of individuals with the hopes of placing them in a rental unit right away or moving them ahead on the waiting list. If your landlord asks for a large sum of money for a deposit, be sure to check their references first. Ask if the funds are refundable should you not get final approval to move in. Ask your friends and neighbors who they recommend as a good landlord. Contact HUD directly for a list of reputable landlords that they work with.
Section 8 Housing Openings in Virginia
Once you’ve been approved for an HCV, or housing choice voucher, you’ll want to make sure you can move into a rental unit that accepts HUD section 8 assistance. Aside from open enrollment for the program, many of the units that accept this payment assistance often have a backlog of rental properties. The waiting list to get into a unit can be extensive. If you are handicapped, disabled or elderly, you may go to the top of the list. Ask the management about these special considerations.
What’s a Section 8 Waiting List?
You may have heard a lot about waiting lists to obtain an apartment, but keep in mind that there is also a waiting list to receive your voucher as well. This starts with open enrollment. At this time, the Richmond Section 8 waiting list is currently open. Keep in mind that there are preferences and priority to elderly persons and those with a disability. The Norfolk Section 8 waiting list is currently closed. This means you can apply at any time, but your application won’t be processed and completed until open enrollment occurs.
Steps to Receiving Your Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher
Once you’ve met with the HUD staff and your application has been processed, they will contact you when you’re finally approved. This will depend on when applications are being accepted and the voucher is ready for use. In conclusion, what are the basic steps for getting approved and receiving your Section 8 housing voucher?
- Gather all personal information and documents from all family members.
- Bring original bank statements and proofs to your appointment date.
- Fill out the application in person or online.
- Accept the voucher and amount.
- Locate a landlord and apartment to rent.
From there, you can move in, and pay your monthly responsibility of the rent and utilities. The outcome is a safe and affordable living environment for you and your family.
