Section 8 Housing Voucher and Section 8 Housing Rent Assistance Voucher are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they aren’t actually the same thing at all. This article will explain the difference between the two and what each term means so you can figure out which one applies to your specific situation or where you want to use it in the future.
How to get it
There are two ways to get a voucher. Your local Public Housing Authority (PHA) administers your housing voucher if you live in public housing, or if you qualify to live in public housing, but there are no units available. If your income makes you eligible for a voucher and there are units available, you can apply directly with an agency that administers vouchers (known as an Independent Management Entity or IHE).
How does it work
The voucher program provides monthly rental assistance to eligible low-income families and individuals. The voucher may be used by a family to rent any available privately owned housing that meets minimum standards of health and safety, without restriction to particular neighborhoods or landlord preferences.
Where you can use the voucher
The voucher can be used in many areas of a state. For example, if you live in California then Section 8 will help you find a place to rent that accepts vouchers. You may also be able to use it in other states. However, each state will have its own limitations on where you can use your voucher. Be sure to check with your local government to see where it can be used before applying for a rental program like section 8 housing rent assistance voucher.
You must pass an inspection
The landlord or owner of a rental property must make sure that your unit meets certain housing quality standards. The inspection also helps identify any problems with a unit, such as mold or broken windows. You can also use it to see if there are any safety issues in a rental property and how they might be fixed. Lastly, you should know that during an inspection, inspectors may look at electrical cords to make sure they are safe and not frayed or worn.
Proof of address
The first step for any applicant to obtain a Section 8 voucher in his or her area of residence is to verify that he or she lives in an eligible location. To do so, go to HUD’s website and input your address in its search engine, which provides a list of potential properties.
Who can own your unit with a voucher
In general, no one can own your unit with a voucher. You and your family can live in it, but only you can be named on the lease. If someone else who does not live in your unit or another family member wants to own it or co-own it, that person must apply for their own housing voucher. For example, if your mom lives with you and she has her own unit in your building, she will need her own rental assistance voucher so she can find an apartment of her own. She’ll also need to fill out an RAP if she plans to rent an apartment without you living there. This helps protect both of you from eviction.