
Section 8 Rental Housing Assistance is a program that makes market rate rental housing affordable for low income families. Program participants pay a minimum of 30% of their monthly adjusted income for rent and utilities. And getting help is easier than you might think.
Step 1: Apply Take a look at the enclosed guide entitled, “Do I Qualify For Housing Assistance?” If you meet the requirements, your first step is to fill out an Application form and Tennessen Notice. We accept applications Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Please bring all pages of the Application and Tennessen Notice. An appointment is not required. After the application materials are reviewed, you will be contacted by a housing representative who will verify your information. Upon approval, you will then be issued a Housing Choice Voucher.
Step 2: Search Because Section 8 is private market assistance, it is your job to find suitable rental housing that is decent, safe and sanitary. After you have found a unit that meets these standards, make sure the landlord agrees to lease to your family under the Section 8 program. An HRA inspector will then make sure the unit meets all standards. Upon approval, the landlord and the HRA will enter an agreement through which your monthly rent is supplemented by the HRA. You will be responsible for the difference between the total rent and the HRA payment (normally 30% of your adjusted income).
Step 3: Move After all the paperwork and the unit inspection are completed, your rental assistance can begin. Congratulations! Move in and enjoy your new home. Typically, Section 8 agreements are signed for a 12 month period and can be renewed.
Sounds simple enough, doesn’t it? If you qualify for Section 8 assistance, our goal is to make the entire process as easy as possible. We want to see you succeed, because we think that great things can happen when basic housing needs are adequately met. Our dedicated staff will answer any questions you have and will help you through every step of the process.
So, are you ready to get started? It all begins with one phone call.
218-529-6300
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