The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program is a lifesaver for millions of low-income families in America, under the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) as a safety net between the escalating cost of rent and stagnant wages. But new research shows nearly half of all families receiving a Section 8 voucher cannot utilize the benefit before it expires. So, we are here to find out why this happens and how you can make sure it doesn't happen to you!

Why Do So Many Voucher Holders Lose Their Assistance?

The idea behind the Housing Choice Voucher program is simple—poor families get a voucher that subsidizes their rent and enables them to look for a safe, clean, and reasonably priced home. But what if the clock runs out and housing can't be found? For example, USA Today alleges several causes for the surge in voucher holders who can't find housing:

1. Small supply of housing: The affordable housing crisis is nationwide and getting worse. There are simply too few units available meeting HUD's criteria willing to accept Section 8 vouchers.
2. Discrimination by Landlords: Even though there are source-of-income discrimination laws in a handful of states, many landlords either directly or indirectly do not take Section 8 tenants. This creates another dimension of challenge for voucher holders in their quest to secure a home.
3. Bureaucratic Delays: Navigating multiple housing authorities and coordinating with landlords take time. Unfortunately, the window for using a voucher is very small; typically between 60 and 120 days, depending on the location. By the time a voucher holder finds an appropriate unit, that deadline may have expired.

Three Key Strategies to Ensure You Can Use Your Section 8 Voucher

Given the struggles mentioned above, it's important to be looking for housing before you even receive the voucher, so that you’re prepared! Here are three ways to increase your odds of finding a home.

1. Use Section8Search.org to Increase Your Odds

A great way to maximize your chances of finding a home is to use a website dedicated to helping you, like Section8Search.org. This resource aids in looking through a number of PHAs (Public Housing Agencies) and housing programs that provide housing units where it's possible to use Section 8 vouchers.

How Section8Search.org Can Help You:

• Connect to More than One PHA: Most folks don't know they can apply to more than one housing agency in different jurisdictions. Section8Search.org connects you to the PHAs that are closest to you; those may have shorter wait times or more listings that will work for you.
• Save and Track Your Favorite Properties: Section8Search.org allows you to save listings and note available properties for easier and quicker application once your voucher is ready. Being able to hold a list of pre-vetted properties will help you be quick on the draw when that voucher lands in your hands.
• Custom Filters: Listing types, number of bedrooms, and unit type are the criteria the portal uses for filtering, so if you need to filter housing as per one of these four types—for family, senior, homeless, or disability category—Section8Search.org can help make your search easier.

Timing is critical in a hot housing market. Trim down the time it takes to find possible properties by using services like Section8Search.org, and this will increase your chances of getting into a home before your voucher expires.

2. Get a Credit Check Done in Advance for Landlords

Many Section 8 landlords do typically check the credit of prospective tenants. While a voucher may pay for your rent, a landlord wants to know you will not only pay your portion but also keep up the property. Bringing your credit report with you can take away the chance of a delay.

Advantages of Performing a Credit Check Ahead of Time:

• Speed Up the Application Process: Bring your credit report with you to give prospective landlords, reducing back-and-forth discussions that eat into the short period of time your voucher offers.
• Resolve Issues in Advance: Tackling some of the issues or errors in your credit report in advance will increase the chances of a landlord approving your application.
• Generate Trust from Landlords: A prepared credit report gives an indication to the landlord that you are organized and responsible, which may actually make an impression.

If you’re waiting for Section 8 housing, you need to know your credit score. Make sure to check your credit score here to make sure you’re prepared for your applications!

Get A FREE Credit Check!

3. Understand What Section 8 Landlords Seek in an Application

It's not just a matter of finding a unit—finding the landlord willing to take your application is key. To stand out from other applicants, understand what landlords are looking for in a Section 8 tenant.

Key Factors Landlords Consider:

• Timely Communication: It is highly appreciated by landlords if you respond quickly and clearly to them, and most importantly, submit required additional papers or clarify points promptly.
• Rental History: A strong rental history, no evictions, and few major conflicts. If you have some past issues, be prepared to offer references or supply documentation showing better behavior since then.
• Tenure Stability and Long-Term Occupancy: Landlords are interested in tenants who appear likely to stay for a longer period of time to minimize turnovers and vacancies. Telling them of your intention to maintain a stable, long-term lease can aid your cause.

For better insights about what landlords look at, read our interview with this Section 8 landlord.

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FAQs

1. How can I increase my chances of finding a rental that accepts Section 8 vouchers?

For the best chances, search through all Public Housing Authorities and housing programs in your area with tools like Section8Search.org. This will enable you to filter properties by those that meet your approval type and save your favorite listings so that you are ready when your voucher is issued.

2. How long can you use a Section 8 voucher?

Deadlines for the utilization of a Section 8 voucher vary from place to place, with typical limits being around 60 to 120 days. Within this period, recipients need to search for the rental house, have it inspected, and go through the remaining leasing procedures. Some extensions are granted under certain circumstances, but these are not guaranteed.

3. How can I avoid losing my Section 8 voucher because of delays?

Apply to as many PHAs as possible and have a list of potential properties before you apply. It's structured with tools to search, such as Section8Search.org, and to instantly contact the landlords. Preparing your credit report, references, and application details will expedite the process and reduce the chances of your voucher expiring before use.

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Final Thoughts: Don't Waste Your Voucher!

It’s no wonder that, with all these obstacles in place, close to half of Section 8 voucher holders can’t use their assistance in time. Being proactive about credit checks and understanding exactly what landlords want can be improved by using tools such as Section8Search.org in order to increase the odds of securing a home.

Remember, act quickly and stay on top of finding your housing! Your voucher is a valuable resource—don't let it go to waste because of avoidable delays. Stay in the know, stay on top of things, and make sure that you prepare well for whatever comes.