Section 8 Housing
The Section 8 Voucher program with PMHA increases affordable housing for low-income households in Portage County. Wait ListHousing Choice Voucher
The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV), or Section 8, is PMHA’s largest housing assistance program. Funded by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Housing Choice Vouchers assist low-income, eligible households with rent and utilities. Participants are free to rent virtually any unit that meets program standards for cost and housing quality.
How Section 8 Housing Works
Participating households receive a voucher and must find a qualifying rental unit owned by a landlord. The housing unit must pass a housing inspection to assure PMHA it is safe and sanitary. This unit must also have reasonable rent for the housing market.
Available Section 8 Units
How to Get a Voucher
It’s important to know that there are more people who need vouchers than there are available. Typically, you are put on a waitlist. If you’d like to pursue getting a voucher, follow these steps:
Submit Your Application
In Portage County, you can apply for the Section 8 Voucher program by applying via our online portal. If you need assistance completing the online application a staff member can assist you. Once your application is approved, you are placed on the waiting list.
Monitor Your Waiting List Status
You can monitor your status through the waiting list portal. When your name reaches the top of the waiting list you will be notified via email of the next steps.
Find Qualified Housing
Once you are issued a voucher, you can search for a housing unit that accepts it and meets all program requirements. The housing unit must pass a Housing Quality Standards (HQS) Inspection to ensure it is safe and sanitary.
How Your Share of Rent Is Determined
The household’s share of the rent is determined by a formula. The housing authority then pays the landlord directly for the difference between the household’s rental share and the market rent.
Learn more about PMHA’s housing options or contact us with any questions, comments, or requests.