Understand More About the Process for Obtaining Section 8 Housing Assistance

The Housing Choice Voucher program, also known as Section 8, is Portage Metropolitan Housing Authority’s (PMHA) largest housing assistance program. The Voucher program is funded by the federal government through the Department of Housing and Urban Development.  The program increases affordable housing choices for low-income households by allowing families to choose privately-owned rental units. PMHA pays the landlord the difference between 30%-50% of the household’s income and the agencies payment standard (100% of HUD’s Fair Market Rent). The rent must be reasonable upon what comparable units rent for on the open market.

Do You Qualify for Section 8?

PMHA bases eligibility for Section 8 vouchers on several factors, including but not limited to:

• Income
• Citizenship status
• Criminal Background Information

Once your application is submitted a full review of all eligibility criteria will be completed to determine if you are eligible for voucher issuance.

What Are the Steps to Get Section 8 Housing?

If you would like to apply for the Section 8 Voucher program you must submit an application via our online application portal. The link to the application can be found on our website at www.portagehousing.org. If you need assistance you may contact our office. Once your application is approved, you will be placed on the waiting list. Once your name reaches the top of the waiting list you will be notified via email on the next steps in the application process..

It’s important to remember that the waiting list for a Section 8 Voucher is very lengthy as the need for housing assistance is greater than the number of vouchers available.

Submit Your Application

All applications for the Section 8 Voucher program must be submitted via our online portal. If you need assistance completing the online application a staff member can assist you.

Monitor Your Waiting List Status

Once you have submitted your application and you have been placed on the waiting list you can monitor your status through the waiting list portal.

Find Qualified Housing

Once you have been issued a Section 8 voucher you can begin your search for a housing unit that accepts the voucher and meets all program requirements. The housing unit must pass a Housing Quality Standards (HQS) Inspection to ensure it is safe and sanitary. In addition, you must income qualify for the unit and the unit must pass the rent reasonableness test. During the briefing process you will be advised of all requirements and will be given useful tools and advice on how to begin your housing search.

Portage Metropolitan Housing Authority

You can learn more about PMHA’s housing options or contact us if you have questions, comments, or requests.