A Section 8 waiting list exists because the demand for Section 8 rental assistance often exceeds the limited resources available to HUD and the local housing agencies, long waiting periods are common. In fact, a Wisconsin housing authority may close its Section 8 waiting list when it has more families on the list than can be assisted in the near future. Each PHA has the discretion to establish local preferences to reflect the housing needs and priorities of its particular community. It is always free to apply for Section 8.
Preferences establish the order of applicants on the waiting list. Applicants will be positioned on the waiting list based upon the number of preference points for which they are qualified, date and time of application. Applicants who qualify for the highest number of preference points will be position ahead of those who qualify for fewer or no preference points on the Section 8 waiting list. An admissions preference does not guarantee admission. Every applicant must still meet SHA admissions screening criteria before being offered a Housing Choice Voucher or a Public Housing Unit. Preferences will be granted to applicants on the waiting list who are otherwise qualified and/or who, at the time of application processing, are verified to meet the definitions of the preference described below. Preferences will not have the purpose or effect of delaying or otherwise denying admission to the program based on race, color, ethnic origin, gender, religion, disability, or age of any member of an applicant family.
The housing choice voucher program places the choice of housing in the hands of the individual family. A very low-income family is selected by the PHA to participate is encouraged to consider several housing choices to secure the best housing for the family needs. A housing voucher holder is advised of the unit size for which it is eligible based on family size and composition.
|
|