Finding affordable housing has been a struggle for so many people over the years and this year with COVID-19, some renters found it more difficult finding homes or even keeping theirs. Since many people did loser their job, many found it difficult keeping up with the rent.
While the new Biden administration will extend eviction protections with a new coronavirus plan, this would just provide an extension and not a long-term answer for those renters that can’t afford higher rents.
Because of the affordability issues, many renters have looked to Section 8 for assistance.
What is Section 8?
The Housing Choice Vouchers program is a federal program that provides financial support to low-income families, seniors and those with disabilities. The program is administered by local public housing agencies (PHAs) and recipients can use the funds to subsidize their rent in private housing.
This program allows participants to use their voucher to pay for part of their rent in a home and neighborhood they choose (as long as the landlord accepts Section 8).
How Can I Apply for Section 8?
Because Section 8 is administered by local public housing agencies, the exact requirements and application process vary. Check with your local authorities, or you can even contact us for assistance.
How Can I Use My Section 8 Voucher?
The voucher subsidy will pay your landlord directly once you’re in approved housing; however, you will have to be pay the difference between your voucher and the monthly rent amount. The nice part about Section 8 is if you move, you don’t lose your benefits, you just have to find another landlord who accepts Section 8. The only thing to keep in mind is that you will be reevaluated yearly to make sure you still require the support and they will also inspect every Section 8 home yearly to ensure they meet minimum health and safety standards.
Drawbacks to Section 8.
The main downside is that availability is extremely limited. It’s estimated that one in five families that are eligible for a voucher are able to obtain one meaning there’s not enough to go around. Sometimes you can be on a waiting list for decades in some areas and some waiting lists may be closed to new applicants.
The other downside to Section 8 is that not all landlords accept them. Since each Section 8 property has to be inspected yearly, some landlords just don’t go through the process to accept Section 8.
The Bottom Line on Section 8:
While this is a great program for low-income families, the problem is there isn’t enough money to go around for everyone in need. It’s a shame that this is the major problem for such a great program.
If you are interested in applying for one, contact your local housing authority or send us a message to help you. Also, if you are a landlord in the Greater Reading area or anywhere in Berks County and are thinking about accepting Section 8, give us a call. We would be happy to help you as best we can!
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