Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the Section 8 Rental Assistance Program? The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program is a  federal rental assistance program administered through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and local agency representatives.

What is the purpose of the program? To make decent, safe and sanitary rental housing more affordable to low-income families, elderly and handicapped/disabled individuals.

Who is eligible to participate? Applicants must meet HUD eligibility requirements, and have incomes that do not exceed HUD-established area income limits. (Contact your local representative.) Potentially eligible applicants will be placed on a waiting list until a Housing Choice Voucher can be issued.

What happens when I am issued a Housing Choice Voucher?  A Voucher holder will look for a suitable dwelling unit to rent. He/She is not obligated to move and may remain in his/her current dwelling if the unit is acceptable under the program and the landlord will agree to participate.

To be acceptable under the program, a unit must meet HUD Housing Quality Standards and be available for rent within the limits of the Voucher program.  Specific information on Housing Quality Standards can be obtained from the Housing Authority.

What are the advantages for owners/landlords?   Owners/landlords who participate in the Section 8 existing housing program are able to fill vacancies quickly; they may implement a one-year lease; housing assistance payments are made directly to the landlord; the owner/landlord retains his/her right to screen and choose the tenant.  The landlord does not give up his landlord rights with an assisted family.

How much rent will I pay on the Housing Choice Voucher Program?   Under the HCVoucher Program, the Payment Standard (between 90 and 110% of the Fair Market Rent) is the amount used to calculate the tenant's housing assistance. If the tenant chooses a unit that rents for less than the Payment Standard, the tenant generally pays the difference, but never less than 30% of their adjusted income for rent and utilities. If the tenant chooses a unit that rents for more than the Payment Standard, the tenant generally pays more than 30% of their adjusted income for rent and utilities.  To start off, a family is limited to paying no more than 40% of their adjusted income for rent and utilities.

What is the Fair Market Rent?  The Fair Market Rent (FMR) is established by HUD, at least annually for the area. The FMR is an estimate of the total housing cost, including the rent, all primary utilities and appliances.

To submit an online application for rent assistance through the Longview Housing Authority, click on this link or  contact your local Section 8 Representative:

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