Application Instructions for Oregon Section 8
Step 1
The Oregon Housing and Community Services works together with the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to help individuals and families find affordable housing. Whether you are unable to find affordable housing due to disability or being elderly, or you are unable to pay your rent, Oregon Section 8 can help. This housing assistance program helps households overcome low-income limits and lack of safe accommodations. Through Section 8 you can apply for the following services:
- Section 8 low-rent Housing Choice Voucher program
- Project-based Section 8 housing
The Section 8 low-rent Housing Choice Voucher program provides renters with a subsidy to help pay for rent in Oregon. This service allows renters to choose the type of housing, i.e. apartment, duplex, house, etc., where they want to live. Additionally, you can transfer your Housing Choice Voucher benefits to another home if you move to another city in Oregon. You will be responsible for finding your own housing, and the housing landlord must be approved to provide Section 8 services.
With the Section 8 low-rent Housing Choice Voucher you will pay up to 30 percent of your household’s adjusted income. The adjusted income refers to the amount of money remaining in your household after basic utilities and life needs, i.e. food, are covered. You will receive a subsidy that allows you to afford housing in Oregon, but you are required to be a low-income household to qualify.
Project-based Section 8 housing in Oregon is housing that is set aside for low-income households. This housing features a pre-set rate that is determined based on the area’s low-income limits. When you choose this program, you are required to live in the housing available through Section 8. If you move from the housing complex designated to you by Section 8, then you will have to reapply for project-based Section 8 at that complex. Currently, Oregon Section 8 has more than 7,500 subsidized apartments, which are also known as HUD apartments.
When you apply for Oregon Section 8 you will have to choose between the Housing Choice Voucher program and project-based Section 8 housing. Locally, these services are administered by public housing authorities (PHA). Some PHAs offer one Section 8 service, while other PHAs provide both. You will need to contact the PHA in your area to see which services are available. Keep in mind you can apply for both services, but you will have to complete multiple applications. Also, if the PHA in your city has a waitlist, you are encouraged to apply to more than one waitlist to increase your chances of getting selected for Oregon Section 8 services.
Who can Qualify for Section 8?
Anyone who is currently living in Oregon, is a US citizen or permanent resident, and over 18 can apply for Oregon Section 8 services. However, the primary factor in getting approved is your income. The income of your household, which includes the income from all able-bodied adults, must not exceed the low-income limits for Oregon. If you meet the low-income limit, as well as the previously mentioned qualifiers, then you are eligible to apply for Section 8.
To increase your odds of getting selected for Section 8, you will also need to have a clean criminal record and rental history. For your criminal record, the PHA will conduct a criminal background check to verify your history. If you have any drug or sexual offenses or convictions, there is a chance you will be rejected for services. As for your rental history, if you have any negative remarks from previous landlords, or you have a history of failing to pay your rent on time, this can jeopardize your chances of getting Oregon Section 8.
How to Apply
Apply for Oregon Section 8 by contacting your local PHA office. Check out the type of services available at each PHA to determine which office in your area will best serve your housing needs. When you apply for services your name will be placed on a waitlist. Currently in Oregon there are:
- 13 waitlists for the Housing Choice Voucher program that are open or will be open soon
- 11 waitlists open now for the project-based housing program
After you apply to a waitlist, you will need to wait for months, if not years, before your name is selected. This is why you want to apply to more than one waitlist, and for multiple programs.
The application process is extensive and requires substantial documentation. You will need to bring IDs, Social Security cards, and birth certificates for each member of your household. Additionally, you will be required to prove your household income sources, as well as your living expenses. The more details you can prove, the better your chances of receiving assistance. You may also be required to be interviewed by a PHA officer before you are approved for housing.
If you are concerned with the process or have any questions about Oregon Section 8, contact the HUD Portland Field Office.