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Federal Housing Choice Voucher Program

A how to guide to help you apply to the Federal Housing Choice Voucher program.

Locate your Public Housing Agency (PHA)

Use the HUD’s PHA Finder to find your local Public Housing Agency (PHA).

Your PHA page will show:

  • Whether the voucher waiting list is open

  • How to apply (online, in person, or by mail)

  • Local eligibility preferences

  • Contact information

You must apply in the jurisdiction where the PHA administers vouchers.

Each PHA maintains its own waiting list. To check availability use:

If the waiting list is closed, you must wait until it opens. There may be options to sign up for text message or email alerts via your local PHA website. If it is open, proceed to the application stage.

Prepare your documents

Every PHA requires documentation for each household member. Common documents include:

  • Government-issued ID

  • Social Security cards or documentation for household members with SSNs

  • Birth certificates for children

  • Proof of income

    • Pay stubs

    • Benefit letters (SSI, SSDI, TANF, unemployment, etc.)

  • Bank statements

  • Proof of residency, if required

  • Immigration documents for non-citizen household members with eligible status

Bring originals or copies as the PHA specifies. If you are missing documents, still apply—many PHAs allow you to submit missing items later.

Submit your application

Depending on your PHA, you may be able to:

  1. Apply online

  2. Apply in person at the housing authority office

  3. Submit a paper application by mail or drop-off

Tips:

  • Submit your application as soon as possible to lock in your place on the waiting list.

  • Keep a copy or screenshot of your confirmation number, if one is provided.

  • Update your contact information immediately if it changes—PHAs remove applicants if they cannot be reached.

Wait for your position on the waiting list

After applying, you may wait:

  • Months

  • Years

  • Sometimes longer

PHAs may:

  • Send update letters

  • Ask you to log into an online portal

  • Require periodic confirmation that you want to remain on the list

If you do not respond to notices, you may be removed from the waiting list.

Some PHAs use a lottery system, meaning everyone who applies during the open period has an equal chance, regardless of when they applied.

After You Apply: What to Expect

If your name reaches the top of the list

The PHA will contact you to begin final eligibility screening, which includes:

  • Verifying all income and household documentation

  • Criminal background checks

  • Reviewing rental history

If approved, you will receive:

1. A Voucher Briefing

A meeting (in person or online) where the PHA explains:

  • How your voucher works

  • Payment standards (maximum rents they can approve)

  • How to find a unit

  • Program rules

  • Your responsibilities and your landlord’s responsibilities

2. Your Voucher

This is the document that allows you to begin searching for housing. It includes:

  • Voucher size (based on household composition)

  • Deadline to find a unit (often 60–120 days, extensions may be possible)

3. Start Looking for Housing

You must find a landlord willing to accept Section 8 vouchers. The unit:

  • Must be within local rent limits

  • Must pass a Housing Quality Standards (HQS) inspection

  • Must be reasonably priced in the local market

4. Lease and Inspection Process

Once you find a unit:

  • The landlord submits a Request for Tenancy Approval (RFTA)

  • The PHA conducts an HQS inspection

  • If approved, you and the landlord sign the lease

  • The PHA signs a Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) contract with the landlord

If you have any additional questions, you can email Mirza support, support@heymirza.com. We are happy to help in any way we can.