About Section 8
►What is Section 8?
Section 8 is a federally funded Housing Assistance Program which offers rental assistance (subsidy) for Elderly, Disabled and Single Families who qualify under the very low-income guidelines.
The Housing Authority administers this program under the regulations and guidelines of the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The Housing Authority currently offers the Housing Choice Voucher Program which has been successful because it provides the participant with the opportunity to choose the type of rental unit and neighborhood that will meet their interests and needs.
Families may also take their housing assistance with them when they move which enables participants to pursue employment and educational opportunities, to be reunited with their friends and family, and to live in a better climate.
The 1998 Quality Housing and Work Responsibility Act (QHWRA) mandated that all Section 8 certificates and vouchers be converted to Housing Choice Vouchers, effective October 1, 1999.
HACC admits families whose income does not exceed the very low income (30% of area median income based on family’s size) as established by HUD.
The recipient of the Housing Choice Voucher has up to two months to find a rental unit within the HAJC operational boundaries for the size unit for which he / she is eligible. The owner/manager of the rental unit then contacts HACC and is briefed about the program to determine if he or she wishes to participate.
The HACC’s representative will then physically inspect the unit in question to ensure that it meets the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development?s (HUD’s) Housing Quality Standards (HQS). After the unit is accepted by HACC, the rent is negotiated with the owner, and the rent must be within the Payment Standard published by the federal government for this area. The leases are executed for a minimum of six months, and the lease is between the owner/manager and the tenant. The tenant will then pay directly to the owner/manager their portion of the rent, which must not exceed 40% of their adjusted gross monthly income.
Under a Housing Assistance Payment Contract (HAP), which is between the HAJC and the owner/manager, a check is issued by HACC on the first of each month for the balance of the contract rent owed.
►How do I apply?
Interested participants must complete a Section 8 application. 100% completion of the application is necessary in order to determine eligibility. Currently the estimated waiting period is approximately 3-5 years after submitting a completed application. You can pick up an application at the Housing Office in the county that you would like to live.
For more information about Section 8 and eligibility, contact:
360) 379-2565
Where is the Section 8 Housing office located?
►Housing Authority of Clallam County – Serving Jefferson County
5210 Kuhn St / PO Box 2109
Port Townsend, WA 98368
360-379-2565 360-379-2561 FAX
