This article outlines the key differences between these two widely utilized housing programs to aid you in your quest for assistance. 

The fundamental distinction lies in the fact that while Section 8 permits you to reside in private units of your choosing, public housing consists of government-funded residences.

Additionally, your Section 8 subsidy is transferable to a new location, whereas the subsidy tied to public housing is linked to the specific unit, meaning you forfeit it upon departure.

Who Can Apply for Public Housing?

Public housing primarily benefits the elderly and individuals with disabilities. Housing units may fall under either state or federal oversight.

Both types require agencies to consider various factors including age or disability, household size and status, income, and immigration status.

For federal housing, the head of the household or their spouse is generally required to be at least 62 years old. In state housing, at least one member must be 60 years of age or older.

If you or someone in your household is disabled, you’ll need to provide documentation to substantiate this.

Public housing eligibility also significantly considers household size, unlike Section 8 programs.

Families may be ineligible for public housing if suitable units are unavailable for their size.

For public housing geared toward the elderly or disabled, individuals can still apply for state housing even if no one in the household possesses legal immigration status.

Conversely, federal housing mandates that at least one family member must be a citizen or have legal immigration status.

What is the Length of the Public Housing Waiting List?

The waiting list for public housing differs based on location, demand, and available units. In some regions, the wait can extend for several years, while in others, the process may be quicker.

• Large urban centers – Wait times can exceed 5 years due to heightened demand.
• Smaller cities and rural communities – Wait periods might range from 6 months to 2 years.
• Priority applicants – Seniors, disabled individuals, and homeless families may experience expedited placements.

To check public housing availability and waitlist status:

1. Visit your local PHA’s website or HUD’s Public Housing Agency Directory.
2. Submit applications to several PHAs across different locales to enhance your prospects.
3. Explore additional affordable housing programs like the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC).

Applying to multiple housing agencies can significantly raise your chances of securing affordable housing more quickly.

How to Obtain a Public Housing Application 

Begin by reaching out to your local Housing Agency or HUD field office. Select your area and locate the nearest office. Make a note of the contact details for your local HUD and Housing Agency. You can call, mail, or email them for further information. Many agencies now offer online applications via their websites. A quick online search using your housing agency’s name should help you find this information. 

You can apply for public housing through your local Housing Agency, which generally provides these application methods:

1. In Person: Due to COVID and social distancing protocols, your Housing Agency’s office may have specific guidelines affecting in-person applications. 
2. Online Application: Your local housing agency may allow online submissions. Ensure you provide accessible email addresses since you will need to verify your email, and updates regarding your application will likely be sent via this medium. 
3. By Mail: You generally have the option to send your application to your local Housing Agency via postal service. 

How is Rent Determined for Public Housing?

The premise of subsidized housing is to make standard housing accessible for low-income individuals. Rent in public housing is calculated based on your income.

Your rental percentage will depend on whether you’re in state or federal housing. Consult your local housing agency for clarity on the distinction.

For state public housing, elderly or disabled residents typically pay 30% of their net income, or 25% if they cover utilities.

Families in this category generally pay 32% of their net income if utilities are not included, 30% if they pay some utilities, and 27% if all utilities are covered.

For federal public housing, residents pay either 30% of their adjusted income or 10% of their annual income, choosing whichever figure is higher.

Most tenants pay around 30% of their adjusted income, with utility costs deducted as applicable.

Public Housing Background Checks

Public housing agencies conduct background checks, including assessments of previous landlord references, credit histories, and criminal records. Agencies possess the authority to deny housing to applicants based on their criminal history.

Individual housing agencies may enforce stricter criteria.

Background checks encompass all household members aged 16 and older. If children are present without their biological parents, some agencies may also check the biological parents’ records.

Your

Your application may be turned down if any individuals involved do not meet the established criteria.

If you have a lifetime sex offense conviction or charges related to methamphetamine production in any federal housing setting, you will face a permanent disqualification from public housing.

Your application could also be refused if you or someone in your household has a pattern of drug or alcohol abuse.

The only way to gain consideration with a criminal history is to demonstrate some mitigating circumstances. It falls upon you to establish extenuating factors by providing documentation that indicates you have moved on from your past.

Can You Get Public Housing with an Eviction?

The ability to secure public housing with an eviction record can vary depending on the housing agency. Some agencies may reject your application outright, while others might take certain conditions into account.

If you were evicted due to unpaid debts, you would need to clear that obligation to regain eligibility. In such instances, it’s wise to reach out to your local Housing Agency for detailed information.

Conversely, if the eviction was related to drug offenses, you typically won’t be eligible for public housing for the duration specified by the housing agency.

While public housing and Section 8 share many similarities, they also differ in key areas such as rent calculations and eligibility requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Improve Your Chances of Getting Approved for Public Housing

Securing approval for public housing can be a competitive process, but you can boost your chances by:

1. Applying to multiple PHAs – Some PHAs permit applications from outside the area.
2. Checking for priority status – You might be eligible for priority placement if you are:
   • Elderly (62+)
   • Disabled or chronically ill
   • A homeless individual or family
   • A veteran or on active military duty
3. Providing complete and accurate documentation – Incomplete paperwork can lead to delays in your application.
4. Following up regularly – Many applicants miss out on housing offers due to outdated contact details.

For real-time updates on waitlists, visit Affordable Housing Heroes.