Do you need affordable housing? Section 8 housing for seniors may be the answer! This type of subsidized housing is designed specifically for older adults, and there are many benefits to living in Section 8 apartments. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about Section 8 senior housing. We will cover how to find Section 8 apartments, how to qualify for them, and what you should know before moving in. Keep reading to learn more!
What is Section 8 Housing?
Section 8 or also called HUD Housing is a government program designed to provide housing assistance for low-income families, individuals, and seniors. The U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) manages the Section 8 program which provides rental assistance to qualifying households by directly paying a portion of their rent each month.
HUD provides vouchers to those who qualify, which they can use to secure an apartment or house. The voucher amounts are determined by the tenant’s income and family size and are paid directly to the landlord of their approved Section 8 housing unit each month.
Is Section 8 the Same as Public Housing?
The primary distinction between Section 8 and public housing lies with ownership and management. While the Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) manages both programs, it is private landlords who own all properties accepting Section 8 vouchers in contrast to government-owned public housing properties.
How Do You Qualify for Senior Citizen Section 8 Housing Options?
Per HUD.gov –
Legally, 75% of vouchers must be distributed to applicants whose incomes don’t go beyond 30% of the median income. Generally speaking, a family’s revenue should not exceed 50% of the area’s median income in which they live in. HUD regularly publishes and updates Median Income levels according to each location – families can contact their local Public Housing Agency (PHA) office for specific information regarding their town/city as well as household size.
In the course of their review, the PHA will request information on your family’s income level and assets as well as its structure. To ascertain accuracy in these records, they may reach out to nearby organizations such as employers or banks for authentication purposes; this data is crucial when calculating eligibility and setting housing assistance payments.
After the PHA assesses that your family qualifies, they will add you to a waiting list – unless there is an opportunity for immediate assistance. Once it’s your turn on the waitlist, the PHA will contact you and provide you with a housing voucher.
How Do I Apply for Section 8 Vouchers?
If you are hoping to secure the Housing Choice Voucher Program, one of your first steps should be connecting with a local PHA. To help make this process easier, the U.S Department of Housing and Urban Development’s website offers an interactive map that can point you in the right direction.
The program is highly competitive, so you may find yourself on a waiting list. Remember to speak with your local PHA (Public Housing Agency) to determine if they give preference for certain people or families in need of help, such as very low income senior citizens.
How Can You Find Senior Section 8 Housing Options?
Finding Section 8 housing for seniors is easier than ever with the advances in technology. The best way to find an affordable place is to start by searching online for listings. There are several websites that list HUD approved properties as well as private landlords who accept Section 8 vouchers.
- Voice of America
- AffordableHousing.com
- RentalAds.com
You can also contact your local public housing authority to find out more information about Section 8 and other housing programs in your area. Many states also have other affordable senior living options available, so be sure to do some research to see what’s available.
What Should You Know Before Moving Into Senior Citizen Section 8 Housing
When beginning your search for units in your area that offer low income housing for Section 8, consider the following:
- How far away are grocery stores, pharmacies, and your doctor? Is there public busing close to the place?
- If you require in-home care, how far will your caregiver need to travel
- Does the bathroom have grab bars or other support devices around the home for elderly individuals?
- Can you afford the unit even with the subsidy? If it is beyond your budget look elsewhere.
- How safe are the area and nearby communities? Is there a higher percentage of senior citizens for you to make friends with?
- Lastly, are you fully capable to live independently? If not, you may wish to consider looking for a low cost assisted living facility.
- Keep these factors in mind as you search for a suitable place to live with Section 8 vouchers. Remember that finding an affordable home for seniors is possible.
Additional Local Housing Programs for Seniors
In addition to the HUD voucher program, seniors in need of Section 8 housing may also look into other local resources. Many states and cities offer rental subsidies, tax abatements, or Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly programs to help seniors find suitable housing.
Section 202 Housing
Section 202 Housing is a key form of low-income senior housing. These communities provide supportive services that help elderly tenants live independently and remain in their homes as long as possible.
To qualify you must meet the HUD income requirements and have at least 1 family member 62 years old or older.
Elderly Persons Support Websites
There are websites dedicated to providing support for seniors to find housing complexes and retirement homes that meet their income levels. These can also help you apply for additional government subsidies and assist in the application process.
- Senioridy.com – provides a broad range of home and healthcare options
- HumanGood.Org – A regional provider of low income housing for seniors
- National Chruch Residences – Offers housing, adult day care, and other support services through the US
Even More Support for Very Low Income Families and Senior Citizens
Once you have qualified for Section 8/ HUD Housing, you automatically qualify for additional government programs to help ease the financial burden.
These programs are called The Lifeline Program and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). Lifeline and ACP were set up to help eligible residents get free or low-cost phone and data service through special wireless providers in the US.
EASY Wireless offers FREE Talk Text and Data and in some areas even a FREE Smartphone hen you qualify for Lifeline and/or ACP. It takes only a few minutes to sign up and see if you qualify for this US Government supported service.
Learn more at EASY Wireless.
Let Go of The Search for Affordable Housing Burden
Over the past few years as the population of seniors has grown the need for affordable housing has increased significantly. Section 8 and other housing programs are here to help find a suitable home for seniors who need assistance finding low-cost housing.
Remember that with the right resources and support, you can make sure your senior years will be comfortable and happy. With Section 8 and other government-supported housing options at your disposal, you don’t have to worry about carrying the burden of searching for affordable housing alone.
