Section 8

Section 8, also known as the Housing Choice Voucher Program, provides federal funding for subsidies for eligible low-income families to rent decent, safe, and affordable housing in a neighborhood of their choice. Families pay a reasonable share of their income toward rent and the subsidy, paid by HPD directly to the landlord, makes up the difference, within specified limits. The unit must also meet federal Housing Quality Standards and will be inspected prior to move in and once annually.

HPD provides vouchers to families in buildings developed or renovated under certain HPD programs, and to homeless individuals referred by Department of Homeless Services and Human Resources Administration providers. Applications must be submitted through designated intermediaries from within HPD, management staff from various housing providers, or staff from other City agencies. Applications are not accepted by the general public.

The New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) and New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) also operate Section 8 programs in New York City. NYCHA and HCR are no longer accepting new Section 8 applications. You may consult their websites for more information.