Public Housing and Section 8 vouchers provide rent subsidies to low-income households so that rent does not exceed 30 percent of monthly household income.
Who is eligible?
Participation in the Section 8 housing program is available to households with income, adjusted for family size, below 50 percent of the median family income for the area in which the housing is located. This income level varies by county in Florida. Public housing is available to households with incomes below 80 percent of the median family income for the area in which the housing is located. Some public housing developments are reserved for elderly and disabled persons.
What benefits are provided?
Public housing consists of rental apartment developments managed by local public housing authorities. In the Section 8 program, local authorities provide eligible households with vouchers to reduce their monthly rent in rental agreements with participating landlords. In both programs, rent is subsidized so that monthly rent is 30 percent of monthly household income. Public Housing also pays for part of tenants’ utility bills. Both Section 8 and Public Housing adjust rents as income changes.
How do I apply?
You may apply for public housing and the Section 8 housing program through your local public housing authority when waiting lists are open. Often, there are waiting lists for participation in these programs. Selection from waiting lists for public housing is based upon priorities established by local housing authorities, such as helping elderly and disabled persons or helping victims of domestic violence. Additional information is also available on the Internet at www.hud.gov.
