The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program is one of the most important tools in the U.S. for supporting low-income families, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities in securing affordable housing. Funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and managed by local Public Housing Agencies (PHAs), the program allows eligible participants to rent housing in the private market, with part of their rent covered by a federal subsidy.
While the benefits of the program are widely known, navigating the process—from applying to finding out if you’ve been approved—can be confusing. If you’ve already submitted your application, you’re likely wondering how and when you’ll know whether you’ve been selected. This article offers a clear, step-by-step explanation on how to determine your approval status and understand what it means to be selected.
Understanding the Basics
Before diving into how to check your approval, it’s essential to clarify how the Section 8 process works. First, you must apply through a PHA when their waitlist is open. These openings can happen infrequently, depending on the demand in your area. Once you’ve submitted your application, your name is either entered into a lottery system or placed on a ranked waiting list based on factors like income, household size, housing need, or special conditions such as being homeless or a veteran.
It’s important to note that being on the waiting list doesn’t guarantee you’ll be approved. It only means your application has been accepted and may be reviewed if space and funding become available.
How to Know If You’ve Been Selected
After applying, your main goal is to track the status of your application. Each PHA operates independently, so the process may vary from one location to another. However, the steps below can guide you no matter where you applied.
1. Use Online Application Portals
Many housing authorities provide web-based tools to manage applications. If you applied online, you likely created an account that you can log into for updates.
Some of the most commonly used platforms include:
- WaitlistCheck.com: Many PHAs use this platform to notify applicants of their status. You’ll need your birth year and confirmation number.
- AssistanceConnect: Used to track progress on both public housing and Section 8 applications.
- MyHousing.com: This platform allows you to update personal information, review your application, and receive notifications.
Once logged in, your application will be assigned a status such as:
- Application received
- Waitlisted
- Under review
- Selected
- Denied
These statuses will give you a clearer idea of where you stand in the process.
2. Contact the PHA Directly
If you didn’t apply online or can’t access the portal, the most reliable method is to contact your local housing authority by phone or email. You can locate contact information for all PHAs in the U.S. using HUD’s official directory: http://www.hud.gov/contactus/public-housing-contacts
When reaching out, be prepared to provide identifying details, such as:
- Your full legal name
- Your Social Security number
- The application or reference number (if available)
- Your date of birth
Staff at the housing authority can confirm whether your application is still active, if you’ve been selected for further processing, or if a decision has been made.
3. Check Your Mail Regularly
Most PHAs still send updates via U.S. Mail, especially when notifying applicants that they have been selected for an interview or that a voucher is available. It’s crucial to ensure your mailing address is always current in the system. A missed letter could mean missing your chance at receiving a voucher.
What Selection Means (And What It Doesn’t)
Being selected or contacted by your PHA means you’re being considered for a voucher. However, the process does not end there. You’ll typically be required to attend a briefing or interview, during which you’ll be asked to submit detailed documents, such as:
- Proof of income
- Identification for all household members
- Social Security cards
- Proof of residency or immigration status
- Documentation of any special needs or conditions
Once all paperwork is verified and approved, you will receive a housing voucher and instructions on how to proceed with your search for an eligible rental property.
What If You’re Still Waiting?
It’s not unusual for applicants to remain on the waiting list for several years, especially in large metropolitan areas where demand exceeds supply. Here are a few ways to stay proactive:
- Keep your contact info updated: Notify your PHA of any changes to your phone number, mailing address, or household size.
- Stay in touch: Some PHAs require you to reaffirm your interest annually. Missing these updates could cause your application to be removed.
- Apply in multiple areas: You’re allowed to be on the waitlists of several PHAs at once. Expanding your options could reduce your wait time.
- Explore alternative programs: Many local housing agencies offer additional assistance such as public housing, utility assistance, or emergency rental help.
Common Application Statuses Explained
| Status | Meaning |
|---|---|
| On Waiting List | You’ve been added and are waiting for further review. |
| Under Review | Your application is being evaluated more closely. |
| Selected | You’ve been chosen for an interview or the next phase. |
| Approved | You’ve completed all steps and will receive a voucher. |
| Ineligible/Denied | You did not meet eligibility requirements or missed a deadline. |
Be Aware of Scams
Unfortunately, scammers take advantage of vulnerable applicants. HUD and PHAs never charge a fee to apply for Section 8, and no one can legally guarantee or sell you a spot on the waiting list. Always verify that you’re communicating through official housing authority channels.
Final Thoughts
If you’re waiting for an answer from the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program, patience and persistence are key. Knowing how to monitor your status through the correct channels helps ensure that you don’t miss out on critical updates.
Always keep your records in order, maintain communication with your local housing authority, and be prepared to act quickly if you’re selected. While the process can be long and frustrating, for many, the result is a stable, affordable place to call home.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with others navigating the Section 8 process and stay informed with accurate, trustworthy resources.