How to Apply for a Section 8 Voucher in Georgia

The Housing Choice Voucher program, often called Section 8, helps lower-income households pay rent in privately owned housing. In Georgia, vouchers are administered by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs in many counties and by local public housing authorities in larger cities.

Income limits

Eligibility depends on household income compared with the area median income (AMI) for your county. In general, household income must be at or below 50 percent of AMI. Most new vouchers go to households at or below 30 percent of AMI. Limits are updated every year.

What counts as income

Agencies look at the gross income of every adult in the household, including wages, benefits, child support and pensions. Certain expenses, like medical costs for elderly or disabled members and child care, can be deducted.

Documents to gather

• Photo ID for adults
• Birth certificates and Social Security cards for every household member
• Proof of income, such as pay stubs or benefit letters
• Recent bank statements and asset information
• Records of child care or medical expenses

The waitlist

Demand is far higher than the number of vouchers. Waitlists open only occasionally, sometimes for a few days. Applicants may be selected by date of application or by lottery. Some agencies give preference to local residents, veterans, elderly or disabled applicants.

After you are selected

You will attend an interview, provide documents and receive a voucher. You then have a limited time to find a unit whose owner accepts vouchers and that passes inspection. You generally pay about 30 percent of your adjusted income toward rent.

Tips

Sign up for alerts from the housing authorities near you, keep your contact information current and respond to every letter quickly so you do not lose your place.