Is there a waiting list for vouchers?
Yes, due to high demand, many Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) have waiting lists for Housing Choice Vouchers. Wait times can vary widely.
What Is A Pre-Application?
A pre-application is the first step in the process of applying for the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher rental assistance program. The pre-application will first be reviewed by the Housing Authority to determine initial eligibility for the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher rental assistance program. If determined eligible, you will be added to the waiting list, if not eligible, your application will be denied.
How much will my voucher cover?
The voucher amount is based on various factors, including your income, family size, and local rental market conditions. You’ll typically pay around 30% of your income towards rent, and the voucher will cover the rest up to a certain limit.
Can I transfer my voucher to another family member?
In some cases, vouchers can be transferred to eligible family members, but this depends on the Public Housing Authority’s policies and regulations.
What is considered fraud?
Don’t risk your chances for federally assisted housing by providing false, incomplete, or inaccurate information on your application and recertification forms. There is certain information you must provide when applying for assisted housing. There are penalties that apply if you knowingly omit information or give false information.
The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) places a high priority on preventing fraud. If your application or recertification forms contain false or incomplete information, you may be:
- Evicted from your apartment or house
- Required to repay all overpaid rental assistance you received
- Fined up to $10,000
- Imprisoned for up to 5 years; and/or
- Prohibited from receiving future assistance
You should be aware of the following fraud schemes:
- Do not pay any money to file an application
- Do not pay any money to move up on the waiting list
- Do not pay for anything not covered by your lease
- Get a receipt for any money you pay
- Get a written explanation if you are required to pay any money other than rent (such as maintenance charges)
Who is eligible for a Housing Choice Voucher/Section 8 rental assistance program?
Eligibility is based on income, generally households with incomes below a certain threshold, household size, and citizenship status. Families that include both citizens and ineligible non-citizens can still apply for Section 8, but assistance will be based on the number of eligible individuals in the household.
How Does The Waitlist Lottery Work?
Pre-applications are selected for placement on the waiting list by a random computer-generated selection after sorting for preferences. Pre-applications are given preference in accordance with the Administrative Plan.
Can I move with my voucher?
Yes, you can move with your voucher, but you’ll need to follow the proper procedures. Notify your current Public Housing Authority, find a new rental unit that meets the program requirements, and go through the necessary paperwork.
What happens if my income changes while I have a voucher?
You are required to report any changes in income or family composition to your Public Housing Authority. They will recalculate your voucher amount based on the new information.
How long can I stay on the program?
There’s no strict time limit for how long you can receive assistance, as long as you continue to meet the program’s eligibility criteria.
Do I have to be a city resident to apply?
No. You do not have to be a city resident to apply; however, Santa Paula Housing Authority does give preference to those on the waiting list who currently live, work, or are receiving homeless services in Santa Paula.
I’m homeless; can you help me?
Unfortunately, Santa Paula Housing Authority does not have emergency housing. We can refer you to agencies in town that provide emergency shelter and assistance.
What is recertification?
You must provide updated information at least once a year. Some programs require that you report any changes of income or family/household composition immediately. Be sure to ask when you must recertify. You must report on recertification forms:
*All income changes, such as pay increases or benefits, changes of job, loss of job, loss of benefits, etc., for all adult family/household members
*Any family/household member who has moved in or out
*All assets that you or your family/household members own and any asset that was sold in the last 2 years for less than its full value