How to Apply for a Subsidized Apartment

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How to Apply for a Subsidized Apartment

Staff Writer · Jul 6, 2010

Generally, you’re a candidate for a subsidized apartment if your income is within the income limits designated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Therefore, you’ll need to contact your local HUD office for the current income requirements.

Contact your Local Housing Authority Office or HUD Office

To begin the process, as stated, you’ll need to contact your local HUD office and find out if you’re qualified to receive subsidized housing. If you live alone, you’re not typically qualified unless you meet HUD’s income requirements or are elderly (62 years or older), disabled or handicapped. If you determine you are eligible, you’ll need to make application for a Section 8 certificate, which is the voucher used to subsidize your rent.

Apply at Your Local Public Housing Authority (PHA)

You can apply for subsidized housing at your local public housing authority or PHA. The application must be in writing and you’ll be assessed no application fee. Be prepared to provide the names of all the people who will be living in the rental unit as well as their sex and date of birth; your present address; the names, phone numbers and addresses of your current and previous landlords; your anticipated income for the coming year; the name and address of your employer; and bank account information.

Gather the Required Documentation

While filling out an application for subsidized housing or the Section 8 Certificate, you’ll also need to supply and attach certain documentation with your application. Therefore, you will need your birth certificate, tax returns and current pay stubs from your employer. You may also have to provide a security deposit for the rental community where you wish to live.

Playing the Waiting Game: Patience Is a Virtue

Once you’ve filled out your application as it relates to your individual situation, you’ll wait several weeks before being notified whether your application has been accepted or not. If it isn’t accepted, make sure you obtain the exact reason for the refusal. If you feel you’ve been unfairly treated in this regard or you disagree with the reason, you have a right to a grievance hearing. The steps you need to take in order to obtain a hearing are normally included on the notification you receive. On the other hand, if your application is accepted for subsidized housing, then you still may be placed on a waiting list if apartments are in short supply or none are available in the community where you applied.

Follow up by Making Periodic Calls to the Community Where You’ve Made Application

If you are found to be eligible and are put on a waiting list, then you’ll need to follow up periodically and let the apartment manager know where you want to live that you’re still interested in residing there. Make a call about every four months so she is aware of your desire to still live in her apartment community. Many times, if you are placed on a waiting list, it can take as long as two years before you’re able to secure this kind of apartment.

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