What Will Disqualify You From Section 8? 2024

If you or someone you know is trying to qualify for housing aid, knowing the answer to the question “What will disqualify you from Section 8?” is crucial. Eligible participants can receive grants under the program to reduce their monthly rent on privately owned dwellings. However, Section 8 has tough eligibility standards that may result in disqualification.

These include but are not limited to a criminal background, indebtedness to a public housing authority, income levels beyond the threshold, and the failure to provide required documentation. They might not meet the requirements, for example, if they have a history of violent crime or are addicted to drugs. Anyone interested in applying for this government housing aid program should familiarize themselves with these criteria for participation.

What Disqualifies You From Section 8 Housing?

HUD Violations

If you have violations of HUD policies on your record, such as past evictions from public housing, it can lead to disqualification. This also includes failing to report changes that may affect your eligibility.

Criminal History

Public housing authorities do background checks on all applicants. Any drug-related or violent criminal convictions may disqualify you. Felonies within the last 5 years are often grounds for denial.

False Information

Providing false information on your public housing application is grounds for denial. This includes lying about income, family size, or past rental history. Always be truthful when applying.

Owing Money

You may be denied if you owe any public housing authority money for past damages or unpaid rent. All debts must be resolved before applying.

Income Too High

Your household income must fall under a certain threshold to qualify. Limits vary by location and family size. Income over the limit will result in disqualification.

Failure to Provide Documentation

You must provide all required documents to verify income, citizenship status, and other eligibility factors. Failure to fully complete the application may disqualify you.

Past Behavior

If you have a history of drug use or violence, even without convictions, it may still disqualify you. Public housing aims to provide safe housing.

Undocumented Immigrants

You must be a US citizen or eligible non-citizen to qualify for public housing. Undocumented immigrants are ineligible.

What Criminal Charges Can Disqualify You From Section 8?

Violent Crimes

Felony convictions for any type of violent crime, such as murder, rape, robbery, aggravated assault, battery, or domestic violence, can disqualify you from Section 8. These types of serious violent crimes generally result in denial if convicted within the last 3-5 years. Section 8 aims to provide safe and stable housing, so recent history of violence is seen as too high risk.

Drug-Related Crimes

Drug offenses like the manufacture, distribution, trafficking, or possession with intent to sell illegal drugs will make you ineligible for Section 8 vouchers. Even simple drug possession charges can potentially disqualify you, especially if you have multiple convictions. Section 8 administrators want to avoid drugs and illegal activity in assisted housing.

Sex Offenses

Any conviction for a sexual offense, such as rape, sexual assault, molestation, or other sex crimes will automatically disqualify you. Registered sex offenders face a lifetime ban from receiving Section 8 housing benefits. These types of crimes raise serious safety concerns for other residents.

Fraud

If you have been convicted of welfare fraud, tax fraud, identity fraud, or other scams, you will likely not receive Section 8. The program aims to help honest low-income families, not those who commit fraud.

Repeat Offenses

A pattern of multiple convictions over your lifetime, even for relatively minor crimes, demonstrates a history of illegal activity. This will often lead to denial of Section 8 vouchers. Ongoing criminal behavior raises red flags.

Active Warrants

Any active arrest warrants for crimes you are currently charged with will halt your Section 8 application. You must clear up all outstanding warrants before becoming eligible for housing vouchers.

Crimes Against Children

As Section 8 provides housing for families with children, any crime committed against children is considered an immediate risk. This includes abuse, neglect, endangerment, pornography, or other offenses involving minors under 18. These serve as grounds for disqualification.

Key Section 8 Application Assistance: Your Indispensable Resource List

HUD Website

The HUD website has all official information on Section 8 eligibility and applications. Read the guidelines carefully before applying.

Local Housing Authority

Contact your local housing authority to ask questions. Get application packets and income limit details from them.

Application Workshops

Many housing authorities hold workshops to help people complete applications. Attend one to ensure you apply correctly.

Case Workers

If you have a social worker or housing case worker, utilize their expertise. They can guide your Section 8 application.

Legal Aid

Consult legal aid about options if you have a criminal record or eviction history. They may help explain past barriers.

Property Managers

Ask property managers which units accept Section 8 vouchers. They can advise if you meet their tenant criteria.

Online Forums

Connect with others who have applied for Section 8. Learn from their experiences in online forums.

What to Do if You Get Denied

If you are denied Section 8 housing due to a past felony conviction, you have several options:

• Request an informal review hearing to present your case to the PHA. Explain mitigating circumstances and rehabilitation. Provide evidence you are not a safety risk.
• Apply to PHAs in other areas if possible. Vouchers are portable after the initial lease-up. Some places have more lenient policies.
• Enroll in programs that help ex-offenders access housing resources. They can guide your application.
• Contact legal aid organizations to understand your rights. They may be able to negotiate with the PHA on your behalf.
• Find transitional housing programs or sober living homes to build rental history. Reapply for Section 8 once you demonstrate stability.
• Appeal the decision by writing a letter to the PHA executive director. Highlight facts they may have overlooked.
• If ultimately denied, ask the PHA to put you on the waiting list for senior or disabled housing, which is less restrictive.

The key is persistence and utilizing available resources. With a felony, getting Section 8 may take longer, but options exist if you don’t give up.

Bottom Line

Applying for Section 8 housing assistance can be a frustrating and complex process. Many factors could disqualify you, especially if you have a criminal record or eviction history. However, resources are available to help you put together the strongest application possible. Be thorough in following all requirements, transparent about your background, and persistent if denied.

With preparation and patience, obtaining Section 8 vouchers is possible even if you face additional barriers. Don’t let past mistakes deter you from seeking the affordable housing help you deserve today. Carefully review the eligibility criteria and use the resources outlined here to put yourself on the best path toward approval.

FAQs

Can I apply for Section 8 if I have a criminal record?

You may be denied if convicted of violent crimes, sex offenses, or drug distribution. Minor offenses like possession may still allow approval. Disclose your record upfront.

Does Section 8 require background checks?

Yes, all adult members of your household will undergo criminal background checks during the application process.

Can I choose my apartment with Section 8?

Yes, you select a privately owned rental unit that meets Section 8 requirements and accept vouchers. The landlord must approve.

Do I have to be a US citizen to get Section 8?

No, but you must be a US citizen or eligible non-citizen with documents like a green card or visa. Undocumented immigrants don’t qualify.

What documents do I need to provide when applying?

All household members will need social security cards, birth certificates, tax returns, pay stubs, bank statements, and photo IDs.

Can I reapply if I get rejected for Section 8?
Yes, you can reapply after 1 year in most cases, but it depends on the reason you were denied before. Fix any issues to improve chances.