Finding an open Section 8 waiting list doesn’t need to be difficult or time consuming, and it shouldn’t be. If you and your family need rental assistance, you’re going to want it as soon as possible, especially if you are or may soon become homeless. 

There is an extremely high demand for Section 8 housing assistance, and waiting lists tend to fill up quickly across the country. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t find a PHA that is still accepting Section 8 applications. There are a few ways you can find waiting lists and get aid more quickly, even if you do not meet a priority group for a PHA. 

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More Ways to Find an Open Waitlist for Low Income Housing
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You can find more PHAs in your area by completing an online search. This is especially true if you live in a metropolitan area, as there may be a PHA for different cities within that clustered area.

It is recommended that you complete as many Section 8 applications as you can, even if an area is a little bit more out of your way. If it’s possible to live in a neighboring town or PHA zone, you might want to submit an application. This may help you receive rental assistance faster because you can be added to multiple waiting lists, and some lists may have fewer applicants or greater amounts of assistance. 

In short, it helps to be flexible. It can be frustrating to have a longer commute to work, but it could be worth it to receive rental assistance faster. If you are willing to relocate, you may find more housing agencies that could potentially provide you with assistance sooner. 

Another great way to improve the likelihood of receiving Section 8 vouchers faster is to frequently check the status of the Public Housing Authorities in your area. PHAs are commonly open with the public about how long their waiting list currently is, where you are on that list, and when a list will open for more applications. 

Once a Section 8 housing waiting list opens, it will likely only remain open for a limited time, especially if you live in a largely populated area or a high-poverty area. That’s why it’s so important to be on the lookout! By following these tips and keeping on the lookout for priority lists you may qualify for, you could help yourself and your family receives Section 8 rental assistance sooner. Along the way, it’s important to not get too discouraged. As frustrating as the process and wait may be, Section 8 can be advantageous in helping families out of poverty.

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