Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Housing Choice?
Housing Choice is PHA’s Section 8 voucher program. Section 8 is a federally subsidized housing program, monitored by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The program provides rental assistance to low-income families in privately owned housing units nationwide. Section 8 was established as a stepping-stone for low-income tenants to achieve self-sufficiency.
Is PHA accepting applications for the Housing Choice Voucher Program?
The HCV wait list is currently closed. HCV is not accepting new applications. The public will be notified through TV, radio, print advertising, and on this website when the HCV wait list will be reopened.
How are applicants selected? Is it a lottery?
Yes, the wait list is lottery-based. Applicants are assigned a waitlist number if selected for the HCV waitlist.
When was Section 8 established?
The Housing Choice Voucher Program was created in 1974 by Congress through the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 (Section 8 of the U.S. Housing Act of 1937, as amended).
Is PHA the only agency in Philadelphia that provides voucher assistance?
No. Although PHA is the largest administrator of the program in Philadelphia, there are other local agencies that provide housing assistance. Please Visit HUD and city websites for other housing resources.
Who is eligible for Housing Choice?
The following determine if an applicant is eligible:
https://www.hud.gov/topics/housing_choice_voucher_program_section_8
How is Housing Choice rent determined?
IHousing Choice tenants pay monthly rent based on their income. HUD subsidies cover the difference between the amount paid by tenants and the market rent for the unit. The 40% rent burden rule dictates that tenants can’t pay more than 40% of their adjusted monthly income in rent for two years of the lease.
Are Housing Choice participants also tenants of PHA?
No. Tenants in private rental units are the owner/landlord’s tenants. PHA is the administrator of the program in Philadelphia. However, HCV participants have access to PHA programs including home ownership and family self -sufficiency.
Who pays the rent for tenants in the Housing Choice?
PHA pays monthly rent directly to the owners or landlords of the units. The tenants do not receive any of the money paid for rental assistance.
Are there enough units for all of the participants?
Yes, PHA has a landlord outreach to ensure enough units for the tenants.
How can I contact the HCV program?
You can contact the HCV program’s Customer Support Center at 215-684-4300
What if the landlord is interested in joining the HCV program?
Landlords can visit our Landlords page here: https://www.pha.phila.gov/landlords/
