What is the Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8)?
The Housing Choice Voucher, formerly known as Section 8 Program, is a federally-funded rental assistance program that helps eligible individuals and families pay for housing. With SCCHA’s interest lists, applicants can register to be considered for two types of rental assistance: Housing Choice Vouchers or Property Based Vouchers.
Housing Choice Vouchers
Under the Housing Choice Voucher program, an eligible individual or family locates and rents a home; this could be an apartment, condo, single-family home, etc. With a Housing Choice Voucher, it is the tenant’s responsibility to find a home compatible with their family’s needs, including any accessibility needs.
Property Vouchers
The term Section 8 can also refer to site-based vouchers, or “Property Vouchers.” In this program, an eligible individual or family is offered a specific rental apartment to live in within the county. Many properties have designated homes that are accessible to those with disabilities.
See How the Programs Compare
Where will I live?
You choose your rental unit.
The rental assistance is attached to a specific rental home that is provided to you. This removes the stress of finding your own home!
Can I move?
Yes, you can use your housing voucher at another home of your choice.
Yes, after residing in the home for two years you may request a Housing Choice Voucher to move to a home of your choice (subject to availability).
How much will I pay in rent?
On average, voucher holders pay 1/3 of their monthly income towards rent. The Housing Authority pays the difference.
Are local residents more likely to receive a voucher?
Yes, preference will be given to those on the interest lists who live or work, or have lived or worked, in Santa Clara County within the last five years.
Note: You must register to be considered for the Housing Choice Voucher program before registering to be considered for a Property Voucher.
See How the Programs Compare
Where will I live?
- Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV)
You choose your rental unit. - Property Vouchers (PBV)
The rental assistance is attached to a specific rental home that is provided to you. This removes the stress of finding your own home!
Can I move?
- Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV)
Yes, you can use your housing voucher at another home of your choice. - Property Vouchers (PBV)
Yes, after residing in the home for two years you may request a Housing Choice Voucher to move to a home of your choice (subject to availability).
How much will I pay in rent?
- Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV)
On average, voucher holders pay 1/3 of their monthly income towards rent. The Housing Authority pays the difference. - Property Vouchers (PBV)
Same as Housing Choice Voucher.
Are local residents more likely to receive a voucher?
- Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV)
Yes, preference will be given to those on the interest lists who live or work, or have lived or worked, in Santa Clara County within the last five years. - Property Vouchers (PBV)
Same as Housing Choice Voucher.
Note: You must register to be considered for the Housing Choice Voucher program before registering to be considered for a Property Voucher.
How do I get a Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8)?
Learn More- You are already on the waiting list. (The waiting list has not been opened since 2006. In the meantime you can get on the interest lists.)
- You still meet the income requirements.
- No one in your household is reported as a lifetime registered sex offender.
Need More Information?
Still Have Questions?
Contact us today to learn more about the Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) program.
