What is HAPP?
The Housing Choice Voucher Program is a type of Federal assistance provided by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) dedicated to sponsoring subsidized housing for low-income families and individuals. It is more commonly known as Section 8, in reference to the portion of the U.S. Housing Act of 1937 under which the original subsidy program was authorized. The United States Code (the compilation of current U.S. federal laws) covers this program in Title 42, Chapter 8.
How do I apply for Section 8?
Applying to the Housing Choice Voucher Program
Housing Choice Voucher Program Page
Eligibility
Georgia residents whose income does not exceed 50 percent of the area median income for the family size are eligible to participate in the Housing Choice Voucher Program. Each rental unit housing the participants must meet Housing Quality Standards (HQS) as determined by HUD. These units cannot rent for more than DCA's Market Comparability Surveys.
Eligible Candidates Applying for the Program
DCA announces the opening and closing of the waiting list by publishing a Public Notice in the legal section of the classifieds in the newspaper that serves the county that will be opened. To check if a waiting list is open for a county, each -interested person should call (888) 858-6085 or (404) 327-7912.
If a waiting list is open for a county, the public notice will provide information about program guidelines and application procedures. An application will be mailed to the individual (family) and when returned to our office, the applicant will be placed on the waiting list for an available voucher. DCA does not charge for an application. Please be apprehensive of any website or company that charges you for a Section 8 application.
After an applicant is placed on the waiting list, DCA reviews family composition and income, to determine eligibility. Once an applicant is selected from the waiting list and briefed on program requirements, the family is issued a Housing Choice Voucher. This authorizes the family to search for suitable housing, which must be inspected and approved by DCA. Finally, a lease between the tenant and landlord, and a Housing Assistance Payments (HAP) Contract between the landlord and DCA must be executed to finalize the process.
2011 Income Limits (PDF)
County Newspapers (PDF)
Information for Prospective Tenants (PDF)
HCVP Frequently Asked Questions (PDF)
Inspection Request Form (PDF)
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