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Program Description

The housing choice voucher program helps very low-income families, the elderly, and people with disabilities afford safe, healthy rental housing. Housing can include single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments.

General Program Requirements

Public housing agencies (PHAs) handle housing choice vouchers locally. If you get a voucher, you must find housing where the owner agrees to rent under the program. This could include your present home. Rentals must meet the PHA’s minimum standards of health and safety.

The PHA pays the landlord the housing subsidy on your behalf. You pay the difference between the actual rent cost and the amount of the subsidy.

Under certain circumstances, if approved by the PHA, a family may be able to use their voucher to buy a modest home.

To learn more, visit the Housing Choice Vouchers Fact Sheet page for details. You may also want to visit HUD’s Public Housing Program page.

Application Process

To apply for a voucher, contact your local PHA. If you can’t reach a PHA, contact the local HUD field office for help.

Last Updated: 11/22/2023