Summer 2005

Are You in Danger of Losing Your Section 8 Voucher?

The following article appeared in the May 2005 edition of CABN Fever. Click on the CABN Fever link

Section 8 administrators, including the housing authorities, are discussing ways to stretch Section 8 funds. Terminating assistance of some current voucher holders is one way the administrators can stretch Section 8 funds. Make sure you meet all your responsibilities as a tenant. If you are not sure what your responsibilities are, read your Section 8 handout or handbook. If you do not have one, contact your Section 8 administrator to ask for one. It's best to write and keep a copy of your letter.

Some things you must do:

  • Report all income changes for anyone in the household as soon as possible. This includes both increases and decreases in income. Report them in writing, not just a phone call, if you can. Keep a copy.
  • Report promptly when someone moves in or out of your household. Again, do this in writing, if you can. Keep a copy.
  • Do not move into a new apartment until Section 8 has inspected and approved the new place.
  • Show up on time for your recertification. Be sure to have ALL the paper work that is requested by your Section 8 worker. If an inspection of your apartment is scheduled, be sure you are there on time for the appointment to let the inspector in, or that you call before the appointment if you have to reschedule.
  • Comply with your responsibilities in your lease.

Termination:

Following all the Section 8 rules will not guarantee you keep all your voucher benefits. However, you will be doing everything you can to keep this valuable benefit. Before you can be terminated, you have a right to a hearing. If you are threatened with termination or have any other problem using your voucher, call Statewide Legal Services at 1-800-453-3320 immediately.