Denver Section 8 Voucher: Income Limits & Lottery Info

Denver Section 8 Lottery: Housing Choice Voucher Guide

Quick Answer

The Denver Section 8 lottery is an annual online random drawing administered by the Denver Housing Authority (DHA) for the Housing Choice Voucher program. The 2026 lottery was open September 17–18, 2026, for 48 hours. Entries are free and accepted online only at denverhousing.org. Entering does not guarantee a voucher — DHA randomly selects names if vouchers become available. The waiting list is currently closed.

Quick Facts

What Is the Denver Section 8 Lottery?

The Denver Section 8 lottery is the annual random selection process the Denver Housing Authority (DHA) uses to choose applicants for the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program. Unlike traditional waiting lists that operate on a first-come, first-served basis, Denver uses a lottery system because demand far exceeds available funding. Every fall, up to 30,000 people enter applications, but DHA can only select a limited number of names based on available vouchers. The Housing Choice Voucher program — formerly known as Section 8 — is a federal housing subsidy funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). It helps very low-income families, elderly individuals, veterans, and people with disabilities afford housing in the private market. Participants pay approximately 30% of their adjusted income toward rent, and the voucher subsidizes the remainder. DHA manages roughly 8,000 current voucher participants and spent more than $167 million on the HCV program in 2025 — nearly half of DHA’s annual budget.

How the Lottery Works

The answer: The Denver Section 8 lottery operates as an online random drawing. The lottery window is open for just 48 hours each year. Entries are accepted online only. After the window closes, DHA randomly selects names from the pool if vouchers become available. Selected applicants are then screened for eligibility and issued vouchers on a rolling basis.

Step-by-step lottery process:

Step 1: Watch for the lottery announcement. DHA announces lottery dates in local newspapers, on its phone system, and on its website (denverhousing.org). The lottery typically opens in early fall.

Step 2: Enter during the 48-hour window. The 2026 lottery was open from 12:01 a.m. on Thursday, September 17, 2026, through 11:59 p.m. on Friday, September 18, 2026. There is no application to fill out in advance — entries are accepted online only during the window.

Step 3: Submit one entry per household. Only one online submission per household is allowed. Duplicate entries are discarded.

Step 4: Wait for selection. DHA randomly selects names from the lottery pool if vouchers become available. Entering the lottery does not guarantee a voucher.

Step 5: Complete screening. If selected, you will be contacted to complete eligibility screening, including income verification, criminal background check, and rental history.

Step 6: Receive your voucher. After passing screening, you receive a voucher and can begin searching for a rental unit.

Important notes:

• It is free to enter the lottery. Never pay anyone to apply for affordable housing.

• Lottery entries are not carried over from year to year. You must reapply each year.

• DHA’s Section 8 lottery has been online for more than a decade, operating around the clock so that people could enter any hour of the day over the two days it is open.

Who Qualifies?

Who qualifies:

You may qualify for a Denver Housing Choice Voucher if you meet these basic requirements:

• You are 18 years or older

• You are a U.S. citizen or eligible immigrant (at least one family member must be a U.S. citizen)

• Your household income is at or below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI)

• You have legal capacity to enter into a lease under state and local law

• You pass criminal background screening

Who does NOT qualify:

• Registered sex offenders

• Individuals convicted of methamphetamine manufacture or production on public housing premises

• Households evicted from federally assisted housing for drug-related criminal activity in the past 3 years

• Households evicted from federally assisted housing in the past 5 years

• Applicants who owe money to subsidized housing programs

• Households with income above 50% of AMI

Common exceptions:

DHA gives preferences to working families, families receiving disability benefits, and elderly families. At least 75% of newly admitted families to the tenant-based voucher program must have annual income at or below 30% of AMI. Applicants do not need to live in Denver to apply, and if selected, the voucher can be ported to other areas — including Boulder County and other jurisdictions.

Income examples:

Source: HUD FY2026 Income Limits for Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO MSA

Real-life situations:

• Family of 4 earning $42,000/year ($3,500/month): This family is below the 50% AMI limit of $72,000 for a 4-person household and would qualify to enter the lottery. They would also meet the 30% AMI preference threshold of $43,200.

• Senior receiving SSI ($967/month, $11,604/year): A single senior with SSI income falls well below the $50,400 limit for a 1-person household and would qualify, with preference as an elderly family.

• Disabled worker with $1,800/month ($21,600/year): A single disabled person with $21,600 annual income is below the $50,400 limit and would qualify, with preference as a family receiving disability benefits.

• College student working 15 hours/week: Full-time students generally cannot qualify for Section 8 unless they meet an exemption. Part-time students may qualify if income is below the limit.

• Single mother with 2 children earning $1,200/month ($14,400/year): With a 3-person household, $14,400 is well below the $64,800 limit and would qualify. She would also meet the 30% AMI preference threshold of $38,900.

• Veteran with $1,500/month ($18,000/year): A single veteran with $18,000 annual income is below the $50,400 limit and would qualify.

• Retired couple with $2,000/month ($24,000/year): A 2-person elderly household with $24,000 annual income is below the $57,600 limit and would qualify, with preference as an elderly family.

Income Limits

The answer: To qualify for a Denver Housing Choice Voucher, your household income must be at or below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI). For the Denver-Aurora-Centennial MSA, the median family income for FY2026 is $144,000. The 50% AMI limit ranges from $50,400 for a 1-person household to $95,050 for an 8-person household.

FY2026 Income Limits for Denver-Aurora-Centennial, CO MSA:

Source: HUD FY2026 Income Limits Documentation System

By law, at least 75% of newly admitted families to the Housing Choice Voucher Tenant-Based Program must have annual income at or below 30% of AMI. This means extremely low-income households receive priority in voucher allocation.

Asset Limits

The answer: The Housing Choice Voucher program does not have a strict asset limit like some other assistance programs. However, assets are considered when calculating total household income, and any income generated from assets counts toward the income limit.

Assets that may be considered include:

• Bank accounts and cash

• Real estate (other than your primary residence)

• Stocks, bonds, and investments

• Personal property

Assets that are generally not counted include:

• Your primary residence

• Personal vehicles (within reasonable limits)

• Household goods and personal belongings

Household Requirements

The answer: A household for Section 8 purposes includes all persons who will live in the unit. Household composition affects both the income limit and the voucher size.

Household members must:

• Live in the unit as their primary residence

• Be disclosed on the application

• Have their income and assets reported

Special household situations:

• Families with children: Qualify and receive preference

• Elderly families (62+): Qualify and receive preference

• Disabled individuals: Qualify and receive preference

• Single individuals: Qualify but receive lower preference than families

• Roommates: May apply together as a household

• Live-in aides: May be permitted for persons with disabilities

Citizenship Rules

The answer: To qualify for a Denver Housing Choice Voucher, at least one household member must be a U.S. citizen or eligible immigrant. The lottery is open to U.S. citizens and eligible immigrants who have legal capacity to enter into a lease under state and local law.

Eligible immigrant categories include:

• Lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders)

• Refugees

• Asylees

• Cuban/Haitian entrants

• Certain parolees

• Battered spouses and children

• Trafficking victims

• Individuals with deportation withheld

Mixed-status households can apply if at least one member is a U.S. citizen or eligible immigrant. The income of all household members is counted, regardless of immigration status.

Immigration Eligibility

The answer: Undocumented immigrants are NOT eligible for Section 8 vouchers. However, they may live in a household where the head of household or spouse is a U.S. citizen or eligible immigrant.

Mixed-status households may receive a prorated subsidy based on the number of eligible household members.

State Differences

The answer: The Denver Housing Authority operates its Section 8 program under federal HUD rules, but Denver has specific local policies and preferences.

Key Denver-specific features:

• Annual lottery system: Denver uses a lottery rather than a traditional waiting list

• Portability: Vouchers can be used outside Denver, including Boulder County and other areas

• Working family preference: Working families, families receiving disability benefits, and elderly families receive preference

• 30% AMI priority: At least 75% of newly admitted families must be at or below 30% of AMI

• Opportunity Centers: DHA provides two Opportunity Centers with computer access for lottery entry at Westwood Homes (855 South Irving Street) and North Lincoln Homes (1401 Mariposa Street)

• Funding constraints: DHA announced it would not issue new vouchers in 2025 due to a federal funding shortfall

Required Documents

The answer: If selected through the lottery, you will need to provide documentation to verify eligibility.

Required documents include:

• Proof of identity: Driver’s license, state ID, or passport

• Social Security Numbers: For all household members

• Proof of citizenship or eligible immigration status: Birth certificate, passport, Green Card, or other immigration documents

• Proof of income: Pay stubs, benefit letters (Social Security, SSI, SSDI, VA benefits), or unemployment documentation

• Proof of assets: Bank statements, investment statements

• Rental history: Contact information for previous landlords

• Criminal background information: For all adult household members

How to Apply

The answer: The only way to apply for a Denver Housing Choice Voucher is to enter the annual lottery during the 48-hour window. Entries are accepted online only at denverhousing.org/housing-choice-vouchers-section8.

Step-by-step application process:

Step 1: Visit the DHA website. Go to denverhousing.org/housing-choice-vouchers-section8 during the lottery window.

Step 2: Complete the online lottery entry. There is no application to fill out in advance — entries are accepted online only during the 48-hour lottery window. You will need basic information about your household, including names, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers.

Step 3: Submit your entry. Only one entry per household is allowed. You will receive a confirmation number.

Step 4: Wait for selection. DHA randomly selects names from the lottery pool if vouchers become available.

Step 5: Complete screening if selected. If your name is drawn, you will be contacted to complete eligibility screening.

Computer access:

If you don’t have access to a computer or smartphone, DHA offers two Opportunity Centers open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.:

• Westwood Homes: 855 South Irving Street

• North Lincoln Homes: 1401 Mariposa Street

Denver Public Library also offers computer access at all locations. Visit denverlibrary.org/locations or call (720) 865-1111 for locations and hours.

Important: DHA’s Osage Street office is NOT open for lottery entries. Do not pay anyone to participate in the HCV Lottery.

Online Application

The answer: The Denver Housing Choice Voucher lottery entry is completed entirely online at denverhousing.org/housing-choice-vouchers-section8.

What you need to enter:

• Names and dates of birth for all household members

• Social Security numbers for all household members

• Current contact information (address, phone, email)

• Basic income information

Tips for entering:

• Enter early in the window — the system may experience high traffic

• Have all information ready before starting

• Save your confirmation number

• Do not submit multiple entries — only one per household is allowed

Checking lottery results:

DHA posts a list of winning ticket numbers on its website after the drawing. You can also call DHA’s main phone system for updates.

Processing Time

The answer: After the lottery window closes, DHA randomly selects names if vouchers become available. Processing time for selected applicants varies depending on funding availability and the screening process.

Timeline:

• Lottery window: 48 hours

• Selection notification: Varies; may take weeks or months

• Screening and verification: Several weeks after selection

• Voucher issuance: After screening is complete

• Housing search: Voucher holders typically have 60 days to find a unit (may be extended)

Important context: Due to a federal funding shortfall, DHA announced it would not give out new vouchers in 2025. The agency spent more than $167 million on the HCV program in 2025 — nearly half of DHA’s annual budget — and HUD projected a funding shortfall that prompted cost-cutting measures.

Payment Schedule

The answer: The Housing Choice Voucher is not a cash benefit. It is a rental subsidy paid directly to your landlord. You pay approximately 30% of your adjusted gross income toward rent, and the voucher covers the remainder up to the payment standard.

FY2026 Payment Standards for Denver County:

Source: HUD FY2026 Fair Market Rents for Denver County

How payment works:

1. You find a rental unit that accepts Section 8 vouchers

2. DHA inspects the unit for quality standards

3. You sign a lease with the landlord

4. You pay approximately 30% of your adjusted income toward rent

5. DHA pays the subsidy directly to the landlord each month

Utility allowance: If utilities are not included in your rent, you receive a utility allowance that reduces your rent portion.

Renewal Process

The answer: Voucher holders must recertify their income and household composition annually to continue receiving assistance.

Annual recertification steps:

1. Receive recertification notice: DHA sends a notice before your annual recertification date

2. Complete recertification paperwork: Provide updated income, asset, and household information

3. Submit verification documents: Pay stubs, benefit letters, and other required documents

4. Complete interview if required: DHA may schedule an interview

5. Receive new voucher: If approved, your voucher continues with updated payment amounts

Reporting changes: You must report certain changes between recertifications, including:

• Changes in income

• Changes in household size

• Moving to a new unit

• Changes in immigration status

Reasons Applications Are Denied

The answer: The most common reasons for denial are criminal background issues, previous evictions from federally assisted housing, and owing money to housing authorities.

Top denial reasons:

1. Criminal history: Registered sex offenders, methamphetamine production convictions, or certain drug-related offenses

2. Previous evictions: Eviction from federally assisted housing for drug-related activity in the past 3 years

3. Outstanding debts: Owing money to DHA or other housing authorities

4. Income above limits: Household income exceeds 50% of AMI

5. Immigration status: No household member is a U.S. citizen or eligible immigrant

6. Rental history: Poor rental history or previous landlord debts

7. Fraud or misrepresentation: Providing false information on the application

Appeals Process

The answer: If your application is denied or your voucher is terminated, you have the right to request an informal hearing with DHA.

How to appeal:

1. Request a hearing: You must request a hearing in writing within the timeframe specified in your denial notice

2. Prepare your case: Gather documents and evidence to support your position

3. Attend the hearing: Present your case to a DHA hearing officer

4. Receive a decision: DHA will issue a written decision after the hearing

5. Further review: If you disagree with the decision, you may have additional appeal options

Common Mistakes

The answer: The most common mistakes that prevent people from getting a Denver Section 8 voucher include missing the lottery window, submitting duplicate entries, and assuming they will be selected.

Mistakes to avoid:

1. Missing the 48-hour lottery window: The window is very short — set a reminder

2. Submitting duplicate entries: Only one entry per household is allowed

3. Paying someone to apply: The lottery is free — never pay for an application

4. Assuming selection guarantees a voucher: Entering the lottery does not guarantee a voucher

5. Not reapplying each year: Lottery entries are not carried over

6. Providing false information: This can result in denial and future disqualification

7. Not updating contact information: If your contact info changes, notify DHA

8. Not preparing for screening: Gather documents in advance in case you are selected

9. Not understanding income limits: Check the current 50% AMI limits for your household size

10. Not exploring other options: Consider other affordable housing programs while waiting

Recent Changes

The answer: The most significant recent change is a federal funding shortfall that has prevented DHA from issuing new vouchers in 2025 and may affect future voucher availability.

Key recent changes:

1. Funding shortfall: In 2025, HUD informed DHA of a projected funding shortfall, prompting DHA to impose cost-cutting measures including not giving out new vouchers, imposing a 60-day limit to use existing vouchers, and not accepting out-of-town vouchers.

2. Fair Market Rent reduction: The federal government lowered the Fair Market Rent for metro Denver, and DHA changed its Voucher Payment Standard to align with the new federal limits.

3. Rent increase requests: DHA asked landlords to forgo rent increases or keep increases low. About half of housing providers cooperated; the other half declined.

4. 2026 lottery: The 2026 lottery was open September 17–18, 2026, for 48 hours, with entries accepted online only.

5. Portability preserved: Despite restrictions, DHA continues to allow voucher portability, meaning vouchers can be used outside Denver.

Comparison Tables

Denver Section 8 vs. Other Housing Programs

Denver Section 8 Income Limits by Household Size (FY2026)

Denver Payment Standards by Unit Size (FY2026)

Common Questions

1. When is the Denver Section 8 lottery open?
The 2026 lottery was open September 17–18, 2026, for 48 hours. DHA typically opens the lottery in early fall each year. Dates are announced on denverhousing.org, in local newspapers, and on DHA’s phone system.

2. How do I enter the Denver Section 8 lottery?
Visit denverhousing.org/housing-choice-vouchers-section8 during the 48-hour window and complete the online entry form. There is no application to fill out in advance. Only one entry per household is allowed.

3. Does entering the lottery guarantee I will get a voucher?
No. Entering the lottery does not guarantee a voucher. DHA randomly selects names from the lottery pool if vouchers become available. Due to limited funding, only a small percentage of applicants are selected.

4. What is the income limit for a Denver Section 8 voucher?
Your household income must be at or below 50% of the Area Median Income. For a family of 4, the limit is $72,000 per year. For a single person, the limit is $50,400 per year.

5. Do I have to live in Denver to enter the lottery?
No. Applicants do not need to live in Denver to apply. If selected, the voucher can be ported to other areas, including Boulder County.

6. Can I use my Denver voucher outside of Denver?
Yes. Portability is allowed, meaning you can use the voucher wherever you currently live, including Boulder County and other jurisdictions.

7. How many people enter the Denver Section 8 lottery each year?
Up to 30,000 people enter applications each year, but DHA can only select a limited number based on available vouchers.

8. Why weren’t new vouchers issued in 2025?
DHA announced it would not give out new vouchers in 2025 due to a federal funding shortfall. HUD projected a shortfall for DHA, prompting cost-cutting measures including not issuing new vouchers.

9. What documents do I need if selected?
If selected, you will need proof of identity, Social Security numbers, proof of citizenship or eligible immigration status, proof of income, proof of assets, rental history, and criminal background information.

10. How long does it take to get a voucher after being selected?
Processing time varies depending on funding availability and the screening process. After selection, you must complete eligibility screening, which may take several weeks.

11. Can I appeal if I’m denied?
Yes. If your application is denied or your voucher is terminated, you have the right to request an informal hearing with DHA. You must request a hearing in writing within the timeframe specified in your denial notice.

12. What is the difference between Section 8 and public housing?
Section 8 (Housing Choice Voucher) provides a rent subsidy that you use in the private market. Public housing is government-owned housing where you rent directly from the housing authority. Both programs serve low-income households but operate differently.

13. Can I apply for Section 8 if I have a criminal record?
It depends on the offense. Registered sex offenders and individuals convicted of methamphetamine production on public housing premises are prohibited. Other criminal records are reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

14. How do I check if I was selected in the lottery?
DHA posts a list of winning ticket numbers on its website after the drawing. You can also call DHA’s main phone system for updates. Selected applicants will be contacted directly.

15. Is there a cost to enter the lottery?
No. It is free to enter the lottery. Never pay anyone to apply for affordable housing. DHA does not charge for lottery entries.

Key Takeaways

• The Denver Section 8 lottery is an annual online random drawing for Housing Choice Vouchers

• The 2026 lottery was open September 17–18, 2026, for 48 hours

• Entries are free, online only at denverhousing.org, and limited to one per household

• Income must be at or below 50% of Area Median Income (e.g., $72,000 for a family of 4)

• At least 75% of newly admitted families must be at or below 30% of AMI

• Entering the lottery does not guarantee a voucher — DHA randomly selects names

• DHA did not issue new vouchers in 2025 due to a federal funding shortfall

• Portability is allowed — vouchers can be used outside Denver, including Boulder County

• Computer access is available at DHA Opportunity Centers and Denver Public Library

• Up to 30,000 people enter the lottery each year; only a small percentage are selected

Related Government Benefits

1. Denver Public Housing: Government-owned affordable housing units managed by DHA. Rent is based on income. Apply through DHA’s public housing waitlist when open.

2. Colorado Housing Finance Authority (CHFA): Administers Section 8 vouchers in some Colorado areas. Operates its own lottery system.

3. Boulder County Housing Authority: Administers Section 8 vouchers in Boulder County. Operates its own lottery system.

4. Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC): Affordable rental units developed with federal tax credits. Rent is below market rate. Apply directly to properties.

5. Project-Based Section 8: Rental assistance tied to specific units. Apply directly to properties that participate in the program.

6. HUD-VASH: Housing vouchers for homeless veterans. Administered through the VA and local housing authorities.

7. Family Unification Program (FUP): Vouchers for families involved in the child welfare system. Administered through DHA and child welfare agencies.

8. Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHV): Vouchers for individuals and families who are homeless, at risk of homelessness, or fleeing domestic violence. Distributed through Continuums of Care.

9. Colorado Emergency Rental Assistance Program: Helps eligible households pay rent and utilities during financial hardship.

10. Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): Helps eligible households pay heating and cooling bills. Apply through the Colorado Department of Human Services.

11. SNAP (Food Assistance): Helps low-income households buy food. Apply through the Colorado Department of Human Services.

12. Medicaid: Free or low-cost health insurance for eligible Colorado residents. Apply through Colorado PEAK.

Official Government Resources

• Denver Housing Authority: denverhousing.org

• Housing Choice Voucher Program: denverhousing.org/housing-choice-vouchers-section8

• HUD (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development): hud.gov

• HUD Income Limits: huduser.gov

• Colorado Housing Finance Authority: chfainfo.com

• Boulder County Housing Authority: bouldercounty.gov

• Colorado Department of Human Services: cdhs.colorado.gov

• Colorado PEAK (Benefits Application): colorado.gov/PEAK

• Benefits.gov: Benefits.gov

• USA.gov: USA.gov

• Social Security Administration: SSA.gov

• IRS: IRS.gov

• FEMA: FEMA.gov

• Department of Labor: DOL.gov

• HealthCare.gov: HealthCare.gov