Section 8 Lottery Application: Housing Voucher Guide 2026
Table of contents Section 8 Lottery Application: Complete Housing Choice Voucher Guide Quick Answer Quick Facts What Is the Section 8 Lottery? How the Section 8 Lottery Works Who Qualifies? Income Limits Asset Limits Household Requirements Citizenship Rules Immigration Eligibility State and Local Differences Required Documents How to Apply Online Application Processing Time Payment Schedule…
Section 8 Lottery Application: Complete Housing Choice Voucher Guide
Quick Answer
A Section 8 lottery is a random selection process that public housing agencies (PHAs) use to choose applicants for the Housing Choice Voucher program when demand far exceeds available funding. You apply during a brief open window — usually online and free — and a computer randomly selects names from the pool. Entering does not guarantee a voucher. Over 3,300 PHAs nationwide administer these programs, and each sets its own lottery schedule and rules.
Quick Facts
| Item | Information |
|---|---|
| Program | Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) |
| Agency | Local Public Housing Agencies (PHAs), funded by HUD |
| Eligibility | Income at or below 50% AMI; U.S. citizen or eligible immigrant; age 18+ |
| Income Limits | 50% AMI (very low income); 30% AMI priority for 75% of new admissions |
| Monthly Benefit | Voucher covers portion of rent; tenant pays ~30% of adjusted income |
| Application | Online lottery during open window; some PHAs accept by phone or mail |
| Processing Time | Varies; wait times range from 6 months to 10+ years depending on location |
| Renewal | Annual recertification required |
| Available States | All 50 states, D.C., and U.S. territories |
| Last Updated | September 2026 |
What Is the Section 8 Lottery?
A Section 8 lottery is a random selection system used by public housing agencies (PHAs) to choose which applicants are placed on the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) waiting list. Instead of operating on a first-come, first-served basis — which would overwhelm local agencies — PHAs open a brief application window (typically 1–2 weeks) and then hold a computerized lottery to randomly draw names from the pool of all who applied.
The Housing Choice Voucher program, commonly called Section 8, is a federal rental assistance program funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and administered locally by more than 3,300 PHAs across the country. The program helps very low-income families, seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities afford safe housing in the private market. Participants pay approximately 30% of their adjusted income toward rent, and the PHA pays the remainder directly to the landlord.
Lottery vs. waiting list: A lottery is the method used to select names for the waiting list. The waiting list is the queue of applicants who have been selected and are awaiting a voucher. Some PHAs maintain open waiting lists (first-come, first-served), while others use lotteries because they only open applications periodically. When a PHA opens a lottery, hundreds or thousands of people may register during a short application window, often just two to four weeks.
How the Section 8 Lottery Works
The answer: The lottery process involves four stages: (1) the PHA announces an open application window, (2) applicants submit entries online during that window, (3) the PHA conducts a random computerized drawing, and (4) selected applicants are notified and their eligibility is verified.
Step-by-step lottery process:
Step 1: Watch for the lottery announcement. PHAs announce lottery openings on their websites, in local newspapers, and through community organizations. Some PHAs maintain lottery hotlines with recorded information. For example, Maiker Housing Partners in Colorado uses a dedicated lottery phone line at 303-227-2743.
Step 2: Prepare your information before the window opens. You typically need your email address, full name and date of birth for each household member, Social Security numbers or alien registration numbers, annual income from all sources, and current address and phone number.
Step 3: Submit your entry during the open window. Applications are generally accepted online only. The window may be as short as a few days. For example, Rockland County, NY, opened its Section 8 lottery from March 16–27, 2026, online only at section8.hcr.ny.gov. NYC’s HCR Section 8 lottery was open July 13–24, 2026.
Step 4: Receive a confirmation number. Save this number. You will also typically receive an email confirmation. Write it down and keep it in a safe place.
Step 5: Wait for the lottery drawing. After the window closes, the PHA conducts a random computerized selection. Some PHAs post winning ticket numbers on their websites after the drawing.
Step 6: Complete eligibility screening if selected. If your name is drawn, you will be contacted to verify income, household composition, criminal background, and immigration status.
Important: Only one application per household is permitted. Duplicate applications are voided.
Who Qualifies?
Who qualifies:
You may qualify for a Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher if you meet these requirements:
You are 18 years or older (or an emancipated minor)
At least one household member is a U.S. citizen or eligible immigrant
Your household income is at or below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI)
You meet the PHA’s screening criteria, including criminal background and rental history
Your household meets asset limits (HOTMA now precludes eligibility if a household owns more than approximately $105,574 in assets for 2026)
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 with income above 50% of AMI
Applicants who owe money to subsidized housing programs
Households with no U.S. citizen or eligible immigrant member
Common exceptions:
PHAs may give preferences to working families, elderly families, families with disabilities, veterans, and residents of the local jurisdiction. By law, at least 75% of newly admitted families to the tenant-based voucher program must have annual income at or below 30% of AMI.
Income examples:
| Household Size | 30% AMI (Extremely Low) | 50% AMI (Very Low) | 80% AMI (Low) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $21,250 | $35,400 | $56,640 |
| 2 | $24,300 | $40,450 | $64,720 |
| 3 | $27,350 | $45,500 | $72,800 |
| 4 | $33,000 | $50,550 | $80,880 |
| 5 | $38,680 | $54,600 | $87,360 |
| 6 | $44,360 | $58,650 | $93,840 |
| 7 | $50,040 | $62,700 | $100,320 |
| 8 | $55,720 | $66,750 | $106,800 |
Source: Representative income limits effective May 1, 2026. Your local PHA’s limits will vary by area. Check HUD USER for your specific area’s limits.
Real-life situations:
Family of 4 earning $42,000/year ($3,500/month): This family’s annual income of $42,000 exceeds the 50% AMI limit of $50,550 for many areas but may qualify in higher-cost regions. Check your specific area’s limits — in high-cost metro areas, the 50% AMI limit for a family of 4 can exceed $70,000.
Senior receiving SSI ($967/month, $11,604/year): A single senior with SSI income falls well below the 50% AMI limit of $35,400 and would qualify. Seniors receive preference in most PHAs.
Disabled worker with $1,800/month ($21,600/year): A single disabled person with $21,600 annual income is below the $35,400 limit and would qualify. Disability preference applies.
College student working 15 hours/week: Full-time students generally cannot qualify for Section 8 unless they meet an exemption, such as being 24+, a veteran, married, or having dependent children.
Single mother with 2 children earning $1,200/month ($14,400/year): With a 3-person household, $14,400 is well below the $45,500 limit and would qualify. She would also meet the 30% AMI preference threshold.
Veteran with $1,500/month ($18,000/year): A single veteran with $18,000 annual income is below the $35,400 limit and would qualify. Veterans receive preference in many PHAs.
Retired couple with $2,000/month ($24,000/year): A 2-person elderly household with $24,000 annual income is below the $40,450 limit and would qualify, with elderly preference.
Income Limits
The answer: To qualify for a Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher, your household income must be at or below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI). HUD publishes updated income limits annually, effective May 1, 2026. Local PHAs may set lower limits for specific voucher types.
HUD sets three income tiers for housing assistance programs:
Extremely Low Income (30% AMI): Priority for at least 75% of new voucher admissions
Very Low Income (50% AMI): Standard eligibility threshold for Section 8
Low Income (80% AMI): Used for some public housing programs
What counts as income: Annual gross income includes earned income (wages, self-employment), unearned income (Social Security, SSI, SSDI, VA benefits, unemployment), and asset income (interest, dividends, rental income).
Important note: Income limits vary significantly by geographic area. A family of 4 in San Francisco may have a 50% AMI limit of $80,000+, while the same family in a rural area may have a limit of $40,000. Always check your local PHA’s current income limits.
Asset Limits
The answer: Under the Housing Opportunity Through Modernization Act (HOTMA), households are precluded from eligibility if they own more than approximately $105,574 in net assets (for 2026). A household may also be denied if it owns a home it could live in.
Assets that count:
Bank accounts and cash
Real estate (other than primary residence)
Stocks, bonds, and investments
Retirement accounts (above mandatory thresholds)
Business assets
Personal property of significant value
Assets that do NOT count:
Your primary residence
Personal vehicles (within reasonable limits for daily use)
Household goods and personal belongings
Necessary items for employment or education
Household Requirements
The answer: A household for Section 8 purposes includes all persons who will live in the unit. The PHA verifies household composition to determine the correct income limit and voucher size.
Household members must:
Live in the unit as their primary residence
Be disclosed on the application
Have income and assets reported
Provide Social Security numbers or eligible immigration documents
Special household situations:
Families with children: Qualify and typically receive preference
Elderly families (62+): Qualify and receive preference
Disabled individuals: Qualify and receive preference
Single individuals: Qualify but may receive lower preference in competitive lotteries
Live-in aides: May be permitted for persons with disabilities; an aide’s income is generally not counted
Citizenship Rules
The answer: At least one household member must be a U.S. citizen or an eligible immigrant. The head of household must be at least 18 years old or an emancipated minor.
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
Compact of Free Association citizens
Immigration Eligibility
The answer: Undocumented immigrants cannot receive Section 8 assistance. However, mixed-status households may qualify if at least one member is a U.S. citizen or eligible immigrant. Under a 2026 HUD proposed rule, new families may need every member to have eligible status to receive assistance, even at a prorated amount.
| Immigration Status | Section 8 Eligible? |
|---|---|
| U.S. Citizen | Yes |
| Lawful Permanent Resident (Green Card) | Yes |
| Refugee | Yes |
| Asylee | Yes |
| Cuban/Haitian Entrant | Yes |
| Certain Parolees | Yes |
| Temporary Protected Status (TPS) | No |
| Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) | No |
| Undocumented | No |
Prorated assistance: In mixed-status households where not all members are eligible, the PHA may prorate the subsidy based on the number of eligible household members. However, new HUD rules in 2026 may eliminate prorated assistance in certain circumstances.
State and Local Differences
The answer: Section 8 is federally funded but locally administered, which means the lottery process, income limits, payment standards, preferences, and wait times vary dramatically by location.
Key local differences:
Lottery frequency: Some PHAs open lotteries annually; others open only once every 5–10 years
Application method: Most PHAs now use online-only applications; some still accept paper applications or phone entries
Preferences: Local preferences may include residency, veteran status, disability, homelessness, or domestic violence survivors
Wait times: Major metros like NYC, Los Angeles, and Chicago have 5–10+ year wait times; mid-size cities typically 2–5 years; smaller cities and rural areas 6 months to 3 years
Payment standards: PHAs set payment standards between 90% and 110% of the Fair Market Rent (FMR)
Currently open lotteries (as of September 2026): Approximately 30 waitlists are open nationwide, tracked across 2,148 PHAs. Open PHAs include Montgomery, AL; Oakland, CA; Sacramento, CA; Tampa, FL; Columbus, OH; Dallas, TX; and others. Check HUD’s PHA contact directory or local PHA websites for current openings.
Required Documents
The answer: If selected through the lottery, you will need to provide documentation to verify eligibility. The specific documents requested depend on your household situation.
Required documents typically include:
Proof of identity: Driver’s license, state ID, birth certificate, 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 (last 4–6 weeks), benefit award letters (SSA, SSI, SSDI, VA), unemployment documentation, or self-employment records
Proof of assets: Bank statements, investment statements, retirement account statements
Rental history: Contact information for previous landlords
Criminal background information: For all adult household members
Tip: Gather these documents in advance and store them in a safe place. If selected, you will have a limited time to submit them.
How to Apply
The answer: The only way to apply for a Section 8 lottery is to enter during the open application window. You cannot apply at any other time.
Step-by-step application process:
Step 1: Find open lotteries. Check HUD’s PHA directory, the National Low Income Housing Coalition, or your state housing agency’s website for current lottery openings. The Section 8 Waitlist Tracker at povertylevelcalculator.com monitors open programs nightly.
Step 2: Prepare your information. Before the window opens, gather your email address, household member information, Social Security numbers, income documentation, and current contact information.
Step 3: Submit your entry during the window. Applications are typically online only. Enter at the PHA’s designated website.
Step 4: Save your confirmation number. Write it down and keep the email confirmation.
Step 5: Wait for notification. Selected applicants are contacted by the PHA. You can also check the PHA’s website for lottery results.
Assistance for elderly and disabled applicants: PHAs are required to provide reasonable accommodations. For example, Rockland County allows elderly or disabled applicants who need help completing an application to call 845-364-3100 (Option 7) or email rocklandhcv@dfa.state.ny.us.
Phone assistance: NYC’s HCR Section 8 Waitlist Call Center is available Monday–Saturday, 9 AM–7 PM at (833) 990-4001.
Online Application
The answer: Most Section 8 lotteries are now online-only. You must create an account, complete the application, and submit it during the designated window.
What you need to enter online:
Email address (create one at Gmail, Hotmail, or Yahoo if you don’t have one)
Full name, date of birth, gender, race, and ethnicity for each household member
Relationship to head of household for each member
Social Security numbers or alien registration numbers
Annual income from all sources for each member
Current address, mailing address, and phone number
Computer access: If you don’t have a computer or smartphone, visit your local public library or a community organization. Many PHAs partner with libraries to provide computer access during lottery windows.
Important: It is free to apply. Never pay anyone to submit a Section 8 application or lottery entry. Housing authorities do not charge fees to apply for housing and will never contact you by phone or email to suggest that you apply for a waiting list.
Processing Time
The answer: Processing time varies significantly by PHA and depends on funding availability. After being selected in a lottery, it may take weeks to months for eligibility screening. Once on the waiting list, actual wait times range from 6 months to 10+ years.
Wait time estimates by location (2026):
| Location Type | Typical Wait Time |
|---|---|
| Major metros (NYC, LA, Chicago) | 5–10+ years |
| Mid-size cities | 2–5 years |
| Smaller cities and rural areas | 6 months–3 years |
Source: VoucherRents and BenefitsUSA 2026 data.
According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, families who eventually received vouchers had spent an average of about two and a half years on waitlists first. Some PHAs in larger cities have wait times stretching well beyond that.
What causes delays:
Limited federal funding
High demand
Funding shortfalls
Administrative processing capacity
Payment Schedule
The answer: The Section 8 voucher is not a cash payment. It is a rental subsidy paid directly to your landlord each month. You pay approximately 30% of your adjusted gross income toward rent, and the PHA pays the remainder up to the payment standard.
How payment works:
You find a rental unit that accepts Section 8 vouchers
The PHA inspects the unit to ensure it meets Housing Quality Standards (HQS) or NSPIRE standards
You sign a lease with the landlord
You pay approximately 30% of your adjusted income toward rent
The PHA pays the subsidy directly to the landlord each month
Payment standards: PHAs set payment standards between 90% and 110% of the Fair Market Rent (FMR). For example, one PHA’s 2026 payment standards were $800 for a studio, $910 for a 1-bedroom, $1,150 for a 2-bedroom, $1,550 for a 3-bedroom, and $1,925 for a 4-bedroom. Payment standards vary widely by location.
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:
Receive recertification notice: The PHA sends a notice before your annual recertification date
Complete recertification paperwork: Provide updated income, asset, and household information
Submit verification documents: Pay stubs, benefit letters, and other required documents
Complete interview if required: The PHA may schedule an interview
Receive new voucher: If approved, your voucher continues with updated payment amounts
Reporting changes: You must report certain changes between recertifications, typically within 10 days, including:
Changes in income
Changes in household size
Moving to a new unit
Changes in immigration status
Failure to recertify: Missing your recertification deadline can result in termination of your voucher.
Reasons Applications Are Denied
The answer: The most common reasons for denial include income above the limit, incomplete applications, criminal history, poor rental history, and owing money to housing authorities.
Top denial reasons:
Income exceeds limits: Household income above 50% AMI
Incomplete application: Missing documents or failure to provide accurate information
Criminal record: Certain drug-related offenses or violent crimes may disqualify you
Poor rental history: Previous evictions, unpaid rent, or damage to previous units
Owing money to a PHA: Outstanding debts to any subsidized housing program
Immigration status: No household member has eligible status
Missing deadlines: Failure to appear for appointments or submit documents on time
Asset limits exceeded: Household owns more than $105,574 in assets (2026 threshold)
Fraud or misrepresentation: Providing false information on the application
Important note: Being denied in a lottery does not mean you were deemed ineligible. If your name was not drawn, it simply means the random selection did not choose your entry. There was nothing you did to “not qualify” — placement on the list is random, like picking names out of a hat.
Appeals Process
The answer: If your application is denied or your voucher is terminated, you have the right to request an informal hearing with the PHA.
How to appeal:
Review your denial notice: The notice will explain the reason for denial and the deadline to request a hearing
Request a hearing in writing: Submit your request within the timeframe specified (typically 10–30 days)
Prepare your case: Gather documents and evidence to support your position
Attend the hearing: Present your case to a PHA hearing officer
Receive a decision: The PHA will issue a written decision after the hearing
Further review: If you disagree with the decision, you may have additional appeal options through HUD
What to include in your appeal:
Your name and case number
The reason you are appealing
Any evidence that supports your position
A request for an in-person or telephone hearing
Common Mistakes
The answer: The most common mistakes that prevent people from getting a Section 8 voucher include missing the application window, submitting duplicate entries, and not applying to multiple PHAs.
Mistakes to avoid:
Missing the short application window: Lottery windows are often just 1–2 weeks. Set reminders and apply early.
Submitting duplicate entries: Only one entry per household is allowed. Duplicates are voided.
The “one-city” trap: Many people only apply for Section 8 in the city where they currently live. Apply to multiple PHAs in different jurisdictions to increase your chances.
Inaccurate income reporting: If you report the wrong income, you may be disqualified for fraud or misrepresentation.
Paying for an application: The lottery is free. Never pay anyone to apply. Housing authorities do not charge fees to apply for housing and will never contact you by phone or email to suggest that you apply for a waiting list.
Assuming selection guarantees a voucher: Entering the lottery does not guarantee placement on the waitlist or a voucher.
Not reapplying each year: Lottery entries are not carried over. You must reapply each time a lottery opens.
Not updating contact information: If your contact information changes, notify the PHA immediately.
Not preparing documents in advance: Gather your documents before you apply so you’re ready if selected.
Ignoring lottery results: Check the PHA’s website or call the lottery hotline to see if your number was drawn.
Recent Changes
The answer: Several significant changes have affected the Section 8 program in 2025–2026, including new asset limits under HOTMA, fair housing protections, and funding pressures.
Key recent changes:
HOTMA asset limits (2026): The Housing Opportunity Through Modernization Act now precludes eligibility if a household owns more than $105,574 in assets (for 2026). A household may also be denied eligibility if it owns a home that it could live in.
Fair Housing Improvement Act (2026): Proposed federal legislation would prohibit housing discrimination based on source of income, including Section 8 vouchers. Currently, 19 states and more than 130 municipalities have source-of-income protections.
Mixed-status family rules: A new HUD proposed rule in 2026 would require every member of a family in a unit to have eligible immigration status for the family to receive assistance, even at a prorated amount.
Funding pressures: Budget debates could shape how many vouchers are funded, whether payment standards keep up with rent, and how long waitlists get. If you’re on a waiting list, this can mean a longer wait or even a closed list.
Portability updates: New legislation (H.R. 7139) addresses payment of tenant-based assistance when families move to areas outside their PHA’s jurisdiction.
Federal Fair Market Rent updates: HUD published FY2026 FMRs effective October 1, 2025, with revisions in April 2026 for seven areas based on new survey data.
Comparison Tables
Section 8 vs. Other Housing Assistance Programs
| Program | Monthly Benefit | Income Limit | Apply Online | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Section 8 HCV | Rent subsidy | 50% AMI | Lottery only | 2–10+ years |
| Public Housing | Subsidized unit | 80% AMI | Waitlist | Varies |
| Project-Based Section 8 | Unit-specific subsidy | 50% AMI | Property-specific | Varies |
| Low-Income Housing Tax Credit | Reduced rent | 60% AMI | Property-specific | Varies |
| Emergency Housing Vouchers | Rent subsidy | Very low income | Referral only | Varies |
Section 8 Lottery vs. Waiting List
| Feature | Lottery | Waiting List |
|---|---|---|
| Selection method | Random computerized draw | First-come, first-served or preference-based |
| Application window | Brief (1–2 weeks) | Open or closed periods |
| Frequency | Annual or periodic | Continuous when open |
| Guarantee of placement | No | Yes, if application accepted |
| Typical wait after selection | 2–10+ years | Varies by PHA |
Income Limits by Area (FY2026 Examples)
| Area | Median Family Income | 50% AMI (1 person) | 50% AMI (4 persons) |
|---|---|---|---|
| McAllen, TX MSA | $64,000 | $29,300 | $41,850 |
| Representative PHA | — | $35,400 | $50,550 |
Source: HUD USER FY2026 Income Limits. Your local PHA’s limits will differ.
Common Questions
1. What is a Section 8 lottery?
A Section 8 lottery is a random selection process used by public housing agencies to choose applicants for the Housing Choice Voucher waiting list. Instead of first-come, first-served, a computer randomly draws names from all applications submitted during a brief open window.
2. When do Section 8 lotteries open?
Lottery openings vary by PHA. Some open annually; others open only every 5–10 years. Check HUD’s PHA directory, local PHA websites, or waitlist trackers for current openings. As of September 2026, approximately 30 waitlists are open nationwide.
3. How do I apply for a Section 8 lottery?
Find an open lottery in your area, prepare your household information (names, Social Security numbers, income), and submit your entry online during the open window. Most lotteries are online-only. The application is always free.
4. Does entering a Section 8 lottery guarantee I will get a voucher?
No. Entering does not guarantee placement on the waitlist or a voucher. A random computerized process selects names from the pool. Only a limited number of applicants are selected based on available funding.
5. What is the income limit for Section 8?
Your household income must be at or below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI). Income limits vary by location and household size. For example, in one area, a single person’s limit was $35,400 and a family of four’s limit was $50,550 in 2026.
6. Can I apply for Section 8 in multiple cities?
Yes. In fact, applying to multiple PHAs in different jurisdictions is one of the best strategies to increase your chances. There is no restriction on applying to multiple lotteries.
7. How long is the wait for a Section 8 voucher?
Wait times vary dramatically. Major metros like NYC, LA, and Chicago have 5–10+ year waits. Mid-size cities typically 2–5 years. Smaller cities and rural areas 6 months to 3 years.
8. Is it free to apply for Section 8?
Yes, it is always free. Never pay anyone to submit a Section 8 application or lottery entry. Housing authorities do not charge fees to apply and will never contact you by phone or email to suggest that you apply for a waiting list.
9. What documents do I need for a Section 8 application?
You need proof of identity, Social Security numbers, proof of citizenship or eligible immigration status, proof of income, proof of assets, and rental history. Gather these before applying so you’re ready if selected.
10. Can I appeal a Section 8 denial?
Yes. If your application is denied or your voucher is terminated, you have the right to request an informal hearing with the PHA. Submit your request in writing within the deadline specified in your denial notice.
11. What is the difference between Section 8 and public housing?
Section 8 (Housing Choice Voucher) provides a rent subsidy you use in the private market. Public housing is government-owned housing where you rent directly from the housing authority. Both serve low-income households but operate differently.
12. Can I use my Section 8 voucher in another city?
Yes. The Housing Choice Voucher program includes portability, which allows you to use your voucher in another jurisdiction. Contact your PHA for portability procedures before moving.
13. What happens if I miss the Section 8 lottery window?
If you miss the window, you must wait until the next time the PHA opens its lottery. Lottery entries are not carried over. Set reminders and check PHA websites regularly.
14. 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.
15. How do I check if I was selected in a Section 8 lottery?
Selected applicants are contacted directly by the PHA. Some PHAs also post winning ticket numbers on their websites or provide a lottery hotline with recorded results.
Key Takeaways
A Section 8 lottery is a random selection process for the Housing Choice Voucher waiting list
Income must be at or below 50% of Area Median Income; 75% of new admissions must be at or below 30% AMI
Applications are free, typically online-only, and open for brief windows (1–2 weeks)
Entering the lottery does not guarantee a voucher — selection is random
Over 3,300 PHAs nationwide administer Section 8 programs; each sets its own lottery schedule
Wait times range from 6 months to 10+ years depending on location and funding
At least one household member must be a U.S. citizen or eligible immigrant
HOTMA asset limit: households with more than ~$105,574 in assets (2026) may be ineligible
Apply to multiple PHAs in different jurisdictions to increase your chances
Never pay anyone to apply — the lottery is always free
Related Government Benefits
1. Public Housing: Government-owned affordable housing units managed by local PHAs. Rent is based on income. Apply through the PHA’s public housing waitlist when open.
2. Project-Based Section 8: Rental assistance tied to specific units. Apply directly to properties that participate in the program.
3. Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC): Affordable rental units developed with federal tax credits. Rent is below market rate. Apply directly to properties.
4. HUD-VASH: Housing vouchers for homeless veterans. Administered through the VA and local housing authorities.
5. Family Unification Program (FUP): Vouchers for families involved in the child welfare system. Administered through PHAs and child welfare agencies.
6. 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.
7. Continuum of Care (CoC) Programs: Homeless assistance programs funded by HUD. Provide transitional housing, rapid re-housing, and permanent supportive housing.
8. Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): Helps eligible households pay heating and cooling bills. Apply through your state human services agency.
9. SNAP (Food Assistance): Helps low-income households buy food. Apply through your state human services agency.
10. Medicaid: Free or low-cost health insurance for eligible residents. Apply through HealthCare.gov or your state Medicaid agency.
11. Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): Cash assistance for families with children. Apply through your state human services agency.
12. Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): A refundable tax credit for working individuals and families with low to moderate income. File through the IRS.
Official Government Resources
HUD (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development): hud.gov
HUD Housing Choice Voucher Program: hud.gov/topics/housing_choice_voucher_program_section_8
HUD Income Limits: huduser.gov/portal/datasets/il.html
HUD Fair Market Rents: huduser.gov/portal/datasets/fmr.html
Find Your Local PHA: hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts
HUD Office of Inspector General (Scam Alerts): hudoig.gov
USAGov Section 8 Housing: usa.gov/housing-voucher-section-8
IRS: IRS.gov
FEMA: FEMA.gov
Department of Labor: DOL.gov



