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How Long Do I Have To Use My Section 8 Voucher?
In this article, you will learn how long you have to use your Section 8 voucher. Once you are awarded Section 8 housing, you have a specific timeframe to find a Section 8 landlord.
In this article, you will learn about that timeframe and where you can look to find Section 8 housing.
Section 8 Voucher Deadline: How Long Do I Have To Use My Housing Voucher?
You will need to use your voucher within 60 days of receiving it. This means you will need to find a Section 8 property that is approved by HUD in less than 60 days.
While you do not need to move into your Section 8 apartment or house, you will need to at least have a Request for Tenancy Approval. This is the process of submitting a request to your housing authority to inspect and approve the Section 8 property you are interested in.
How To Find A Section 8 Landlord To Accept Your Voucher
If you need to find a landlord to accept your voucher in 60 days, places that you can look for Section 8 properties include:
- Your Local Housing Authority – They will likely have connections to Section 8 landlords in your city. You can find your local housing authority by visiting the HUD website.
- Affordable Housing – This was formerly the Go Section 8 website. Many landlords who accept housing post their property on this website.
- Affordable Housing Online – A different website from the one above that also offers listings of apartments that take Section 8 vouchers.
- Social Serve – This website also lists housing programs in your area that take Section 8 vouchers.
For more information about using each option above to find a Section 8 landlord see this resource guide we created.
What If I Cannot Find A Section 8 Property In 60 Days?
You will need to speak to the housing authority. In some cases, they can offer extensions to give you more time to search for a Section 8 apartment. There is no guarantee that you will get an extension, but housing authorities will consider your request for an extension on a case-by-case basis.
Conclusion
Once you are approved for Section 8, you will have 60 days to find a landlord that accepts housing. While you do not need to be moved into the Section 8 property, you will need to at least have submitted a Request for Tenancy Approval. This is the process of having HUD inspect and approve the Section 8 apartment you are wanting to move into.
If you do not believe that you can find a property in 60 days, speak to your housing case manager or someone else in the housing authority that you applied for benefits.
Similar Articles That May Interest You:
- What Is The Monthly Cost Of Section 8 Housing?
- How To Apply For Section 8 Housing
- Can You Apply For Housing In A Different City Than Where You Live?
- How To Get Section 8 Immediately (Relatively Unknown Strategy)
Nick Bryant is a Counselor with 11 years of experience working in community health. He enjoys concerts, walks with the doggo and wife, mocking Dallas Cowboy fans, and sharing community resources. Jump on the Houston Case Managers email list to receive weekly community resource guides delivered directly to your inbox.
