Phoenix Housing Department opens housing choice voucher portal Sept. 12
Staff Reports | Digital Free Press
Phoenix Housing Department officials say they are opening pre-application opportunities for those looking to join the housing choice voucher waitlist.
Officials at Phoenix City Hall say the opening of the waitlist application is the first opportunity since 2016 for individuals and families in need of assistance paying rental housing.
The HCV waitlist will be open for pre-applications for 15 days, from 8 a.m. Sept. 12, through 7 p.m. Sept. 26, according to a press release.
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The Housing Department will be accepting pre-applications online or by paper, in-person, by email, fax, or mail, and in multiple languages. The City’s HCV program — commonly known as Section 8 — is available for low-income individuals and families.
“The Housing Choice Voucher program is a necessary and valuable resource for Phoenix residents,” said Titus Mathew, Phoenix Housing Department director said in a prepared statement. “We are excited for the opportunity for more individuals and families to join the waitlist and have access to assistance in obtaining safe and stable affordable housing.”
Phoenix Housing Department opens housing choice voucher portal Sept. 12
With a voucher, participants are free to choose their own housing in the private rental market, city officials say, point out about 30% of monthly income toward rent and utilities whereas the program pays the difference to the landlord.
During the pre-application opening period, anyone interested in joining the waitlist may apply. Applicants will be asked to provide standard household information such as mailing address, email, phone number, information on their household members, and total household income. Social security numbers and citizenship or immigration status are not required for the pre-application. There is no cost to apply for or to receive a voucher.
“We want to make this process as easy and accessible as possible for our residents,” said Elenia Sotelo, Phoenix Housing manager. “We know there are a lot of community members who need assistance affording a safe place to call home, and we want to make sure those renters learn about this opportunity and submit a pre-application to join the waitlist.”
After the 15-day opening period, all pre-applications received will be electronically randomized for placement on the waitlist, City Hall officials say.
Placement is not first come, first served. Once the waitlist is established, applicants can check their status and ensure their contact information is maintained up to date to receive communication about the HCV program.
Of Note: Full program eligibility will be verified when the applicant is selected from the waitlist as vouchers become available.
