The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) uses the Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers program to subsidize the private market rents of low-income families. The program uses several criteria, primarily income and household size, to restrict program access and determine the amount of the subsidy. If you are in the Section 8 program, it is imperative that you report any changes that impact your standing.
Step 1
Contact the public housing agency (PHA) that administers the Section 8 program in your area. This is most often the same entity that issued you your Section 8 voucher in the first place. If you cannot locate your agency's contact information, you can search for it at HUD's website.
Step 2
Notify your PHA of any key changes to your household or financial situation that may impact your program status. If you are unsure about a change, call your PHA and ask whether they need to know about it. For instance, as the Code of Federal Regulations indicates, you must let your PHA know if a family member moves out of your unit. As your household size changes, so does your income eligibility for Section 8 assistance.
Step 3
Bring requested documents to your PHA office. For example, if your income increases or decreases, your PHA will likely want to see proof in the form of a letter from your employer, a paycheck stub or another financial document. Follow your PHA's instructions in this regard.