For more information, click on the questions below:

What are tenant-based vouchers?

Section 8, MRVP, and AHVP tenant-based vouchers are rent vouchers that let people choose their own housing anywhere they want to live. They are different from project-based vouchers and public housing, where people have to live in particular housing developments. Families with tenant-based vouchers can choose any apartment they want, as long as the rent is reasonable and the unit is safe and clean. If the family moves, the rental assistance goes with them.

Am I eligible?

To be eligible for Section 8, MRVP, or AHVP vouchers, your household's income cannot be greater than the income limits for the program. Once you get a voucher and find an apartment, the landlord will check with the housing agency and your previous landlords to make sure that you will be a good tenant.

Eligibility Check

The Rental Assistance Eligibility Check is an easy way for you to find out if you are likely to qualify for tenant-based vouchers, by answering questions online about your family, your income, and your expenses. You will see the results of the eligibility check right away, on your computer screen.

What rent will I pay?

The rent you will pay depends on your household income, your expenses, your household size, and the rental unit you choose. Generally, households with vouchers pay about 30% of their net monthly income for rent.

How do I apply?

You can apply for tenant-based vouchers at public housing agencies or approved regional nonprofit housing agencies. For contact information, see:

• Massachusetts Public Housing Agencies (PHAs)
• Regional Nonprofit Housing Agencies
• or call the Massachusetts Housing Consumer Education Centers toll-free at 1-800-224-5124

After a quick check of your eligibility, your name will be put on a waiting list. If you are in a preference category, you will move ahead of others on the waiting list. It may take two years or more to get a voucher.

How do I use my voucher?

Once you get a voucher, you must find a rental unit that meets the program requirements. The rental unit must be clean and safe, affordable, and the right size for your family. If you do not find housing within a certain amount of time, you will lose your voucher. If you want to move to a different city or town, you can usually take your voucher with you.

Family Self-Sufficiency Program

The Family Self-Sufficiency Program is a voluntary five-year program for families with Section 8 vouchers. The program helps families become financially independent through education and job training. The program also helps families save money for a house, a car, college, or any other purpose.

Landlord's Guide to Section 8

A landlord who rents to a Section 8 tenant must follow certain procedures. The landlord must screen the tenant, get approval from Section 8, pass an apartment inspection, sign a lease with the tenant, and sign a contract with Section 8. The rent must be reasonable compared to other rents in the community. The tenant pays a portion of the rent, and Section 8 pays the rest.

Useful links

Links to other web sites with information about Section 8, MRVP, and AHVP tenant-based vouchers.

Section 8, MRVP, and AHVP Tenant-based Vouchers section last updated on 4/22/10