AffordableHousingOnline

Affordable Housing Online is monitoring the federal government's response to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak. As of March 13, 2020, Public Housing Agencies across the nation are closing their doors to the public. Most offices are still running and will communicate by phone, email, or mail. Some offices have drop boxes installed outside, so documents can still be hand-delivered. Visit the housing authority's website for the latest on its current operations, if one is available. If there is no information online, contact the housing authority directly. Due to a high volume of calls and modified office hours in most areas, expect a long wait time (days or weeks) for a response. To find your local PHA's contact info, browse by state here.

An extensive list of coronavirus resources for low-income households can be found here.

View Affordable Housing Online's Resource for Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Are Section 8 vouchers being issued by housing authorities in the middle of the coronavirus pandemic?

Answer

If a Public Housing Agency (aka, housing authority) was issuing new Section 8 vouchers before the COVID-19 crisis, it may try to continue doing so; but most PHAs have suspended the issuance of new vouchers. This applies to the following voucher programs:

  • Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher
  • Mainstream Voucher
  • Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH) Voucher

A PHA may use its ability to extend the expiration date of that voucher. Vouchers can be extended to 120 days or more, if deemed necessary.

If you have recently been issued a new voucher and are having a hard time finding a new unit, don’t assume the PHA has suspended or extended the time on the voucher. Contact the PHA before the original expiration date of the voucher to request an extension.

For specific information about how your PHA is proceeding with the issuance of vouchers, also contact your PHA.

More FAQs from Low Income Households

  • Can I be evicted if I can't pay rent because of coronavirus?
  • Are housing authorities still open during the coronavirus outbreak?
  • Do I have to do anything if I’m on a rental subsidy program and become unemployed or lose hours from coronavirus?
  • What is the government stimulus payment?
  • Who qualifies for the government stimulus payment?