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

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.