There are five basic human needs, including a safe living place. Unfortunately, many people can’t afford decent accommodation. Therefore, the US government has designed a visionary program called Section 8 housing. Michigan is also a beneficiary of this program.
So, what is Section 8 housing in Michigan? This program helps low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities find affordable and safe places to live. It’s funded by the federal government and managed by local public housing agencies (PHAs).
Qualified applicants receive a housing voucher, which covers a portion of their rent. Then, they can live in private places that meet safety standards.
However, there are still many things to know, like your income level, how to qualify for Section 8 housing, and so on. Let’s finish reading the article and find an effective solution for your living.
Eligibility of Section 8 Housing in Michigan
Several factors satisfy Section 8 housing requirements in Michigan. The most important factor is your earnings. Your household’s annual income can not exceed the low-income limit set for Michigan.
Here is a table showing the income limits for major metro areas in Michigan:
Family Size | Income Limit |
1 | $19,150 |
2 | $21,900 |
3 | $24,650 |
4 | $27,350 |
5 | $29,550 |
6 | $31,750 |
7 | $33,950 |
8 | $36,150 |
Keep in mind that income limits may vary depending on the program and funding source used for the Section 8 voucher. Moreover, the income limit update isn’t fixed. It may change according to the government’s decision at any time.
Additional eligibility requirements include:
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- All household members need to be U.S. citizens or documented permanent residents.
- A clean criminal record is required for adults with no sexual or drug offenses.
- A positive rental history must be proven by contact with current and past landlords.
However, aged households or disabled persons may get priority when applying for section 8. Also, your application is urgently treated if you are homeless or have been forcefully displaced.
For MSHDA Housing Choice Voucher program participants, maintaining an earned income of at least $15,000 and working 30 hours per week is required.
The good part is that there are exceptions for elderly or disabled persons. Applicants must also be first-time homeowners or not have owned a home in the past three years.
How Can You Get Section 8 Housing in Michigan?
The process of getting Section 8 housing in Michigan is pretty straightforward. All you need to do is just go through some legal steps. Here is a detailed process of how to apply for Section 8 housing.
Step 1: Submit an Application
Your first and foremost responsibility is to locate your area’s Public Housing Agency (PHA) office. They require pre-applying to their waitlist. If your local waitlist is closed, consider a nearby location. Keep in mind that you must live in the place where you apply for help.
When applying, describe your income, assets, and household size. You may also need to submit documents like pay stubs and birth certificates. You can apply online at the MSHDA website or get a paper form at your local office.
However, it’s okay to apply for multiple waitlists. Michigan has 114 housing waitlists for the applicants. So, the more pre-apply you do, the more chance of being selected.
Step 2: Get on the Waiting List
After you submit your application, MSHDA will review it to check your eligibility. If there isn’t immediate funding available, you will be placed on the Section 8 housing waiting list.
The wait time can vary based on your area and the number of applicants. Once you’re on the waiting list, you’ll need to wait for your name to be selected.
When that happens, follow the instructions provided by the PHA office. Complete the application quickly and provide all requested documents. The sooner you finish, the faster you can move into your new home.
Step 3: Receive a Housing Voucher
You will receive a housing voucher once your name is selected from the waiting list. This voucher is your key to finding a new place to live.
Now, you must find a home that meets the PHA’s requirements. You will have a specific time frame for using your voucher, so act quickly.
Step 4: Sign the Lease and Move In
After finding a suitable home, you’ll sign the lease with your landlord. Once everything is in order, you can officially move in!
Remember to provide your PHA office with a copy of the signed lease. This step is essential to ensure you resume to receive housing assistance. Also, keep in touch with your PHA office for any updates or guidance during the process.
Benefits of Section 8 Housing
There are unimaginable advantages of Section 8 housing vouchers. It’s a smart solution for your accommodation problem. Let’s know some mentionable benefits.
Reduced Rental Costs
Section 8 housing helps lower rental costs by covering a portion of your rent. It makes housing more affordable for low-income families.
You only have to pay 30% of your monthly income toward rent, while the voucher covers the rest. This way, you can save money for other needs.
Increased Housing Stability
Section 8 housing also provides families with more stability. Rental assistance helps protect against sudden rent increases and the risk of displacement.
Moreover, this advantage provides a secure home environment. Therefore, families can focus on other vital areas like work and education without worrying about losing their housing.
Access to Quality Housing
Families can access better-quality homes through this program. It allows them to choose from a variety of safe and well-maintained properties.
This means they have more opportunities to live in good neighborhoods with better schools, healthcare, and other essential services.
Support for Vulnerable Groups
This program gives seniors, people with disabilities, and low-income families the most priority. It provides these groups with affordable housing options. So, they have a minimum risk of homelessness.
Besides, they can focus on their health, well-being, and other essential needs with this stable housing facility. Therefore, they can maintain a decent quality of life.
How Long Does it Take to Get Approved for Section 8 in Michigan?
The time it takes to get approved for Section 8 in Michigan can vary. The Section 8 housing application process usually takes several weeks to several months.
Several factors can affect this, such as the number of applications received, available funding, and the completeness of the application.
To speed things up, ensure your application is complete and all documents are provided. If a single part of your application process is faulty, you may face a long waiting period, which isn’t convenient for you.
What to Do If You’re Not on the Waiting List?
Your name might be missing from the final list even after doing everything perfectly. Don’t worry; if you don’t qualify for the Section 8 waiting list, there are other options.
Check out Michigan’s other homeownership assistance programs through MSHDA. These programs help low-income families buy a home.
However, you’ll need a decent credit score to qualify. You can also check for subsidized apartment rentals on the HUD website. Another option is to look for public housing opportunities with MSHDA.
This can provide temporary support while you desire other solutions. If you need further help, contacting house rental experts can help you find affordable housing options.
Last Words
Now you know about what Section 8 housing is in Michigan. Since everyone deserves a safe and affordable place to live, this program is a blessing for a group of people. Consider applying if you’re struggling to pay rent or looking for safer housing.
Remember, there are specific criteria for who qualifies for Section 8 housing. So, it’s necessary to check your eligibility before applying.
If you don’t qualify, there are still other resources available. Contact your local housing authority for guidance throughout the process.