The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is expanding the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program this month, distributing 60,000 new vouchers to Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) across the country. It’s one of the largest expansions in over a decade and is aimed at supporting low-income renters amid rising housing costs.
What’s Happening in June?
HUD is sending 60,000+ vouchers to PHAs nationwide.
Targeted cities include both large metros (like New York City and Chicago) and mid-size cities like Rochester and Buffalo, New York.
Priority is being given to low-income families, retirees, people with disabilities, veterans, and those facing homelessness or eviction.
Who Qualifies?
To be eligible for Section 8, your income must fall below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI). You must also be a U.S. citizen or have eligible immigration status.
Additional priority groups include:
- Families with children
- Older people (62+)
- Individuals with disabilities
- Veterans
- People transitioning from homelessness or domestic violence shelters
Some PHAs may have additional local preferences.
Where and When to Apply
Several cities have already opened their waitlists for June:
New York City
Open in June through a public lottery via the NYCHA website.
Buffalo & Rochester, NY
Expected openings throughout June. Monitor PHA websites for announcements.
Chicago, IL
Accepting applications online through June.
Phoenix, AZ
Rolling intake periods continue throughout June.
Application windows vary by city—check with your local housing authority or use the HUD PHA locator.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step
- Use HUD’s PHA locator to find your local housing authority.
- Check if their waitlist is open—many use brief application windows or lotteries.
- Gather your documentation: income proof, IDs, and details about your household.
- Apply through your PHA’s official method (online, mail, or in-person).
- Confirm your submission and follow up regularly.
Tips to Boost Your Chances
- Apply to multiple PHAs where permitted.
- Stay organized and ready to upload paperwork quickly.
- Only use official .gov websites or verified PHA domains to avoid scams.
- Sign up for alerts or newsletters from your local PHA to catch openings fast.
Why This Matters
This surge in Section 8 vouchers is a response to record-high rent costs and housing instability across the U.S. The goal is to prevent homelessness, support low-income renters, and improve housing access.
With more than 60,000 vouchers now being issued, thousands of households will gain access to stable, subsidized housing—if they act quickly.
What Happens Next?
- Vouchers will continue rolling out through June and early July 2025.
- PHAs may open new waitlists or lotteries based on funding.
- Budget proposals for 2026 may impact future voucher levels—another reason to apply now.
