What is a Housing Choice Voucher (HCV)?

A Section 8: Housing Choice Voucher program assists very low-income families, disabled persons, and the elderly with finding safe, affordable, and accessible housing in the private market. With an HCV, eligible participants are able to find their own housing that meets the requirements of the voucher. This means participants are able to choose single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments that fall within the requirements of the program. Participants are not required to live in public housing already subsidized. Housing choice vouchers are received by the Housing Authority of the City of Lubbock and are funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. When you are issued an HCV, you are responsible for finding suitable housing that meets the requirements and where the owner agrees to rent under the program. In some cases, this even includes your current residence. Rental units are required to meet the minimum health and safety standards determined by the Housing Authority of the City of Lubbock.

HCV Eligibility

Your eligibility for an HCV is determined by the Housing Authority of the City of Lubbock. It is based on your annual gross income and family size. HCVs are limited to U.S. citizens as well as specified non-citizens with eligible immigration status. Generally your income cannot exceed 50 percent of the county or metropolitan area’s median income. The Housing Authority is required by law to provide 75 percent of its voucher to applicants whose incomes do not exceed 30 percent of the area median income (https://www.hud.gov/topics/housing_choice_voucher_program_section_8). When you apply for a Section 8: Housing Choice Voucher, the Housing Authority of Lubbock will collect information on your income, assets, and family makeup. Once this information is verified, we will use your information to determine your eligibility as well as the amount of housing assistance you may receive.

Looking for
your future home?

The Housing Authority of the City of Lubbock offers Affordable Housing Assistance to all that qualify.