Everyone deserves a safe, affordable place to call home. For people with disabilities, the Section 811 program makes this possible through specialized housing vouchers and support services. The Section 811 program is part of HUD's broader efforts to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal access to housing and the necessary support for independent living.
Table of Contents
- What are Section 811 vouchers?
- What type of assistance does a Section 811 voucher give?
- Who is eligible for a Section 811 voucher?
- How long does it take to get a Section 811 voucher?
- What types of properties are eligible for Section 811?
- Are there housing quality requirements for a Section 811 voucher?
- Advantages of Section 811 vouchers for people with disabilities
- How to overcome Section 811 application challenges
- FAQ: Section 811 vouchers
- What can I do with a Section 811 voucher?
- How are Section 811 vouchers unique?
- Can you lose a Section 811 voucher?
- How long can I have a Section 811 voucher?
- How is “disabled” defined by HUD?
- What types of housing can I use a Section 811 voucher for?
- Can family members live with me if I have a Section 811 voucher?
- What happens if I move to a different area?
- Resources for Section 811 vouchers
What are Section 811 vouchers?
This Section 811 initiative focuses on developing and subsidizing rental housing, which is complemented by the availability of supportive services. The overarching purpose of the Section 811 program is to empower persons with disabilities to live as independently as possible within their communities.
By providing subsidies for rental housing, the program facilitates access to housing opportunities that are not only affordable but also connected to essential support tailored to meet the unique needs of the residents. These services can include healthcare, transportation, and educational resources.
What type of assistance does a Section 811 voucher give?
Rental Support: The core of the Section 811 program is its rental subsidy voucher, which reduces the amount of rent that a participant needs to pay each month. The voucher generally covers the difference between the tenant's contribution (usually around 30% of their income) and the actual rent charged.
Housing Choice Flexibility: Participants can use the voucher to find their preferred type of housing, including:
- Apartments
- Townhouses
- Single-family homes
- Other properties that meet HUD’s safety and quality standards
**Important:
The landlord must agree to participate in the program and the unit must pass HUD inspection.
Property Development Support: In addition, federal funds are made available to nonprofit organizations or sponsors to help support the development of appropriate housing for low-income individuals with disabilities. As long as the properties are available for use by these select individuals for a period of 40 years, this capital advance does not need to be repaid to the government.
Support Services: While the primary function of the Section 811 voucher is to provide financial assistance for housing, it often comes with access to supportive services for residents as well. Healthcare assistance, transportation, and educational programs are provided to help participants live independently in the community.
Who is eligible for a Section 811 voucher?
Eligibility for Section 811 vouchers is specifically tailored for very low-income adults with disabilities. The key criteria for eligibility include:
| Eligibility Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Disability Status | The individual must have a disability, which includes various types of physical and mental impairments that substantially limit one or more major life activities. |
| Income Limits | Applicants must fall within the very low-income or extremely low-income brackets as defined by HUD, varying by location and family size. |
| Age Requirements | Primarily targeted at adults with disabilities, typically those who are 18 years or older. |
| Citizenship Status | Applicants must be U.S. citizens or be legal immigrants. |
| Other HUD Requirements | Applicants must meet additional criteria set by HUD and the local public housing agency, which can include background checks and other program-specific requirements. |
Learn more about what disqualifies applicants from public housing.
Where can I apply for Section 811?
Interested participants can apply for a Section 811 voucher only when there is a Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) given by HUD. This is often posted on Grants.gov, but HUD will also provide updates on this page.
If funding is available, the best course of action is to contact your local Public Housing Agency (PHA) and get more application information. If you are willing to move, you can actually apply at more than one PHA, which can increase your chances of being accepted.
The Section 811 voucher application process
The application process may differ between PHA locations, but each will typically require specific documentation and a series of steps.
Required Documents
You’ll need to provide:
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Proof of disability (medical documentation, SSI/SSDI award letters, etc.)
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Photo ID
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Birth certificate
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Social Security card
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Income verification (pay stubs, benefit letters, bank statements)
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Past rental history
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List of current medications and healthcare providers (if applying for properties with supportive services)
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Names and contact information for professional references
Application Steps
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Find Opportunities
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Contact your local Public Housing Authority (PHA)
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Submit Application
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Complete all required forms
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Provide documentation
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Get confirmation of submission
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Wait List Period
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Keep contact info current
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Respond to all PHA communications
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Ask about wait list status
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After Selection
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Complete eligibility interview
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Attend voucher briefing
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Begin housing search
How long does it take to get a Section 811 voucher?
While the timeframe can differ between locations, it may take anywhere from three months to a year to receive approval on a Section 811 voucher.
Upon submission, the application must be carefully reviewed and there may be some requests for additional information or documentation. The availability of vouchers may also fluctuate, so approved persons often get placed on a waiting list until something becomes available.
What types of properties are eligible for Section 811?
Eligible properties under the Section 811 program can vary in type. They may be:
- Newly constructed buildings
- Rehabilitated properties
- Existing properties
Whether they are owned by public entities, nonprofit organizations, or private owners, they must meet several critical requirements.
Minimum unit count
Each property must have a minimum of five housing units, ensuring a sufficient scale to support the program's objectives. Not all units must be designated for Section 811. For example, this could include a 12-unit building with 3 units designated for Section 811 or a 60-unit complex with 15 units for the program.
Use restrictions considerations
Properties with existing use restrictions specifically for people with disabilities may face eligibility limitations, requiring careful review. Examples of such use restrictions could include a building required to serve only veterans with disabilities or housing designated for mental health program participants.
Diverse financing sources
Properties should have financing or capital investment from various programs. These could include federal, state, or local sources such as:
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Rural housing and other similar capital funding sources
Exclusion of other subsidies
Eligible units within the property should not already have project-based operating housing subsidies or have had long-term subsidies attached previously. This ensures that the Section 811 support is directed to units that lack other forms of substantial assistance.
Age restrictions
Projects exclusively restricted to persons aged 62 years and older are not eligible for the Section 811 PRA Program. This stipulation aligns the program with its broader objective of serving adults with disabilities of varying ages.
Are there housing quality requirements for a Section 811 voucher?
As with most federally-supported housing assistance programs, specific requirements must be met for a residence to qualify under the Section 811 voucher program. These criteria are in place to ensure that the housing is safe, decent, and suitable for the needs of individuals with disabilities. Here are the key elements each property must meet:
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Basic Safety: The unit must meet HUD's Housing Quality Standards, which cover aspects like sanitary facilities, food preparation areas, heating and cooling, electrical and plumbing systems, and the overall condition of the unit.
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Accessibility: The residence should be accessible or adaptable to meet the specific needs of the individual. This can include features like wheelchair ramps, grab bars in bathrooms, or other modifications to accommodate mobility or sensory impairments.
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Size and Space Requirements: The unit must be appropriate in size relative to the family composition. HUD guidelines typically specify the number of bedrooms and the space needed based on the number of occupants.
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Rent Standards: The rent for the unit must be reasonable compared to similar units in the area. PHAs typically conduct a rent reasonableness assessment to ensure that landlords are charging fair market rates.
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Location: While individuals with Section 811 vouchers have the flexibility to choose their housing, the location should be such that it allows easy access to necessary services and amenities, including healthcare, transportation, and social services.
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Landlord Responsibility: The landlord must agree to participate in the Section 811 program. This involves accepting the voucher, agreeing to the terms of the program, and passing the required housing inspections.
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Lease Agreement Requirements: The tenant must have a lease that provides the same rights and responsibilities as any standard rental agreement. This includes terms about rent, maintenance, and other standard lease conditions.
Before moving into a new unit with a Section 811 voucher, the PHA will inspect the property to ensure it meets these criteria. It's important for individuals using these vouchers to communicate their specific needs to both the PHA and potential landlords to find the most suitable housing solution.
Advantages of Section 811 vouchers for people with disabilities
Finding affordable, accessible housing can be one of the biggest challenges for people with disabilities. Section 811 vouchers open doors to independence and long-term stability. Here are some of the key advantages.
Financial benefits
The most immediate benefit of Section 811 vouchers is significant financial relief. You'll pay only 30% of your income toward rent, making housing truly affordable. Utility costs may be included in your voucher, further reducing out-of-pocket expenses. Many participants find they can finally save money for other needs once their housing costs are stabilized.
Housing choice
Unlike some housing programs that tie you to specific buildings, Section 811 vouchers let you find housing that best fits your needs. You can live in an apartment, townhouse, or single-family home, as long as the landlord accepts the voucher and the unit meets quality standards. If your needs change, you can move to a new location while keeping your assistance.
Support services
Beyond housing, Section 811 connects you with vital support services. Individuals have access to healthcare coordination to help manage medical appointments and treatments. Transportation assistance makes it easier to get to appointments and run errands. Life skills training and educational programs can help you build independence and achieve personal goals.
Long-term stability
Perhaps most importantly, Section 811 vouchers provide long-term housing stability. Your rental assistance continues as long as you remain eligible, giving you peace of mind about your housing costs. This stability often leads to better health outcomes and increased independence.
How to overcome Section 811 application challenges
Section 811 vouchers provide incredibly valuable benefits, but the path to receiving one isn’t always straightforward. It’s common to feel overwhelmed by waiting lists, requirements, and paperwork. These challenges can be overcome with the right approach.
Long waiting lists
The reality is that many Section 811 programs have waiting lists. It’s best to:
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Apply to multiple housing authorities to increase your chances. Some areas have preferences that might move you up the list, such as if you're at risk of homelessness or leaving an institution.
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Stay in regular contact with the housing authority. This is to check your status and show your continued interest.
Collecting documentation
Gathering required documents can feel overwhelming, but breaking it into smaller tasks helps:
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Start with your personal identification documents like ID and Social Security card.
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Then move on to income verification and medical documentation.
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Create a simple filing system—even a folder with labeled sections will help keep everything organized.
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Make copies of everything you submit.
The application process
The application process may seem complex, but help is available. Disability organizations and housing counselors can guide you through each step. If you need accommodations to complete the application, don't hesitate to ask. Many housing authorities can provide forms in alternative formats or allow someone to help you fill them out.
Finding available housing
Once you have a voucher, finding the right unit takes strategy:
- Start your search early (you typically have 60 days to use your voucher once issued).
- Work with local housing counselors who know which landlords accept vouchers.
- Consider properties in various neighborhoods to expand your options.
Remember, accessibility features can be added to units through reasonable accommodation requests.
Communication or accessibility barriers
Disability challenges shouldn’t prevent you from accessing housing. Bring a trusted friend or advocate to meetings if needed. Request interpreters or other communication accommodations—it's your right. Keep written records of all communications and ask for important information in writing. If something isn't clear, ask for clarification until you understand fully.
FAQ: Section 811 vouchers
What can I do with a Section 811 voucher?
A Section 811 voucher provides rental assistance for low-income individuals with disabilities. This voucher helps cover a part of the rent, making housing affordable and accessible. It can be used in participating housing units that meet the program’s standards.
How are Section 811 vouchers unique?
Unlike standard housing vouchers, Section 811 is specifically designed for adults with disabilities. This program not only assists with rent but also encourages independent living and offers access to supportive services.
Can you lose a Section 811 voucher?
Yes, you can lose eligibility for a Section 811 voucher if your income level rises above the program's threshold, you violate lease terms, or you fail to comply with program requirements. It's important to stay informed about the rules and maintain eligibility criteria. Find the latest HUD eligibility information to stay up to date.
How long can I have a Section 811 voucher?
There is no fixed time limit for holding a Section 811 voucher as long as you remain eligible. Eligibility is typically reassessed annually, and as long as you meet the criteria, you can continue to benefit from the program.
How is “disabled” defined by HUD?
The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) defines “disabled” for the purposes of Section 811 as an individual with a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. This definition is broad and includes a range of disabilities.
What types of housing can I use a Section 811 voucher for?
Vouchers can be used for apartments, townhouses, and single-family homes that meet HUD's standards and with landlord participation.
Can family members live with me if I have a Section 811 voucher?
Family members can live with you, but the voucher typically only covers the eligible individual's portion of the rent.
What happens if I move to a different area?
Vouchers can be transferred under the program's portability feature, but you must follow the procedures for transferring to a new location.
Resources for Section 811 vouchers
Related Housing Guides:
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Disability Rights in Housing Guide
Government resources for Section 811 vouchers
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HUD Section 811 Program Office
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Services: Program guidelines, application procedures, local office connections, eligibility verification
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Services: Housing transition support, community living assistance, accessibility guidance
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Services: Disability coverage, service provider connections, benefits planning
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Services: Home modifications, support services, care coordination
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Social Security Administration Disability Office
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Services: Benefits verification, income documentation, representative payee services
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Non-profit and advocacy resources for Section 811 vouchers
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Centers for Independent Living (CILs)
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Services: Housing search assistance, advocacy, life skills training, peer support
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Services: Application help, housing search, community support, family resources
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National Disability Rights Network
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Services: Housing discrimination advocacy, rights education, complaint assistance
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National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Housing Resources
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Services: Housing navigation, support groups, crisis assistance, education
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Legal resources for Section 811 vouchers
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Disability Rights Legal Centers
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Services: Fair housing advocacy, discrimination claims, accommodation requests
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Services: Discrimination complaints, investigation assistance, mediation
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Services: Tenant rights education, lease review, legal guidance
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Key Tips for Using These Resources
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Keep your disability documentation current and readily available.
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Apply to multiple housing authorities to increase your chances.
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Request reasonable accommodations when needed during the application process.
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Connect with local advocacy organizations for application assistance.
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Don't wait to get on waiting lists - apply as soon as possible.
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Keep copies of all submitted documents and correspondence.
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Stay in regular contact.
