HUD Housing Network has announced 4 Section 8 Waiting List Openings so far for May 2025. This update highlights openings in Pennsylvania, Texas, Georgia, and New Jersey, providing an opportunity for families and individuals in need of affordable housing.
Pennsylvania
Lycoming Housing Authority
- Program: Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher
- Opening Date: May 12, 2025
- Closing Date: May 26, 2025
- More Information: Lycoming Housing Authority Website
- Additional Details: HUD Housing Network - Lycoming Housing Authority
This two-week application period provides a good opportunity for Lycoming County residents to secure housing assistance.
Texas
Houston Housing Authority
- Program: Section 8 Project-Based Voucher
- Status: Currently Open
- Closing Date: May 16, 2025
- How to Apply: Houston Housing Authority Portal
- More Information: Housing for Houston Rent Cafe
- Additional Details: HUD Housing Network - Houston Housing Authority
The Houston Housing Authority notes that PBV waiting lists often have shorter wait times than the regular HCV program.
Georgia
Housing Authority of DeKalb County
- Program: Section 8 Project-Based Voucher
- Status: Currently Open
- Closing Date: Until Further Notice
- How to Apply: DeKalb Housing PBV Waiting List
- More Information: DeKalb Housing PBV Program
- Additional Details: HUD Housing Network - DeKalb County Housing Authority
This housing authority has not formally announced a closing date for this waiting list.
New Jersey
Jersey City Housing Authority
- Programs:
- Section 8 Project-Based Vouchers
- Public Housing
- Mainstream Vouchers
- Opening Date: May 19, 2025
- How to Apply: Jersey City Housing Portal
- More Information: Jersey City Housing Authority Website
- Additional Details: HUD Housing Network - Jersey City Housing Authority
Jersey City's multiple waiting list openings provide diverse options for housing assistance.
Understanding Different Housing Programs
Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV)
- Portable rental assistance
- Choose your own housing in the private market
- Pay approximately 30% of income toward rent
Project-Based Vouchers (PBV)
- Tied to specific properties
- Often shorter waiting times
- No portability to other locations
- May include additional services
Mainstream Vouchers
- Specifically for non-elderly persons with disabilities
- Similar to regular HCVs but with specialized eligibility
- Targeted assistance for a specific population
Public Housing
- Government-owned properties
- Fixed locations
- Income-based rent calculations
Tips for Applying
-
Prepare Documentation:
- Photo identification
- Social Security cards
- Birth certificates
- Proof of income
- Current contact information
- Disability verification (if applicable)
-
Application Strategy:
- Apply early in the opening period
- Consider applying to multiple programs
- Read all eligibility requirements carefully
- Keep track of confirmation numbers
- Save copies of submissions
-
Follow Up:
- Keep contact information current
- Document submission dates
- Check application status when possible
Benefits of Project-Based Vouchers
Many of this month's openings are for Project-Based Vouchers, which offer several advantages:
-
Shorter Wait Times:
- Often less competition than Housing Choice Vouchers
- Specific to certain properties
- May have multiple openings at once
-
Ready-to-Move Properties:
- Pre-approved units
- Known locations and amenities
- Often well-maintained
-
Stability:
- Fixed locations with ongoing assistance
- Consistent housing costs
- Community environment
Conclusion
These Section 8 and other housing assistance waiting list openings across Pennsylvania, Texas, Georgia, and New Jersey represent significant opportunities for individuals and families seeking affordable housing. With varying application periods and program types, it's important to understand the differences and requirements for each.
Whether you're seeking a Housing Choice Voucher in Lycoming County, a Project-Based Voucher in Houston or DeKalb County, or exploring multiple options in Jersey City, these programs can substantially reduce housing costs by limiting rent to approximately 30% of household income. Stay proactive, be prepared, and good luck with your housing search!