The Delaware Guide to Section 8 Housing

Finding an affordable place to live can be tough for Delaware families. Section 8 Housing, also known as the Housing Choice Voucher Program, helps by providing financial assistance with paying rent.

Section 8 in Delaware is available, but understanding who is eligible and knowing where to apply can be confusing. This guide answers frequently asked questions and provides information potential applicants need to take the next steps.

What Is Section 8 Housing in Delaware?

Section 8 is an initiative the federal government designed to help low-income individuals and families find safe places to live. Named after section 8 of the U.S. Housing Act of 1937, this program meets the needs of those who cannot afford the soaring rental prices that exist in many parts of the state.

Through Section 8, participants receive monthly coupons that they can use to help pay rent on the qualifying house or apartment of their choice. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 5,771 Delaware families use this program to live in homes they otherwise may not be able to afford.

What Is the Most Section 8 Will Pay in Delaware?

To determine how much Section 8 in Delaware will pay, HUD establishes fair market rent values every year. These FMRs reflect the cost of renting a moderately priced unit in a particular area. The average cost of rent in Delaware is $1,308 per month but this amount varies depending on the specific area of the state, the size of the rental unit, and other factors.

As a general guideline, spending more than 30% of household income on rent creates financial hardship. Therefore, vouchers often pay the remaining amount after a family has contributed up to 30%.

Certain dollar amounts are also deducted for each person in the home, further lowering the amount a family must pay. In some cases, the program sets a maximum family contribution at 10% of their income, a welfare rent amount, or another minimum amount, such as $50 for rent and utilities.

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What are the Delaware Section 8 Housing Requirements?

To qualify for Section 8 in Delaware, individuals and families must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Meet HUD’s definition of a family
• Earn below a certain income
• Be U.S. citizens or non-citizens with documented eligibility
• Have Social Security numbers for everyone in the home
• Allow the housing authority to collect information
• Show a history of acceptable behavior

Some PHAs, including the Newark Housing Authority, may also conduct a background check and credit report on everyone in the home.

What are the Income Limits for Housing Assistance Programs in Delaware?

The median monthly income across Delaware is $6,610 but it varies by region. The federal government considers households with incomes below 80% of the median to be lower income and eligible for Section 8. However, the majority of vouchers each year go to those earning less than 30% of the median income in the region.

The number and demographics of people in the household also affect the income limits and the value of the housing voucher. For example, a family with children, senior citizens, or disabled people may have a different income limit than a family of young adults without disabilities.

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How Long Does it Take to Get Approved for Section 8 in Delaware?

The approval timeline for Section 8 in Delaware varies based on factors such as housing demand in a specific area and the efficiency of the local PHA. After applying, qualified individuals and families are on a waiting list, and the duration on this list can fluctuate. Some area waiting lists include thousands of families.

Upon acceptance, applicants attend information sessions about the program. They then have 60 days to find a suitable house or apartment and seek approval from HUD. The overall process timeline can differ significantly from one jurisdiction to another.

How To Qualify for Section 8 in Delaware

Qualifying for Section 8 in Delaware involves meeting specific criteria related to financial situation, location and family circumstances. The Wilmington Housing Authority states they give preference to families whose declared head or co-head of household has one or more of the following characteristics:

• Elderly
• Disabled
• Working at least part-time
• Homeless and living in a verified shelter

They also show preference to families who lost their homes in a federally declared disaster and youth aging out of foster care. However, these characteristics are not requirements.

How To Apply for Section 8 Housing in Delaware

In most locations, people can fill out a preliminary application for Section 8 in Delaware by calling or visiting the nearest housing authority. Housing authorities in some areas also have online applications. Before beginning the paperwork, applicants should have the following information ready for each member of the household: 

• Date of birth
• Social security number
• Annual gross income from all sources
• Citizenship status

Once officials at the housing authority have reviewed the pre-application, they may ask applicants to verify that the information they provided is true by showing documentation. They also may conduct a home visit and interview members of the family.

Can I Transfer my Section 8 Voucher to Delaware?

Section 8 participants can transfer their vouchers to Delaware from another state through a process known as portability. However, the transfer requires coordination with both the current public housing authority and the desired one in Delaware. It is necessary to confirm the feasibility of the transfer before planning to move, as not all areas may have the capacity to accept portable vouchers.

To initiate the transfer, participants should communicate with both housing authorities, ensuring a smooth transition of housing benefits while relocating to a different jurisdiction.

Can I Buy a House with a Section 8 Voucher in Delaware?

While most people use Section 8 in Delaware for help paying their rent, the Housing Choice Voucher Homeownership Option does allow some participants in Delaware the opportunity to use their vouchers toward homeownership.

To qualify for this option, individuals must meet the following requirements:

• Earn a minimum amount of money per year
• Work at least 30 hours per week for at least one year unless elderly or disabled
• Attend approved education and counseling sessions about homeownership
• Have not owned a home within three years or previously defaulted on the program
• Meet local rules, such as minimum savings or credit score

Interested individuals should consult with their local housing authority for detailed requirements and guidance on using Section 8 vouchers for homeownership.

What Are the Public Housing Authorities in Delaware?

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Public housing authorities are local or regional agencies that operate within cities, counties, or regions. They focus on providing affordable housing solutions at the local level and may have their own programs and policies tailored to the needs of their communities. They rely on a combination of federal, state, and local funding.

The five following public housing authorities administer Section 8 in Delaware:

• Delaware
• Dover
• Newark
• New Castle County
• Wilmington

The Delaware Public Housing Authority serves Sussex County and the areas of Kent County outside the city limits of Dover.

Delaware Waiting List for Section 8 Housing

When the number of families who need housing is greater than the number of vouchers available, officials place new applicants on a waiting list. The time and date a family submits their application determines their position on the list.

When an application is at the top of the waiting list, the housing authority contacts the applicants to set up an in-person appointment. At this appointment, applicants must provide documents to verify the information they provided and sign an agreement to receive the vouchers. The applicants must also undergo a background check at this time.

Most local housing authorities only accept applications when there is room on the waiting list. When the waiting list is open, housing authorities let the public know by advertising in the classified section of the local newspaper or posting the information on their website.

Is Emergency Housing Assistance Available in Delaware?

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Because of the time it takes for approval, Section 8 is not the best option for emergency housing. However, the state does have other resources to help people find places to stay in times of crisis.

State service centers provide funds to non-profit organizations that provide emergency shelters and transitional housing. Residents can also dial 211 on their phones to speak with trained professionals who can guide them to the appropriate services.

How To Stay Informed About Section 8 in Delaware

Receiving housing assistance demands understanding the eligibility criteria, income limits, application processes and the role of public housing authorities. Our information further empowers individuals and families by keeping them aware of waiting list openings so that they do not miss a chance to apply for Section 8 in Delaware.