The Maryland Guide to Section 8 Housing

For low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities, Section 8 in Maryland provides a pathway to secure affordable housing. This federally funded program, administered locally by Public Housing Authorities (PHAs), bridges the gap between income and housing costs by offering rental assistance to qualifying households.

Whether you're a prospective tenant or landlord, this guide covers the essentials of Section 8 in Maryland, from eligibility criteria to the application process.

What Is Section 8 Housing in Maryland?

The Housing Choice Voucher Program, commonly called Section 8, offers Maryland residents the opportunity to obtain vouchers to help them afford safe housing in the private market. Administered by the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development and overseen by HUD, this program ensures access to safe and decent housing. Qualifying participants work directly with local Public Housing Authorities across the state, paying approximately 30% of their adjusted income toward rent, with the voucher covering the remainder up to a set payment standard.

Maryland’s Section 8 housing program benefits the housing market at large; landlords who join the program benefit from reliable rental payments and access to a broader pool of tenants.

What Is the Most Section 8 Will Pay in Maryland?

The maximum subsidy provided by Section 8 in Maryland is based on Fair Market Rent (FMR), which HUD determines annually. FMR reflects the cost of renting a modest unit in the local market. The amount varies.

Your local PHA will look at the local housing market, how much income your household has, and other factors that may differ between agencies and different areas within the state.

Maryland’s Section 8 vouchers help by paying part of the rent based on what your household can afford. Participants are responsible for paying any rent amount that exceeds the voucher’s subsidy limit.

{{SC-FMR}}

What Are the Maryland Section 8 Housing Requirements?

If you want to receive Section 8 benefits in Maryland, you have to ensure eligibility. To qualify for Section 8 in Maryland, applicants must meet certain criteria: 

• Income Limits: Household income must not exceed HUD’s thresholds, which vary by location and family size
• Citizenship or Immigration Status: At least one household member must be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
• Background Checks: Criminal background checks are conducted for all adult household members. Certain convictions, such as drug-related offenses, may disqualify applicants
• Rental History: A positive rental history and no outstanding debts to Section 8 landlords improve eligibility

Be honest and thorough with your application, and alert your local PHA if anything about your situation changes. You’ll need to be sure that your chosen housing complies with HUD's Housing Quality Standards, including:

• Basic amenities
• Safety
• Sanitation
• Structural integrity

Housing units may undergo regular inspections to verify HQS compliance. Landlords must agree to participate in the program and follow guidelines for rent amounts and lease terms.

What Are the Income Limits for Housing Assistance Programs in Maryland?

Income limits for Section 8 in Maryland are based on the Area Median Income (AMI) and updated annually by HUD. To qualify for Maryland’s Section 8 program, your household’s income must be under a certain percentage of the area's median income for your household size, typically set at 50% or 80% of the AMI.

Income thresholds vary across counties and household sizes to reflect local economic conditions. For example, a family of four in Baltimore might have a different income limit than a similar family in a rural area.

Refer to this year’s table to see if you’re eligible:

{{SC-IL}}

How Long Does It Take to Get Approved for Section 8 in Maryland?

Approval timelines for Section 8 in Maryland depend on factors such as demand, funding availability, and the overall efficiency of local PHAs. After submitting your application, approval times can range from several weeks to several months. Wait times are often longer in cities like Baltimore, sometimes spanning several years, while rural areas may have shorter wait times.

Applicants are encouraged to submit complete applications, respond promptly to requests for information, and regularly update their contact details. Processing takes longer if you submit incomplete applications, so check them carefully to ensure you include all required verifications. 

Once approved, you may go on a waiting list if funding isn’t available right away. 

How To Qualify for Section 8 in Maryland

To qualify for Section 8 in Maryland, applicants must meet specific requirements. Check with your local PHA to get a complete list of what they require in your area. Typically, this means you must: 

1. Meet Income Requirements: Household income must align with HUD’s limits for their family size and location.
2. Provide Required Documentation: This includes proof of income, Social Security numbers, and identification for all household members.
3. Pass Background Checks: All adults in the household must clear criminal background screenings.

Participants must also adhere to lease agreements and promptly report income or household changes. Local PHAs may consider the circumstances individually, but there are no guarantees. Keep in mind that households with urgent needs, such as seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those experiencing homelessness often receive priority.

How To Apply for Section 8 Housing in Maryland

To apply for Section 8 in Maryland, begin by identifying your local Public Housing Agency. Applications are usually available online, by mail, or in person at the PHA office. Key details about the process: 

1. Complete the Application: Provide accurate information about household income, size, and housing needs.
2. Submit Documentation: Include proof of income, identification, and Social Security numbers.
3. Attend an Interview: Some PHAs require interviews as part of the application process.

You’ll have a deadline for returning the completed form, along with several required documents. Don’t submit your application without all the requested records, as this will delay processing. 

The screening process involves verifying income, conducting background checks, and assessing household eligibility according to program requirements. Some PHAs require interviews as part of the application process.

Approved applicants are placed on a waiting list and notified when a voucher becomes available.

Can I Transfer My Section 8 Voucher to Maryland?

Yes; if you currently hold a Section 8 voucher from another state, you may be eligible to transfer it to Maryland. This is known as portability. After you tell your current housing authority that you’re planning to move to Maryland, they will coordinate with the Maryland housing authority to transfer your voucher. 

You will need to meet Maryland’s eligibility rules and may have to wait if there isn’t funding available. Always coordinate with both PHAs to ensure a smooth transition. Speak to agency officials about how to deal with any problems that might come up.

Can I Buy a House With a Section 8 Voucher in Maryland?

Maryland allows qualifying Section 8 participants to use their vouchers towards homeownership expenses in some cases through the Housing Choice Voucher Homeownership Program. You should also find out about the local eligibility criteria and guidelines, but they typically include:

• Meeting minimum income thresholds
• Completing homeownership counseling
• Being a first-time homebuyer

This program isn’t available in all areas—ask if your local PHA participates and inquire about availability.

What Are the Public Housing Authorities in Maryland?

Housing authorities, often operating at the local level, manage and allocate resources to address affordable housing needs within their communities, including overseeing Maryland’s Section 8 program. Their responsibilities include:

• Determining eligibility criteria
• Processing applications
• Conducting inspections
• Facilitating tenant-landlord relationships

There are various PHAs throughout the state. Contact the one closest to you.

{{SC-PHA-TABLE}}

Maryland Waiting List for Section 8 Housing

Waiting lists for Section 8 in Maryland are common, as funding for new participants isn’t usually available right away. Your local Public Housing Agency will process your application to assess your eligibility. If you qualify, you’ll likely spend time on a waiting list.

Maryland’s Section 8 wait lists don’t necessarily follow a first-come, first-served pattern: 

• Priority Consideration: Applicants experiencing homelessness, seniors, and disabled individuals often receive preference.

• Regional Variations: Wait times are typically longer in urban areas like Baltimore compared to rural regions.

Ask your local agency how they manage their wait list. Your PHA will contact you when your voucher becomes available. Applicants should regularly update their contact information and monitor their application status.

Is Emergency Housing Assistance Available in Maryland?

You may be able to get emergency housing assistance in Maryland for urgent needs. The available relief may include:

• Emergency shelters
• Rapid rehousing programs
• Eviction prevention assistance
• Temporary housing subsidies

Eligibility criteria and available resources vary depending on the specific program and your local area. If you’re facing housing instability, reach out as soon as possible to find out more about options for emergency housing. You can contact your local PHA or dial 211 for immediate assistance.

{{SC-EA-TABLE}}

Stay Informed About Section 8 News in Maryland

Section 8 in Maryland offers vital support for households struggling with housing costs, enabling them to secure safe and affordable homes. Seeking a Maryland’s Section 8 voucher often requires time and patience. The first step is understanding the program’s requirements and application process. From there, residents can take meaningful steps toward housing stability and a better quality of life.

Keep up with wait list openings and other news that could affect your status.