The Mississippi Guide to Section 8 Housing

Of the basic requirements a person needs to live, shelter is the first priority. Section 8 in Mississippi plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between income and housing costs for low-income individuals and families. With the ongoing shortage of affordable housing in the state, this program provides stability, reduces homelessness, and supports the overall well-being of Mississippi communities. 

This guide will explain how to know if you are eligible for Mississippi’s Section 8 program, how to apply, and how to take the next steps toward securing housing assistance.

What Is Section 8 Housing in Mississippi?

The Housing Choice Voucher Program, also known as Section 8, is designed to help Mississippi residents facing housing affordability challenges. Administered by local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs), this program currently supports tens of thousands of households by ensuring they pay no more than 30% of their adjusted monthly income toward rent.

Unlike some housing assistance programs, Section 8 provides recipients with flexibility. Instead of limiting participants to government-owned properties, vouchers can be used for privately owned housing, including apartments, rental homes, and townhouses. These vouchers are similar to coupons that recipients can give to their landlords in exchange for a portion of their rent each month. In 2023, 1.2 million households across the country paid for their rent this way.

What Is the Most Section 8 Will Pay in Mississippi?

Section 8 in Mississippi allows people to find their own privately owned apartments, rather than requiring them to live in government-owned housing developments. The amount of assistance you’ll receive depends on your income and the fair market rent (FMR) for your area, as set by HUD. Here’s how the calculation works:

• You are required to contribute 30% of your adjusted monthly income toward rent.
• The PHA pays the difference between your contribution and the Payment Standard for your area.

Most local programs set the amount of assistance such that families must pay no more out of pocket than 30% of their incomes. If you select a unit with rent higher than the Payment Standard, you’ll need to pay the additional cost out of pocket.

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What Are the Mississippi Section 8 Housing Requirements?

To qualify for Section 8 in Mississippi, you must meet specific eligibility criteria:

1. Income: Your household income must fall within limits set by HUD, typically at 70% or less of the median income for your area.
2. Residency and Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen or an eligible noncitizen and reside within Mississippi.
3. Age: Applicants must meet one of the following:
   • Be 21 years or older,
   • Be 18 years old and married, or
   • Have had their minority status legally removed by a local chancellor.
4. Criminal History: While having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you, some offenses render applicants ineligible for the program.

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

Income limits for Section 8 in Mississippi are determined by household size and the area’s median income. Mississippi has the lowest median income in the U.S., making its limits more stringent than in many other states.

Applicants with elderly or disabled household members may qualify with a slightly higher adjusted income. The more children or other dependents you have, the lower your adjusted income.

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How Long Does it Take To Get Approved for Section 8 in Mississippi?

The time it takes to get approved for Section 8 in Mississippi can vary depending on: 

• The application processing time
• Length of the waiting list 
• Ease of the verification process

Some applicants may wait weeks, while others face delays of several months—or even years in high-demand areas.

To stay informed, ask your PHA how they will notify you of application updates (phone, email, or mail). In addition, provide accurate contact information and promptly report any changes.

How To Qualify for Section 8 in Mississippi

Qualifying for Mississippi’s Section 8 program involves meeting certain requirements. If housing costs exceed 30% of your income, you may already meet the primary financial requirement. Additional factors that may improve your eligibility include:

• Having a large family or dependent care responsibilities.
• Demonstrating a stable income and reliable rental history.
• Meeting any local PHA preferences, such as being elderly, disabled, or homeless.

Gather documentation proving disabilities or other qualifying circumstances. Be truthful when reporting income to avoid fines, benefit termination, or legal consequences. Locate and familiarize yourself with your local PHA’s application process for further guidance.

How To Apply for Section 8 Housing in Mississippi

The application process varies depending on the local housing authority where you live. For example, the Mississippi Regional Housing Authority IV, which serves the central part of the state, has a paper application that applicants must download, print and mail. Other local housing authorities may have online applications.

Gathering information ahead of time will make the application process go faster. It also will avoid issues with losing your progress due to online systems logging you out for taking too long to answer questions. Have the following information ready for each person living in your home:

• Full legal name
• Birth date, including year
• Social Security number
• Type of disability, if applicable
• Amount of money received each month from all sources

Once approved for Section 8 in Mississippi, you will need to show official documents for each family member. If you have lost social cards or other papers, now is a good time to apply for replacements.

Can I Transfer my Section 8 Voucher to Mississippi?

Yes, Section 8 vouchers are portable, allowing participants to move across state lines. However, you’ll need approval from both your current and receiving PHAs. However, approval is not automatic and there are specific procedures and guidelines that you must follow.

The portability process involves coordination between your current and receiving housing authorities and not all PHAs participate in the portability program. Therefore, you should contact both PHAs early in the process to know whether you can keep your benefits.

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

Mississippi offers the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Homeownership Program in certain areas, allowing participants to transition from renting to owning. When available, it’s ideal for those who meet the following requirements:

• Receive Section 8 in Mississippi for a rental property for at least one year
• Are a first-time homebuyer
• Earn at least $14,500 per year
• Work 30 hours per week for one year before applying, unless elderly or disabled

Several housing authorities, including the Eastern Mississippi Regional Housing Authority, offer the homeownership program.

What Are the Public Housing Authorities in Mississippi?

Mississippi has many public housing authorities that manage public housing and administer Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher programs. They each follow federal guidelines, but they do not generally share applicant information. If you apply to one housing authority, then you must live within its jurisdiction, so be sure to apply to the correct one for your situation.

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Mississippi Waiting List for Section 8 Housing

Mississippi’s Section 8 waiting lists are typically long due to high demand. In some areas, the wait can extend up to 10 years, and certain PHAs have temporarily closed their lists to new applicants.

Factors that may prioritize your application include:

• Being displaced by natural disasters like hurricanes or tornadoes.
• Facing eviction or threats of violence.
• Living in substandard housing without basic utilities.

Some characteristics of substandard housing include lack of a kitchen, heat, or indoor plumbing. Priority is also often given to those with disabilities, the elderly, and extremely low income families.

Is Emergency Housing Assistance Available in Mississippi?

While Section 8 is a long-term solution, other programs provide emergency housing assistance. Local nonprofits, like the Salvation Army, offer temporary shelter, rent relief, or assistance for those at immediate risk of homelessness. Dial 211 or contact your local PHA if you need immediate assistance with emergency housing. 

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Section 8 in Mississippi

For low-income families in Mississippi, Section 8 offers a pathway to secure and affordable housing. With careful preparation and understanding of the application process, you can navigate the system and provide a stable home for your household. Check out open Section 8 waiting lists in Mississippi with our easy tool!