The New Hampshire Guide to Section 8 Housing

Safe and stable housing is crucial for individuals and families across New Hampshire. Section 8 in New Hampshire, formally known as the Housing Choice Voucher Program, provides essential rental assistance to low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. By making housing more affordable, this program helps participants find suitable private rental properties in the communities of their choice.

What is Section 8 Housing in New Hampshire

Section 8 housing in New Hampshire is a federally funded program designed to help low-income residents afford safe and secure housing. Administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the program operates locally through Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) across the state.

Recipients can use New Hampshire’s Section 8 vouchers to rent a variety of eligible housing types, including apartments, single-family homes, townhouses, and mobile homes.

Participating landlords receive guaranteed payments for a portion of the rent, ensuring a reliable income stream. However, properties must meet HUD’s Housing Quality Standards (HQS) to qualify for the program.

What is the Most Section 8 Will Pay in New Hampshire?

The maximum amount that Section 8 will pay toward rent in New Hampshire depends on the payment standards set by the local public housing authorities as well as the fair market rents set by HUD for each area. Each local housing authority determines its payment standards within the range established by HUD based on the fair market rents.

In general, the payment standard determines the maximum monthly rent that Section 8 will subsidize in a given area. Payment standards vary based on the location, size of the rental unit and housing authority policies. Section 8 only subsidizes rents up to the applicable payment standard, even if market rents are higher. Understanding the payment standards helps participants determine the maximum assistance available in their area.

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What are the New Hampshire Section 8 Housing Requirements?

To qualify for Section 8 in New Hampshire, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria set by HUD and the local PHA. These requirements ensure the program benefits those most in need: 

• Income Limits: Household income must not exceed 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI). Some programs prioritize households earning less than 30% of the AMI.
• Citizenship: At least one household member must be a U.S. citizen or an eligible noncitizen.
• Social Security Numbers: All household members must provide valid Social Security numbers.
• Background Checks: PHAs review criminal records, rental history, and prior participation in federally assisted housing programs.

Once approved, recipients must follow the housing program’s rules, including notifying the housing authority of any changes to household income, address or composition. Recipients must also recertify for eligibility every year.

What are the Income Limits for Housing Assistance Programs in New Hampshire?

In New Hampshire, the income limits for federal housing assistance programs, such as Section 8 vouchers and public housing, are set based on the Area Median Income for each county. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development sets the AMI each year and adjusts it for household size. Because median income varies by region in New Hampshire, the income limits to qualify for Section 8 housing vouchers vary across the state as well.

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

The amount of time it takes to get approved for Section 8 in New Hampshire can vary depending on the local housing authority. Generally, the process takes several months from the initial application to the voucher issuance: 

• Application Submission: After applying, applicants are placed on a waiting list.
• Waiting List: Wait times range from 1-3 years depending on the county and PHA.
• Eligibility Verification: Once selected from the waitlist, applicants undergo interviews, background checks, and income verification. This process typically takes 1-2 months.
• Voucher Issuance: Approved applicants receive a voucher and have 60 days to find a suitable rental unit.

The unit must meet the program requirements for rent amount, condition and landlord approval. The inspection and lease signing process that follows usually takes a couple of weeks.

How To Qualify for Section 8 in New Hampshire

To qualify for Section 8 in New Hampshire, applicants must meet verify that their income meets the limits set for their specific county and household size. Then, you must provide all required paperwork, including pay stubs, tax returns and bank statements. Supply Social Security cards and birth certificates for all household members as well.

In addition to the defined program requirements, good credit and landlord references can help improve your chances of voucher approval as well. In addition, applicants must not have a recent history of evictions or criminal activity.

How To Apply for Section 8 Housing in New Hampshire

To apply for Section 8 housing vouchers in New Hampshire, applicants first need to contact their local public housing authority to get on the waiting list. In some areas, they can join the waitlist online when open enrollment periods occur.

The application requires personal information such as the applicant’s name, birth date, Social Security number and contact details. They also need information about household size, income and current living situation. Most applications require copies of legal identification, birth certificates, tax returns, pay stubs and bank statements to verify eligibility.

Can I transfer my Section 8 Voucher to New Hampshire?

Yes, Section 8 vouchers are portable, allowing recipients to move to New Hampshire or another state. Recipients need a transfer voucher to do so, which requires that their account be in good standing. Then, they need to confirm that the county they wish to move to is accepting transfer vouchers. The local public housing authority where they plan to move can assess the availability: 

1. Notify Your Current PHA: Request portability approval.
2. Contact a New Hampshire PHA: Confirm that they are accepting incoming transfers.
3. Submit Documentation: Provide rental history, income verification, and other required paperwork.

The housing authority will review the recipient’s rental history, program compliance and funding availability before sending the paperwork to the receiving agency for the transfer. Recipients may need to provide New Hampshire with information to support their eligibility and have the intended rental property inspected before they sign the lease.

Can I Buy a House with a Section 8 Voucher in New Hampshire?

Some PHAs in New Hampshire participate in the Section 8 Homeownership Program, which allows eligible recipients to use their vouchers toward mortgage payments.

Eligibility Criteria for Homeownership:

• Must be a current Section 8 recipient in good standing.
• Complete a HUD-approved homeownership counseling program.
• Meet minimum income and employment requirements.

Participants should contact their local PHA to determine if the program is available in their area.

If accepted, there are income limits, employment requirements and financial contributions that recipients must meet to purchase the home. The voucher would cover a portion of the mortgage for up to 15 years.

What are the Public Housing Authorities in New Hampshire?

There are around 30 public housing authorities throughout the state of New Hampshire that manage Section 8 vouchers and public housing programs. Each PHA maintains its own waiting list, so applicants should contact the agency serving their preferred area. They provide affordable rental housing to income-qualified residents through public housing units, tenant-based vouchers, project-based vouchers and other options.

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New Hampshire Waiting List for Section 8 Housing

The Section 8 housing program in New Hampshire has long waiting lists due to high demand and limited funding. Each PHA has its own method for processing applications. When waitlists are open:

• Selections are based on lottery systems, priority status, or application date.
• Rural areas may have shorter wait times (1 year or less).
• Applicants must respond promptly to eligibility inquiries when their name is selected.

Applicants can check the waiting list status online for most housing authorities.

Is Emergency Housing Assistance Available in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire offers emergency housing assistance for qualifying residents through programs such as Emergency Solutions Grants and the State Homeless Assistance Program. These provide emergency shelter, transitional housing and rapid rehousing to individuals and families in crisis. 

Some programs cover rental and utility payments for those at risk of homelessness. Additional emergency housing resources are available locally through cities, charities and nonprofits as well. Those in urgent need can call 211 to connect with emergency housing providers in their area in New Hampshire.

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The Value of Section 8 Housing in New Hampshire

For decades, Section 8 in New Hampshire has provided low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities the opportunity to secure safe, affordable housing. As the Granite State continues to support its most vulnerable residents, the program remains a vital tool in promoting housing stability and opportunity. 

Our resources about low-income housing can be helpful for those seeking affordable housing options in New Hampshire. For more information, check out the Section 8 waiting lists on our site.

For more information, check out the Section 8 waiting lists on our site.