The South Dakota Guide to Section 8 Housing

Section 8 in South Dakota provides affordable, safe, and secure rental options to thousands of low-income households across South Dakota. Section 8 recipients in South Dakota can choose any rental unit that meets program standards.

What is Section 8 Housing in South Dakota

The Housing Choice Voucher program, also known as Section 8 housing, is a federal housing assistance program in the United States that provides housing subsidies to low-income renters. In South Dakota, the program falls under the jurisdiction of local public housing authorities. Eligible low-income families, seniors, and disabled individuals receive vouchers that they can use to rent housing units in the private market. This gives participants the freedom to select their preferred neighborhoods and housing types.

What is the Most Section 8 Will Pay in South Dakota?

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The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development establishes the fair market rents for each area in the state, which usually equals the 40th percentile of rental rates in that area. Those fair market rents form the basis for Section 8’s maximum rent payment amounts. The recipient would also pay 30% of their adjusted monthly income as their portion of rent. Section 8 then covers the gap between the recipient’s contribution and the FMR limit.

What are the South Dakota Section 8 Housing Requirements?

Applicants should have incomes below 50% of the area median income based on their household size. Applicants also have to pass criminal background checks to ensure they have no recent history of violent or drug-related crimes. All household members need to provide proof of citizenship or legal immigration status. In addition, applicants must provide landlord references and be able to fulfill basic lease obligations such as paying rent on time.

Once approved for Section 8, participants must adhere to certain program rules to maintain their vouchers. They must allow inspections of their rental unit, report changes in household composition, and annually recertify their income. There are limits on how long recipients can be out of the home and requirements around reporting extended absences.

What are the Income Limits for Housing Assistance Programs in South Dakota?

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The area median income for each area in South Dakota provides the foundation for the income limits for Section 8 vouchers. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development calculates income limits so that households earning 50% of the median income qualify for housing vouchers. 

Limits vary by county and household size. By setting income thresholds at 50% of area median income, programs such as Section 8 can target those most in need while still providing some flexibility based on local economic conditions across South Dakota.

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

The time it takes to get approved for Section 8 rental assistance in South Dakota can vary depending on the local public housing authority. Typically, the process takes several months from the initial application to voucher issuance. Wait times depend on factors like funding availability and demand in that area. The first step is applying to get on the Section 8 waiting list, which could take weeks to months if the list is currently closed. 

Once selected from the waitlist, the housing authority will process the full application by verifying income eligibility, running background checks, and confirming other requirements. This detailed approval process often takes 1-2 months. After determining eligibility, the applicant may wait several additional weeks or months on a second list before receiving the voucher when one becomes available. 

Overall, the whole process of getting fully approved and receiving a Section 8 voucher regularly takes 6 months to 1 year for most applicants in South Dakota. The wait is often longer in high-demand areas. Understanding the typical timeline helps set expectations for low-income households seeking rental assistance through the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program in South Dakota.

How To Qualify for Section 8 in South Dakota

To qualify for Section 8 housing vouchers in South Dakota, applicants must meet certain income limits as well as other eligibility criteria. The first requirement is having a household income below 50% of the area median income, adjusted for family size. Applicants also need to pass background checks showing no history of recent violent or drug-related criminal activity. All members of the household need to provide proof of citizenship or legal immigration status. 

In addition, applicants must supply landlord references, have acceptable credit, and demonstrate the ability to comply with lease terms. Applicants deemed eligible for Section 8 after meeting the income limits, criminal background checks, and other verification requirements go on a waiting list. When vouchers become available, the housing authority selects applicants from the waitlist for the final approval process before issuing the Section 8 voucher. 

How To Apply for Section 8 Housing in South Dakota

Those looking to apply for Section 8 in South Dakota can get an application online from their local housing authority’s website or in the local office. Once received, the housing authority reviews the application, conducts needed background checks, and determines preliminary qualification for Section 8 based on income limits and other criteria. 

Can I transfer my Section 8 Voucher to South Dakota?

Those with active Section 8 vouchers from other states can potentially move to South Dakota and continue receiving their voucher benefits. To do this, the head of household would first need to locate a rental unit in South Dakota that meets program requirements with a landlord willing to accept the voucher. 

They would then request the housing authority that issued their voucher to send it to the agency that administers Section 8 in the South Dakota county they are moving to. As long as there is funding availability, the receiving housing authority usually absorbs the ported voucher after a couple of months. 

Can I Buy a House with a Section 8 Voucher in South Dakota?

Section 8 housing vouchers typically subsidize rents for low-income tenants in the private rental market. However, in some cases, these vouchers can also apply to mortgage payments for first-time homebuyers on Section 8 in South Dakota. The Homeownership Program allows voucher recipients to use their rental assistance for monthly homeowner expenses such as mortgage, insurance, and property taxes. 

To qualify, applicants need to meet income limits, be a current Section 8 tenant, complete homebuyer counseling, be pre-approved for a mortgage, and meet other requirements. The voucher amount depends on factors like household income, mortgage costs, and utility expenses. Section 8 homeownership vouchers last for 15 years as long as the recipient remains eligible and lives in the home. 

While not all housing authorities in South Dakota choose to administer the homeownership program, Section 8 voucher holders in certain areas can potentially achieve the dream of homeownership.

What are the Public Housing Authorities in South Dakota?

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The public housing authorities in South Dakota that oversee Section 8 and other housing voucher programs cover various cities, counties, and reservations in the state. South Dakota currently has around 50 public housing agencies that manage housing programs and properties for low-income residents. These authorities have jurisdiction over specific areas and are responsible for functions like operating public housing complexes, maintaining waiting lists, approving Section 8 vouchers, conducting inspections, and connecting residents with supportive services. 

The different public housing authorities across South Dakota allow localized administration of rental assistance and affordable housing programs for qualifying individuals and families in need. Knowing which agency serves their region makes it easier for South Dakota residents to apply for and utilize available housing help.

South Dakota Waiting List for Section 8 Housing

Section 8 in South Dakota typically has long waiting lists due to high demand and limited funding. Each local public housing authority maintains a waiting list for its jurisdiction. When vouchers become available, recipients move along the waiting list based on factors such as date and time of application, local preferences, and income targeting requirements. Some housing authorities close the waitlist when it exceeds capacity. Veterans, disabled individuals, and the homeless receive priority when selecting new Section 8 recipients. 

Is Emergency Housing Assistance Available in South Dakota?

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South Dakota does have emergency housing assistance programs available for qualifying individuals and families facing homelessness or housing instability crises. Key emergency services include emergency shelter provided by nonprofits and charitable organizations across the state. Shelters offer temporary refuge and housing support while case managers help address the root causes of homelessness. The South Dakota Housing for the Homeless Consortium coordinates shelter resources and access. 

Rental assistance is also available through the Emergency Solutions Grants program to help those at risk of homelessness retain or obtain housing. Households may receive short-term rental subsidies and other housing stabilization services funded by government and charitable sources. Additionally, hotel vouchers can help in severe circumstances. While limited in scope, these emergency interventions aim to protect the vulnerable from unsafe living conditions and get them back on their feet. 

Is Section 8 in South Dakota the Right Choice for You?

Section 8 in South Dakota provides substantial support to low-income households struggling with housing costs. These invaluable subsidies can provide opportunities for families to afford their housing and other costs. Check out the waitlists as you decide if the time is right to apply.