The West Virginia Guide to Section 8 Housing

Affordable housing is a growing concern in West Virginia, as many residents struggle with rising rent costs. Fortunately, West Virginia’s Section 8—also known as the Housing Choice Voucher Program—provides rental assistance to help low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities secure decent and affordable housing.

This guide provides a thorough overview of Section 8 in West Virginia. Whether you are a prospective applicant or a current participant seeking clarity, read on for all the information you need to apply for Section 8 in West Virginia, understand eligibility, income limits, and other important details.

What Is Section 8 Housing in West Virginia?

Section 8 housing in West Virginia is a federally funded program that helps low-income individuals and families secure affordable housing in the private rental market. Administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs), the program provides rental assistance vouchers.

Eligible participants can use these vouchers to rent homes, apartments, and townhouses from private landlords who agree to participate in the program. Section 8 ensures that participants only pay a portion of the rent, typically 30% of their income, with the program covering the remaining portion up to the payment standard established by the local PHA.

What Is the Most Section 8 Will Pay in West Virginia?

The maximum amount that Section 8 will pay for rent in West Virginia depends on the following factors:

• Household Income
• Family Size
• Fair Market Rent (FMR) for the area

How Payment Works:

• Tenant’s Contribution: Tenants are typically required to contribute 30% of their adjusted gross income toward rent.
• Section 8’s Contribution: The program pays the difference between the tenant’s portion and the payment standard for the area.

The payment standard is based on the FMR set by HUD for each area. FMR reflects the average rental cost for standard units in a particular area.

The median cost to rent an apartment in West Virginia is $1,100 per month. However, the median price of rent might be higher or lower depending on your location.

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What Are the West Virginia Section 8 Housing Requirements?

To be eligible for Section 8 in West Virginia, applicants must meet several requirements set by both HUD and local PHAs.

• Income: Household income must be at or below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for the county or metro area.
• Citizenship/Eligible Immigration Status: At least one household member must be a U.S. citizen or have eligible immigration status.
• Need for Assistance: Applicants must demonstrate a need for housing assistance, such as being homeless or living in substandard conditions.

Once approved, West Virginia Section 8 recipients must comply with program rules, including paying their portion of the rent on time, keeping the rental unit in good condition, and adhering to annual recertification procedures to verify ongoing eligibility.

What Are the Income Limits for Housing Assistance Programs in West Virginia?

Income limits for Section 8 in West Virginia are based on the Area Median Income (AMI), which varies by location and family size. HUD adjusts these limits annually. Typically: 

• Households must earn at or below 50% of the AMI for their area.
• Some PHAs prioritize households with incomes even lower than 50% of the AMI, such as those earning 30% of the AMI.

Income is verified through documents like tax returns, pay stubs, and benefits statements. West Virginia has the 3rd highest poverty rate of the 50 states, so its median income is much less than in other parts of the country. Because of these lower household earnings, the income limits to receive assistance are also much lower. 

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

The timeline for approval can vary. After applying, it may take several weeks to several months to receive a response. Factors such as the volume of applications, funding availability, and completeness of your application can affect processing times.

Once officials approve your application, they will place your name on a waiting list. The wait time can range from several months to several years, depending on local housing needs and the availability of vouchers. When vouchers become available, you will receive a notification to verify your information.

How To Qualify for Section 8 in West Virginia

To qualify for Section 8 in West Virginia, you must demonstrate a need for rental assistance (e.g., living in substandard housing or paying more than 30% of your income on rent). Applicants must also meet certain income and eligibility requirements:

• Income: Your household income must fall below 50% of the AMI for your area.
• Citizenship/Immigration: Proof of U.S. citizenship or eligible noncitizen status is required.
• Screening: You must pass a background check, including criminal history and rental history.

Even if your gross income is higher than the maximum level allowable, factors such as family size and the number of family members who are elderly or children will lower it. West Virginia also gives preference to families who meet the following criteria:

• Are experiencing a government-declared disaster
• Have disabilities
• Work at least half-time
• Are full-time West Virginia residents

Documents you will need to provide include pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, and identification documents (birth certificates, Social Security cards).

How To Apply for Section 8 Housing in West Virginia

To apply for Section 8 in West Virginia, follow these steps:

1. Reach Out to Your Local PHA: Begin by contacting the Public Housing Authority (PHA) in your area. They’ll guide you through their application process, including whether they accept applications online, by mail, or in person.
2. Fill Out the Application: Complete the required application, providing necessary information about your household, income, and current living situation.
3. Submit Necessary Documentation: Gather and submit required documents such as proof of income, identification, and any rental history or references requested by the PHA.
4. Wait for Your Place on the Waiting List: After submitting your application, it will be placed on the waiting list. Because demand is high, it may take some time to get to the top.

When your name rises to the top of the list, the PHA will conduct an eligibility review, which may involve an in-person interview and verification of your documentation.

 Can I Transfer My Section 8 Voucher to West Virginia?

Yes, Section 8 vouchers are portable, meaning you can transfer your voucher to West Virginia if you are already participating in the program in another state. Before moving, you must contact the housing authority issuing your voucher and inform them of your desire to relocate to West Virginia. They will then coordinate with the closest public housing authority to transfer your account.

Both PHAs will coordinate to ensure the transfer of your voucher, verify income eligibility, and inspect the rental unit. The transfer process generally takes 30-60 days to complete.

Can I Buy a House With a Section 8 Voucher in West Virginia?

In some cases, Section 8 participants in West Virginia can use their voucher for homeownership through the Housing Choice Voucher Homeownership Program. Please note:

• You must be a first-time homebuyer.
• You must meet specific income and employment requirements.
• You must complete homeownership counseling.

Once approved, the program helps cover a portion of the mortgage payment and other homeownership costs, allowing you to transition from renting to owning a home.

What Are the Public Housing Authorities in West Virginia?

The West Virginia Public Housing Authority administers the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program and oversees public housing properties throughout the state. HUD also has a federal field office in Charleston.

Additionally, each region has its own local public housing authority. For example, the Mingo Public Housing Authority serves families in Mingo, Logan, Wayne, Wyoming, and McDowell Counties while the Fairmont-Morgantown Housing Authority oversees housing in the cities of Fairmont and Morgantown and their surrounding counties.

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West Virginia Waiting List for Section 8 Housing

The waiting list for Section 8 in West Virginia can be long due to high demand and limited funding. In high-demand cities such as Charleston or Morgantown, the waiting list can stretch from 1 to 5 years. Rural areas may have shorter waits, but waitlists are still common.

• Priority: Certain applicants (e.g., seniors, disabled individuals, homeless families) may be prioritized.

• Lottery System: Some PHAs use a lottery system to ensure fairness in selecting applicants from the waiting list.

Stay in contact with your local PHA and keep your information up to date.

Is Emergency Housing Assistance Available in West Virginia?

Emergency housing assistance is available in West Virginia through various programs and organizations. One such program is the Emergency Solutions Grant program, which provides funds to assist individuals and families experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness. Additionally, the state of West Virginia may offer emergency housing assistance through its Department of Health and Human Resources or local social services agencies.

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More Information About Section 8 in West Virginia

If you’re struggling to afford housing, Section 8 in West Virginia can significantly reduce your housing expenses. By helping pay part of your rent, the program provides more financial stability and helps individuals and families thrive.

Check out our open waiting lists and apply today for assistance.