The West Virginia Guide to Section 8 Housing

In West Virginia, accessing safe and affordable housing can be a challenge for many individuals and families. Fortunately, the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program offers assistance to those in need.

This article provides a thorough overview of Section 8 in West Virginia. Whether you are a prospective applicant or a current participant seeking clarity, understanding the nuances of this federal housing assistance program can help improve your living situation.

What Is Section 8 Housing in West Virginia?

Section 8 of the Federal Housing Act of 1937 authorizes a federally funded program aimed at assisting low-income individuals and families in affording safe and sanitary housing. Through this initiative, eligible participants receive rental assistance vouchers, which they can use to subsidize their rent payments in privately owned housing units.

Housing vouchers cover a portion of monthly rent payments, with recipients typically paying the remaining amount based on their income level. Because they can choose privately owned apartments, Section 8 housing allows participants to receive assistance without the stigma of living in government-owned housing projects.

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

The maximum amount that Section 8 in West Virginia will pay varies depending on factors such as your income, family size, and the local fair market rent established by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Generally, the program covers the difference between 30% of a household's adjusted income and the fair market rent for the area.

The median cost to rent an apartment in West Virginia is $1,000 per month. However, the median price of rent might be higher or lower depending on your location, so the dollar value of your housing vouchers will vary accordingly.

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What Are the West Virginia Section 8 Housing Requirements?

To qualify for Section 8 in West Virginia, you must meet certain eligibility criteria. These include demonstrating a need relative to the area's median income and being a U.S. citizen or having eligible immigration status You must also submit to a background check. Being a felon does not automatically disqualify you from participation unless the charges were for manufacturing illegal drugs in government-assisted housing.

Once in the program, you must adhere to program regulations regarding rental unit standards and tenant responsibilities. Landlords must also meet specific requirements, such as maintaining the property in good condition and adhering to fair housing laws. You are not allowed to use housing vouchers for apartments that are unsafe or do not have enough bedrooms to accommodate your family.

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

To be eligible for Section 8 in West Virginia, the amount of money your family earns each year must not be above what the West Virginia Housing Authority classifies as very low income. This level varies across the state because it depends on the median income of families in each area.

West Virginia has the 4th 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

If you live in West Virginia and have a low income, then there is nothing else you must do to qualify for housing vouchers. However, you must be ready to provide documentation of your income. Other documents you will need include birth certificates, social security cards, and proof of any disabilities for every member of your family.

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

How To Apply for Section 8 Housing in West Virginia

Some housing authorities, including the Fairmont-Morgantown Housing Authority, accept only paper applications. You can print one from their website or pick up a copy in person. Public housing authorities in other locations may have online applications.

The application asks questions about the age, race, and ability level of everyone who lives you with you. You must estimate the amount of money each person receives per month from all sources, including food stamps, child support, and disability, as well as the amount they have in their bank accounts. You also must provide the names and addresses of your previous two landlords.

 Can I Transfer My Section 8 Voucher to West Virginia?

It is possible to transfer your vouchers to West Virginia through a process called portability. 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.

Once the new housing authority approves your transfer, you will need to find a new rental unit that meets the requirements of Section 8 in West Virginia. The housing authority will inspect the new unit to ensure it meets program standards. After approval, you can move in and apply your rental assistance to the new unit.

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

It is sometimes possible to buy a house through the Section 8 program, but it depends on whether your local housing authority participates in the homeownership program and whether you qualify for it. The Section 8 Homeownership Program allows people already receiving housing assistance to use their vouchers for mortgage payments on a home they purchase. Eligibility requirements vary but usually require applicants to work at least half-time and earn a minimum amount of money.

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

In areas where demand for housing exceeds available vouchers, public housing authorities manage waiting lists for Section 8 in West Virginia. Once the housing authority office receives your application, officials will place you on a waiting list based on the time and date you applied. They may also place your application ahead of others if you meet certain criteria.

Once your application reaches the top of the list, you will receive a phone call asking you to attend an orientation meeting. You will then take additional steps to determine whether you qualify to receive vouchers. While you are on the waiting list, it is your responsibility to notify the public housing authority of any changes to your personal information.

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 are struggling to make ends meet on a limited income, housing vouchers are a great way to find some relief. Visit HUDHousingNetwork for more information and to check which waiting lists are currently accepting applications for Section 8 in West Virginia.