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Alabama Section 8 Housing Application Guide

Brittney Richey
Published January 09, 2025 06:22:am EST

The Alabama Guide to Section 8 Housing

Section 8 in Alabama plays a vital role in providing low-income individuals and families with access to affordable, safe, and decent housing. Managed by the Alabama Housing Finance Authority (AHFA) and local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs), this federally funded initiative empowers residents to find homes in the private rental market while receiving financial assistance to ease housing costs.

Alabama has seen a growing demand for affordable housing, with an estimated 16.6% of households in the state experiencing severe housing cost burdens (National Low Income Housing Coalition). Programs like Section 8 address this need, helping bridge the affordability gap in both urban and rural areas.

In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about Section 8 in Alabama—from eligibility requirements to navigating the application process—so you can confidently secure the housing assistance you need.

What is Section 8 Housing in Alabama?

Section 8, also known as the Housing Choice Voucher Program, enables low-income households to pay a portion of their rent, with the program covering the rest, up to a predetermined limit. Administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), this initiative promotes housing affordability and stability.

The Alabama Housing Finance Authority (AHFA)

oversees the program in the state, coordinating with local PHAs to connect eligible residents with landlords offering qualifying rental properties. This collaborative effort ensures access to secure, affordable housing for Alabama residents facing economic challenges.

What is the Most Section 8 Will Pay in Alabama?

The maximum payment amount under Section 8 varies based on several factors, including:

The HUD determines a payment standard, which represents the maximum subsidy provided for a specific area. Generally, participants contribute 30% of their adjusted gross income toward rent, while Section 8 covers the rest up to the payment standard.

Renters in urban areas may experience tighter competition for available vouchers and housing units.

Fair Market Rent

The HUD Section 8 program pays rents for low-income households directly to private landlords. The Housing Authority of Alabama will pay about 70% of a tenant’s rent, while the tenant will pay the other 30%. Fair Market Rents generally determine the maximum rent that a Section 8 landlord will be allowed to charge their residents. The table below shows current fair market rents for Alabama.

Alabama Fair Market Rent
Studio
$665
1 Bedroom
$760
2 Bedrooms
$888
3 Bedrooms
$1,074
4 Bedrooms
$1,186

What are the Alabama Section 8 Housing Requirements?

To qualify for Section 8 in Alabama, applicants must meet specific criteria set by HUD and local housing authorities. Key requirements include:

Meeting these requirements may not guarantee immediate assistance due to longer waiting lists.

Income Limit

Income Limits are maximum income limits allowed based on household size. The following limits were established by HUD for low income households to be eligible for housing assistance in Alabama for 2024.

Alabama Income Limit
1 Person
$46,200
2 Person
$52,800
3 Person
$59,400
4 Person
$66,000
5 Person
$71,300

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

Approval timelines for Section 8 can vary depending on:

In Alabama, wait times for Section 8 assistance can range from 6 months to 3 years, with urban areas like Birmingham and Huntsville experiencing the longest delays due to higher demand. Applicants are encouraged to follow up regularly with the housing authority to stay informed about their application status.

How To Qualify for Section 8 in Alabama

Eligibility for Section 8 housing assistance requires meeting HUD's low-income limits and other criteria. Some housing authorities may give priority to:

Applicants must provide documentation such as proof of income, identification, and, if applicable, residency in the housing authority's service area.

How To Apply for Section 8 Housing in Alabama

To apply for Section 8 in Alabama:

  1. Contact the Local Housing Authority: Determine the PHA serving your desired area.
  2. Complete the Application: Applications can often be submitted online or in person.
  3. Submit Documentation: Provide proof of income, identification, and any additional required documents.
  4. Attend Briefings or Interviews: Some PHAs require attendance at informational sessions as part of the process.

Can I transfer my Section 8 Voucher to Alabama?

Yes, Section 8 vouchers are portable, meaning you can transfer them to Alabama. Here’s how:

  1. Notify your current housing authority of your intent to move.
  2. Request portability paperwork and provide it to the receiving housing authority in Alabama.
  3. Search for approved rental units in Alabama while awaiting transfer approval.
  4. The receiving housing authority will inspect the chosen unit to ensure it meets health and safety standards.

Can I Buy a House with a Section 8 Voucher in Alabama?

Section 8 vouchers cannot be used to purchase homes in Alabama. However, those interested in homeownership can explore programs like Alabama Housing Finance Authority's Step Up Program or HUD Homeownership Assistance Programs.

What are the Public Housing Authorities in Alabama?

Public Housing Authorities administer Section 8 and other affordable housing programs. They are responsible for:

HUD Housing Authorities Serving Alabama

Search
Abbeville Housing Authority

Abbeville Housing Authority

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 40 Units Available in the Abbeville Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Abbeville Housing Authority Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 40 Units Available in the Abbeville Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing ...

Albertville Housing Authority

Albertville Housing Authority

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 561 Units Available in the Albertville Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Albertville Housing Authority Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 561 Units Available in the Albertville Housing Authority. These Low-income Housi...

Altoona Housing Authority

Altoona Housing Authority

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 97 Units Available in the Altoona Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Altoona Housing Authority Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 97 Units Available in the Altoona Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Un...

Andalusia Housing Authority

Andalusia Housing Authority

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 120 Units Available in the Andalusia Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Andalusia Housing Authority Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 120 Units Available in the Andalusia Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing...

Anniston Housing Authority

Anniston Housing Authority

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 1108 Units Available in the Anniston Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Anniston Housing Authority Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 1108 Units Available in the Anniston Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing...

Arab Housing Authority

Arab Housing Authority

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 174 Units Available in the Arab Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Arab Housing Authority Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 174 Units Available in the Arab Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Unit...

Ashford Housing Authority

Ashford Housing Authority

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 76 Units Available in the Ashford Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Ashford Housing Authority Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 76 Units Available in the Ashford Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Un...

Atmore Housing Authority

Atmore Housing Authority

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 168 Units Available in the Atmore Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Atmore Housing Authority Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 168 Units Available in the Atmore Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Un...

Auburn Housing Authority

Auburn Housing Authority

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 727 Units Available in the Auburn Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Auburn Housing Authority Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 727 Units Available in the Auburn Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Un...

Bay Minette Housing Authority

Bay Minette Housing Authority

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 107 Units Available in the Bay Minette Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Bay Minette Housing Authority Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 107 Units Available in the Bay Minette Housing Authority. These Low-income Housi...

Alabama Waiting List for Section 8 Housing

Waiting lists for Section 8 in Alabama are managed by local PHAs and vary by location. Applicants should check the status of waiting lists directly with their local PHA and submit updated contact information to avoid missing opportunities.

Is Emergency Housing Assistance Available in Alabama?

Emergency housing assistance is available through programs like:

Contacting local community action agencies is a good first step for those in urgent need.

Emergency Rental Assistance Serving Alabama

Search

Alabama Emergency Rental Assistance Program

Program Type: State

Details: Offers emergency rental assistance, covid relief, utility assistance and more

Baldwin County Emergency Rental Assistance Program

Program Type: County

Details: Offers emergency rental assistance, covid relief, utility assistance and more

Birmingham Emergency Rental Assistance Program

Program Type: City

Details: Offers emergency rental assistance, covid relief, utility assistance and more

City of Huntsville COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Program

Program Type: City

Details: Offers emergency rental assistance, covid relief, utility assistance and more

Emergency Rental Assistance Montgomery County (ERAMCo)

Program Type: County

Details: Offers emergency rental assistance, covid relief, utility assistance and more

Jefferson County Alabama Emergency Rental Assistance Program

Program Type: County

Details: Offers emergency rental assistance, covid relief, utility assistance and more

Madison County Emergency Rental Assistance Program

Program Type: County

Details: Offers emergency rental assistance, covid relief, utility assistance and more

Mobile County Treasury Emergency Rental and Utility Assistance

Program Type: County

Details: Offers emergency rental assistance, covid relief, utility assistance and more

Tuscaloosa County Emergency Rental Assistance Program

Program Type: County

Details: Offers emergency rental assistance, covid relief, utility assistance and more

Section 8 in Alabama: A Comprehensive Program

Section 8 in Alabama provides a lifeline to low-income individuals and families by bridging the gap between financial constraints and housing needs. Through effective partnerships between HUD, AHFA, and local PHAs, the program fosters stability and inclusivity in communities across the state.

For more information about Section 8 housing in Alabama, contact your local PHA to get started.

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