The Kentucky Guide to Section 8 Housing

For residents of the Bluegrass State, federal housing programs can be a vital resource for those facing housing affordability challenges. Section 8 in Kentucky plays a significant role in addressing housing affordability challenges. Whether you're a prospective tenant seeking assistance or a landlord considering participation, this guide sheds light on how Kentucky’s Section 8 transforms lives and shapes housing landscapes in the state.

What Is Section 8 Housing in Kentucky?

In Kentucky, Section 8, officially known as the Housing Choice Voucher Program, is a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development initiative administered locally by Public Housing Agencies (PHAs). It provides residential rental assistance to low-income individuals and families, the elderly, and disabled individuals. Kentucky’s Section 8 vouchers help participants pay for housing in the private rental market. 

Recipients typically pay 30% of their income towards rent, while the program covers the remaining cost, up to a set limit based on local Fair Market Rent (FMR) values. The Section 8 program in Kentucky ensures that eligible households have access to safe, low-cost housing options that would probably be unavailable otherwise.

By partnering with Section 8, Kentucky landlords benefit as well by providing guaranteed rental payments, reducing financial risks and promoting long-term tenant relationships.

What Is the Most Section 8 Will Pay in Kentucky?

The maximum amount that Kentucky’s Section 8 housing program will pay often varies because several unique factors come into play. Considerations include: 

• Household Income: Participants’ contribution is typically 30% of their adjusted income.
• Family Size: Larger families qualify for higher payment standards.
• Local Fair Market Rent (FMR): HUD calculates FMR annually to reflect rental costs in specific areas.

Kentucky’s Section 8 administrators will compare your selected housing unit's local payment standard and gross rent. Voucher subsidy amounts can’t be more than whichever of those figures is lower. Participants are responsible for any rent amount exceeding the voucher’s maximum subsidy. Consult your local PHA to get exact figures, but here's a quick snapshot of data from the HUD office:

What Are the Kentucky Section 8 Housing Requirements?

If you receive Section 8 subsidies in Kentucky, there are several rules you have to follow. 

• Meet Income Limits: Household income must fall below HUD’s thresholds, which vary by family size and location.
• Provide Citizenship or Immigration Status: All household members must be U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens.
• Pass Background Checks: Criminal background screenings are required for all adult members. Certain convictions may disqualify applicants.
• Comply with Program Rules: Participants must report income changes and adhere to lease agreements.
• Maintain Safe Housing: Selected units must meet HUD’s Housing Quality Standards.

You must provide accurate income and household information to your local Public Housing Agency and notify them quickly about any changes in your circumstances. 

Make sure you follow the rules in your lease. That means making payments on time for utilities, rent, and any other specified obligations. You may lose eligibility and access to the program’s benefits if you don’t meet all the terms.

What Are the Income Limits for Housing Assistance Programs in Kentucky?

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development sets income limits based on the Area Median Income (AMI) and may recalculate them yearly to be sure they are fair. These limits may vary across the state. 

Before you apply for Section 8 in Kentucky, find out what the income limits are for your location. 

How Long Does It Take to Get Approved for Section 8 in Kentucky?

Getting approved for Section 8 housing in Kentucky takes different amounts of time, depending on where you live.

• Urban Areas: Waiting lists of 2-4 years in larger cities like Louisville

• Smaller Towns: Typically shorter waiting periods but fewer available vouchers

Time spent on the waiting list also depends on factors like how many people apply, whether your application is complete, and how much money is available for funding. 

After you apply, it could take a few weeks to a few months for the PHA to decide. It's important to keep in touch and answer any questions they have because waiting to respond adds to the waiting period.

How To Qualify for Section 8 in Kentucky

To qualify for Kentucky’s Section 8 housing program, you need to meet several requirements.

1. Meet Income Requirements: Household income must align with HUD’s limits for their family size and location.
2. Provide Required Documentation: This includes proof of income, Social Security numbers, and identification for all household members.
3. Pass Background Checks: All adults in the household must clear criminal background screenings.
4. Comply with Program Rules: Participants must adhere to lease agreements and promptly report any changes to the PHA.

If you apply for Section 8 in Kentucky, you should plan to use your voucher in that state. Specific situations might disqualify you from participating in this program. These might be certain kinds of criminal offenses in the last three years or previous evictions. 

Additionally, those in extremely low-income households, individuals with disabilities, seniors, and those experiencing homelessness often receive priority.

How To Apply for Section 8 Housing in Kentucky

If you need an application for Section 8 housing in Kentucky, you can get one online or directly from your local Public Housing Agency. Provide accurate information about household income, size, and other details. 

Be sure to include the required documents and meet the specified deadline when you submit the application to the PHA. 

After receiving your application, the PHA will review it to determine your eligibility. They may ask you to attend an interview or provide additional information. Notify the PHA if your contact information or household circumstances change. 

When the PHA finishes the review process, they will tell you if you qualify. Approved applicants are placed on a waiting list and notified when a voucher becomes available.

Can I Transfer My Section 8 Voucher to Kentucky?

Yes, you should be able to move your Section 8 voucher to Kentucky if you need to relocate. First, talk to your current PHA about transferring and request portability paperwork. They'll work with Kentucky's housing authority to help you move. But remember, transfer options depend on availability and the rules in your new location. 

Make sure that you meet Kentucky's requirements and follow all transfer rules. Coordinate with both PHAs to ensure a smooth transition.

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

Kentucky’s Section 8 subsidies primarily help with rental housing costs. If you qualify, you may be able to buy a home with assistance from the Housing Choice Voucher Homeownership Program. Your income and credit score will have to meet this program’s guidelines.

Not all housing authorities in Kentucky participate in the homeownership program, so availability varies. Your local housing authority can tell you more about your area's program guidelines, requirements, and availability.

What Are the Public Housing Authorities in Kentucky?

Kentucky housing authorities manage public housing and Section 8 vouchers. These agencies check applicant eligibility, handle applications, and inspect homes to be sure they're safe. 

PHAs also work with other groups to help communities with other housing-related concerns. 

HUD Housing Authorities Serving Kentucky

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Appalachian Foothills Housing Agency Inc

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 785 Units Available in the Appalachian Foothills Housing Agency Inc. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Appalachian Foothills Housing Agency Inc Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 785 Units Available in the Appalachian Foothills Housing Agency Inc. These Low-i...

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Ashland Planning and Community Development Agency

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 631 Units Available in the Ashland Planning and Community Development Agency. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Ashland Planning and Community Development Agency Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 631 Units Available in the Ashland Planning and Community Development Agency. Th...

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Boone County Fiscal Court

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 1003 Units Available in the Boone County Fiscal Court. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Boone County Fiscal Court Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 1003 Units Available in the Boone County Fiscal Court. These Low-income Housing ...

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Campbell County Department of Housing

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 778 Units Available in the Campbell County Department of Housing. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Campbell County Department of Housing Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 778 Units Available in the Campbell County Department of Housing. These Low-inco...

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Campbellsville Housing and Redevelopment Authority

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 574 Units Available in the Campbellsville Housing and Redevelopment Authority. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Campbellsville Housing and Redevelopment Authority Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 574 Units Available in the Campbellsville Housing and Redevelopment Authority. T...

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City of Bowling Green Housing Division

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 695 Units Available in the City of Bowling Green Housing Division. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the City of Bowling Green Housing Division Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 695 Units Available in the City of Bowling Green Housing Division. These Low-inc...

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City of Paducah Section 8 Housing Program

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 623 Units Available in the City of Paducah Section 8 Housing Program. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the City of Paducah Section 8 Housing Program Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 623 Units Available in the City of Paducah Section 8 Housing Program. These Low-...

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City of Richmond Section 8 Housing Program

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 735 Units Available in the City of Richmond Section 8 Housing Program. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the City of Richmond Section 8 Housing Program Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 735 Units Available in the City of Richmond Section 8 Housing Program. These Low...

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Covington Community Development Agency

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 1206 Units Available in the Covington Community Development Agency. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Covington Community Development Agency Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 1206 Units Available in the Covington Community Development Agency. These Low-in...

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Cumberland Valley Regional Housing Authority

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 1572 Units Available in the Cumberland Valley Regional Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Cumberland Valley Regional Housing Authority Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 1572 Units Available in the Cumberland Valley Regional Housing Authority. These ...

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Kentucky Waiting List for Section 8 Housing

When you apply for Section 8 assistance, the local Public Housing Agency reviews your eligibility and puts you on the waiting list if you qualify. The wait time depends on how many people apply and how many vouchers are available. As vouchers become free, the PHA contacts people on the list.

In Kentucky, Section 8 waiting lists may assign preference points to certain applicants, giving them priority. Preference points might go to families experiencing homelessness, veterans, or those facing domestic violence. 

These points can help move applicants up the waiting list faster. However, not all PHAs use preference points, and eligibility criteria vary. Always check with your local Public Housing Agency for specific details.

Is Emergency Housing Assistance Available in Kentucky?

Yes—emergency housing assistance is available in Kentucky for people facing housing crises. The rules for getting help and the resources available can vary depending on where you are in Kentucky. Non-profits, government agencies, and local groups may offer programs like help with eviction prevention and emergency shelters. For example, Emergency Solutions Grants (ESGs) offer funding for rapid re-housing and homelessness prevention services. 

When you're dealing with housing problems, reaching out for help early can make a big difference. Contact your local Department of Social Services, housing authority, or community organizations right away. They can guide you on what to do and what help is available. 

Additionally, 211 Kentucky is a resource for finding emergency housing and social services.

Emergency Rental Assistance Serving Kentucky

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Healthy at Home Eviction Relief Fund

Program Type: State

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

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Housing Stabilization Partnership Program

Program Type: County

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

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Jefferson County Rental Assistance

Program Type: County

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

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Stay Up to Date With Section 8 Resources

Although the Section 8 program in Kentucky typically isn’t a fast fix, it provides housing opportunities you couldn’t access without financial assistance. You need to keep your information updated with your local PHA, but you should also stay on top of all Section 8 developments in Kentucky. By understanding the program’s requirements and processes, participants can take meaningful steps toward securing safe and decent homes.

Here at HUDHousingNetwork, you'll find helpful resources and articles to help you keep current about Section 8 happenings, or sign up to receive alerts.