There are more than 18 million veterans residing in the United States. Depending on their location and financial situations, many may struggle to cover their expenses. Certain regions, including Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco, experience a significantly higher cost of living compared to other areas. Whether veterans find themselves financially strained due to being between jobs or unable to secure employment that offers adequate wages, it can create a challenging environment. Fortunately, assistance is available through programs like Section 8 for veterans, which can help ease the burden of meeting monthly expenses.
Housing Assistance for Veterans
Housing represents one of the most significant expenses for veterans, as it typically consumes a large share of their income. A recent study by the National Low Income Housing Coalition revealed that to afford an average one-bedroom apartment in the U.S., individuals would need to earn at least $17.14 per hour. For a two-bedroom apartment, the required hourly wage rises to approximately $21.21. With housing costs soaring and salaries failing to keep up with these increasing expenses, many veterans find themselves under considerable financial pressure. Given these challenges in securing affordable housing, it’s crucial for veterans facing difficulties to explore available housing assistance programs. One of the most recognized and widely utilized options is the Section 8 assistance program specifically designed for veterans.
Section 8 Assistance for Veterans
The Housing and Urban Development (HUD) department of the government is in charge of helping people around the country with housing assistance. They offer numerous programs that will help veterans pay their rent, locate affordable housing, and even obtain necessary repairs on their home. They will also help people to avoid foreclosure. One of the popular programs offered by HUD is Section 8, otherwise known as Housing Choice Vouchers.
The Section 8 assistance program for veterans will help those who have a low income and need affordable housing options. With Housing Choice Vouchers, those who qualify for the assistance are given vouchers that can be used toward their rent payments. The vouchers are considered grants that help pay for the rent or mortgage payment. Unlike a loan, the funds never have to be paid back. The program doesn’t pay all of your rent, but it does pay a portion of it each month.
Here are some additional things to know about Section 8 assistance for veterans:
- Participants are able to locate their own housing. They do not have to stick with living in any particular housing units. They can choose from apartments, houses, townhouses, etc.
- The Section 8 housing vouchers are funded through the federal government, but they are distributed through local housing authorities.
- The grant payments are made directly to the landlord. This means that you will need to select a housing unit where the landlord is willing to accept federal housing voucher payments.
- Eligibility requirements for the Section 8 assistance program for veterans include meeting the low income requirements, and being a citizen or legal immigrant. You will also need to verify such things as your income and identity.
- The housing unit that you select for the Section 8 voucher program will need to meet the health and safety requirements set forth by HUD.
- You are not stuck in one housing until because you are receiving Section 8 assistance. Moving is permitted, providing the right plan is followed, such as following the terms of your lease.
Applying for Section 8 Assistance
Veterans who need help paying for their rent or mortgage may qualify for assistance through the Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers program. The program has made many changes over the years, and today you are not bound to staying in specific complexes. With the program today, you have the ability to live in the house or apartment of your choice, providing the landlord will accept the vouchers and the unit meets the HUD safety standards.
Those interested in applying for Section 8 assistance need to contact their local Public Housing Authority. There are offices around the nation, so you need locate the one that is closest to your area. You can apply for the Section 8 assistance program for veterans in person. To apply, click here.