In general, Section 8 refers to the federal housing allowance program that provides rent subsidies in the form of vouchers and certificates for low-income households. Established in 1974 as part of the Housing and Community Development Act, at the heart of the program is a housing allowance is to provide a low-income household (usually-based on a percentage of income) to rent a housing unit of better quality than they could unassisted. The New Construction, Substantial Rehabilitation and Moderate Rehabilitation Section 8 subprograms (in which subsidies were made to developers to encourage the building of affordable housing) in the 1974 Act have been phased out.

In New York City, the program is administered by The NYC Housing Authority (NYCHA), the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) and the NYC Department of Homeless Services (DHS).

NYCHA handles the bulk of vouchers and certificates in NYC, according to NYCHA 77,000 families use vouchers and certificates in private apartments. If you wish to apply, or are participating but have a question, call the City's Citizen Service Center by dialing 311 or check out their website.

Some tenants living in buildings rehabilitated through HPD programs may receive Federal Section 8 subsidies administered by HPD. Tenants who are now receiving Section 8 benefits through HPD, or building owners with tenants receiving such benefits through HPD, can call (917) 286-4300 for assistance. You can also follow this link to the HPD Section 8 web page.

DHS administers a Section 8 program to assist homeless families and singles in locating suitable permanent housing. This includes individuals and families currently living in the subway and Amtrak systems of the City. Also included are those households who are in substantial danger of becoming homeless due to a destabilizing event. To apply, contact DHS through the City's Citizen Service Center by dialing 311.

RGB Page Updated 10/2/09

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