Step-by-Step Guide: Applying for Section 8 in North Carolina

If you are struggling with rent costs or facing housing instability in North Carolina, the federal Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program may help you find affordable, safe housing. This state-specific guide will walk you through the process to apply for Section 8 in North Carolina, explain eligibility requirements, show you key forms—including where and how to file—and connect you to reliable support resources.

What Is Section 8 and Who Is Eligible?

The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program is a federal rental assistance initiative administered locally by Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) across North Carolina. If approved, you may receive a voucher to help pay rent directly to your landlord. To qualify, your household must usually earn below 50% of the area median income, meet citizenship or eligible immigration criteria, and satisfy background check requirements.

How to Apply for Section 8 in North Carolina: Step-by-Step

Applications for Section 8 are processed by different local PHAs throughout the state. Each PHA may have its own waitlist and process, but these core steps apply everywhere in North Carolina:

1. Find Your Local Public Housing Agency (PHA)

• Use the HUD PHA Contact List to locate the PHA serving your city or county.
• Your PHA will explain local waitlist status and how to begin an application.

2. Review Section 8 Eligibility Requirements

• Check the 2024 North Carolina income limits for your area.
• Gather important documents like proof of income, Social Security numbers, and IDs for all household members.

3. Complete the Section 8 Pre-Application

• Most PHAs require you to fill out a pre-application or initial intake form. When the waitlist opens, this form collects basic eligibility information.
• Example: For Raleigh, use the Raleigh Housing Authority's online application (typically announced when open).
• Practical tip: Complete your pre-application as soon as the waitlist opens—spots fill quickly.

4. Provide Required Documentation

• Your PHA will request official documentation. This may include:
  • Pay stubs, benefit letters, or tax forms to verify income
  • Photo identification (driver’s license, state ID)
  • Social Security cards for all household members
  • Birth certificates or immigration documents

5. Wait for the PHA to Process Your Application

• Many North Carolina waitlists are long—sometimes several months or years. The PHA will notify you about your status and contact you when a voucher becomes available.

Official Section 8 Form in North Carolina

• Section 8 Pre-Application Form
  
  • Name: Varies by PHA (commonly called "Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Pre-Application")
  • When and how: Use this form during an open waitlist period. For example, if living in Charlotte, use the Charlotte Housing Authority online pre-application portal when available.
  • Official source: Find your local PHA and forms using the North Carolina HUD PHA search tool.

Once the pre-application is approved and your spot comes up, you’ll complete a full application and verify your household’s eligibility before a voucher is issued.

What Happens Next?

If you receive a Section 8 voucher, you’ll need to search for a rental that meets PHA and HUD standards. The PHA inspects rental units for safety and health before you can move in. You will then sign a lease with the landlord and the PHA will pay its portion of the rent directly.

Tenant Rights and Where to Turn for Help

Your basic rights as a renter in North Carolina are protected under the North Carolina Residential Rental Agreements Act. If you have a dispute or need help, the North Carolina Court System is the official tribunal handling residential tenancy issues, including evictions and landlord-tenant disputes.

Frequently Asked Questions about Section 8 in North Carolina

1. How do I know if I qualify for Section 8 in North Carolina?
   Eligibility is based primarily on your household income, size, and citizenship status. Check the income limits for your county and contact your local PHA for detailed requirements.
2. How long is the Section 8 waitlist in North Carolina?
   Wait times vary by location and can range from several months to several years, depending on demand and funding.
3. Can I apply for Section 8 at more than one PHA?
   Yes. You may apply to multiple PHAs in North Carolina to increase your chances.
4. Do I have to be a resident of North Carolina to apply?
   You can apply as a non-resident, but some PHAs may prioritize local applicants or require you to live in the area for a certain time after receiving a voucher.
5. What happens if my income changes after I apply?
   You must report any changes to your PHA immediately. Income changes may affect your eligibility or voucher amount.

Key Takeaways

• Section 8 can significantly lower your rent burden, but you must meet income, family, and legal requirements.
• Each North Carolina PHA manages its own application and waitlist process. Apply to more than one for better odds.
• Your rights and responsibilities as a Section 8 renter are protected by North Carolina law and your local courts.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• North Carolina HUD PHA Directory – Find your local agency for applications and status updates.
• North Carolina Housing Coalition – Offers guidance and advocacy to renters in need of assistance.
• North Carolina Court System: Landlord-Tenant Help – Official state tribunal resource for tenant legal concerns.
• North Carolina Residential Rental Agreements Act – The state’s primary rental law, including renter protections and landlord obligations.

---

1. North Carolina Residential Rental Agreements Act (N.C. Gen. Stat. § 42-38 et seq.)
2. HUD North Carolina Public Housing Agency Directory
3. North Carolina Housing Coalition
4. North Carolina Court System: Landlord and Tenant

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations