HCV (Section 8)

Created by the Housing and Community Development Act of 1978, the Housing Choice Voucher program, also known as Section 8, provides assistance to eligible low- and moderate-income families to rent housing in the private market. Eligibility for this program is based on a family's gross annual income and family size.

The program works as a rental subsidy that allows families to pay a reasonable amount of their income toward their rent. Eligible families will receive a voucher to begin searching for housing. Generally, families will pay no more than 40 percent of their adjusted monthly income toward their rent share. The WHHA pays the remaining amount to the owner on the family's behalf. This payment to the owner is known as the Housing Assistance Payment.

Section 8 participants must comply with all program requirements, including completing their annual certification, accommodating Housing Quality Standards inspections, allowing property owners to make any needed repairs, and adhering to the terms of their lease.

The WHHA is one of four housing authorities in Polk County, FL to administer a Section 8 Programs. Our other housing partners include the Bartow Housing Authority, Lakeland Housing Authority and Lake Wales Housing Authority. 

Currently, our Section 8 waiting list is closed to new applicants. However, if you are a current voucher holder and searching for available housing in the area, please visit AffordableHousing.com.