Documents Required for Section 8

Apply to your local Public Housing Authority (PHA) with these documents ready. Incomplete applications are a common reason for delays.

Identity & Household

  • Photo ID for all adult household members
  • Birth certificates for all household members
  • Social Security numbers for all household members
  • Immigration status documentation (if applicable)

Income

  • Pay stubs from the last 30 days
  • Benefit award letters (Social Security, disability, TANF)
  • Most recent tax return
  • Bank statements from the last 3 months

Current Housing

  • Current lease or landlord contact information
  • Any eviction history documentation

Tips

Apply to every open waitlist — Section 8 waitlists can be 1-5 years long. Check HUD's PHA finder at HUD.gov for open waitlists in your area.