Funded by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Section 8 Program helps low-income families rent decent, safe and sanitary housing on the open market.  Families are responsible for finding their own housing and paying a portion of their income towards rent.  Participating families pay between 30% to 40% of their annual adjusted income for rent.

The housing unit must pass an inspection to insure that the unit meets HUD Housing Quality Standards.  If an item is found to be below standard, the owner must be willing to make the necessary repairs and to maintain the housing in good condition.

The contract rent for units being considered for the Section 8 Program must be within acceptable rent levels for the area.  The owner must sign a contract with the Housing Agency and a lease with the tenant for a minimum term of one year.

Unlike the public housing program, JMHA does not do background screening on the suitability of a family for tenancy.  However, we do check criminal records and other court records to determine if an applicant has convictions for violent criminal activity or drug-related activity.

The Section 8 Program also has a portability component.  A Section 8 voucher that is issued may be used anywhere in the United States, including Hawaii and Puerto Rico.  

Families under the Section 8 Program are also eligible to participate in the Family Self-Sufficiency Program.