Applying to the HCV Waiting List
The Housing Opportunities Commission generally opens
its Housing Choice Voucher Program (formerly known as
the “Section 8 Program”) wait list once a year.
You may ONLY apply for the HCV program while the wait
list is OPEN.
When the HCV wait list opens, it will be advertised
at least 30 days prior to the opening date on this website, and in local
newspapers, such as the Montgomery Gazette, Montgomery Journal,
and El Pregonero.
Applications will be available in all Montgomery
County libraries, County service centers, and on this website. The waiting
list will stay open for five (5) days. All applicants who submit an
application during the five-day opening of the HCV wait list will receive
a postcard from HOC within 90 days that acknowledges receipt of the
application.
What Happens After You Apply
All applications mailed to HOC with postmarks during
the five (5) days that the waiting list is open will be placed into a
"pool" of applicants, and names will be drawn at random by lottery over
the next 12 months. The names chosen will be invited by mail to
participate in the program.
If your Name is Chosen
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HOC will contact you by
mail, asking that you attend a Housing Choice Voucher Certification
Briefing. A date and time will be included in your letter. You will also
receive a packet of certification forms. These forms must
be completed prior to your appointment and you must bring
the forms, along with any documentation requested to your HOC meeting.
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If you do not speak
English, you may bring a translator with you to your appointment.
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During your first meeting
with HOC, you will meet with an HOC representative who will review your
information to determine if you are eligible to receive voucher
assistance. The HOC representative will review your annual household
income, your citizenship status, and he/she will initiate a criminal
background investigation on each adult member of the household (18 years
of age or older).
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If you are determined
eligible for HOC voucher assistance, you will receive a
letter notifying you of your eligibility for assistance. That letter
will also schedule you to attend a second appointment at HOC to receive
your voucher. Your voucher is proof that you are in the Housing Choice
Voucher program.
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If you are determined
ineligible for HOC voucher assistance, you will receive a
letter explaining why you were denied housing assistance and providing
information should you wish to contest the decision.
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Once you receive your
voucher, you will be given detailed instructions on how to go about
finding affordable housing.
