How to Get Section 811: Application and Waiting Lists

The Section 811 Supportive Housing for Persons with Disabilities program helps very low-income adults with disabilities find affordable housing. This initiative aims to support independent living within the community.

Section 811 Program Overview

The Section 811 program provides rental assistance and access to supportive services for very low-income individuals with disabilities. Its primary goal is to empower individuals to live independently in integrated community settings. The program is managed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and implemented through various entities.

State housing agencies, public housing authorities (PHAs), and non-profit housing providers play roles in its operation. This program is project-based, which means the rental assistance is tied to specific housing units or developments, not to the individual tenant. This differs from tenant-based vouchers, where the assistance can be used by the individual in various housing options.

The traditional Section 811 program provides interest-free capital advances and operating subsidies to non-profit developers to finance the creation of supportive rental housing. There is also a Project Rental Assistance (PRA) component, which allocates rental assistance to housing units within affordable housing projects that receive capital funding from other sources. These capital advances do not need to be repaid if the housing remains available for very low-income persons with disabilities for at least 40 years.

Determining Eligibility

To qualify for Section 811 assistance, individuals must meet specific criteria primarily related to disability status and income. Applicants must have a verifiable disability. This involves official documentation from a medical professional or qualification for programs like Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).

Applicants must also meet very low-income thresholds established by HUD. These income limits vary based on location and household size, and they are defined as 50% or less of the Area Median Income (AMI). Many units prioritize individuals at the extremely low-income level, which is 30% or less of the AMI.

HUD annually adjusts these income limits based on Median Family Income estimates for each metropolitan and non-metropolitan area. Some specific housing providers may have additional eligibility requirements beyond these core HUD guidelines.

Finding Housing Opportunities

Finding Section 811 housing units involves identifying specific properties that participate in the program, as assistance is tied to the unit rather than being a portable voucher. You will not apply for this program through a central federal office. Instead, the application process occurs directly through specific housing providers or property managers.

Key resources for locating these opportunities include local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) and state housing finance agencies. Non-profit organizations specializing in housing for persons with disabilities can also be valuable contacts. Online search tools, such as HUD’s affordable housing locator, may also help identify participating properties. Some programs may also have specific referral processes, where a case manager or service provider initiates the application process on behalf of the individual.

Applying for Section 811 Assistance

Once a potential Section 811 housing opportunity is identified, the application process begins directly with the specific housing provider or property manager. The application focuses on verifying eligibility and gathering necessary documentation.

You will need to provide proof of income, which can include pay stubs, benefit statements, or other financial records. Verification of your disability status is also a required component of the application. This involves submitting medical documentation or proof of eligibility for specific disability benefits.

Additionally, applicants will need to provide identification, such as a photo ID and Social Security card. Some housing providers may request references as part of their application process. Submission methods may vary and could include in-person delivery, mail, or an online portal if available.

Understanding the Waiting List and Allocation Process

Due to significant demand and limited availability, Section 811 programs have waiting lists. These waiting lists can be extensive, reflecting the high need for affordable supportive housing.

The allocation process for units varies but considers the date of application. Some programs may also prioritize specific preferences, such as for individuals transitioning from institutions or those experiencing long-term homelessness. In certain situations, a lottery system might be used to select applicants from the waiting list.

The duration of waiting lists can range from several months to multiple years. An offer of housing is not immediate. When an applicant reaches the top of a waiting list, they are notified and may undergo a final interview and verification of eligibility before an offer is extended.