What is Section 8 Rental Assistance?

Section 8 Rental Assistance is a housing assistance program governed by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. It was authorized under an amendment to the Housing Act of 1937. The objective of tenant-based Section 8 is to provide direct rental assistance to property owners on behalf of very low-income families so that they may secure decent, safe, and sanitary housing in the marketplace. Assistance payments vary based on family income, the amount of rent charged, and utility costs for the unit. This assistance can continue once the family is employed and can ease the transition from welfare to self-sufficiency.

How to become a Landlord for Section 8 (HCV)

Thank you for your interest in the Human Services, Inc. (HSI) HUD Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher (HVC) Program. HSI subcontracts with the State of Indiana to operate the Section 8 Program in an area which includes beyond five miles from the city limits of Columbus and all of Decatur, Jackson, Johnson, and Shelby Counties. This is a general guide to policies, procedures, and regulations that govern the program.

The Section 8 HCV program is designed to fill the gap between what a family can afford to pay in rent and the actual rent payment. The success of the program depends on HSI being able to contract with the property managers and owners who have quality, affordable rental units.

All Section 8 HCV families and owners are subject to federal rules and regulations. HSI will make every effort to inform you of the program rules, and to advise you of how any new or revised rules affect your participation in the program.

We look forward to you becoming a partner in HSI's mission to provide affordable housing to low-income families in our five county areas. If you have any questions after reviewing this material, please contact the HSI Section 8 Department at 812-372-8407. Ask for Legitia Wilson or Tim Lovelace