Learn How to Apply for Section 8 Housing in Wyoming
Submitting a Section 8 application in Wyoming is the first step you must take to get a housing choice voucher. You can apply for Section 8 with any public housing agency (PHA) in the state. There are multiple PHAs to choose from, and you can even apply for help with more than one organization at a time.
Each housing authority receives funding from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). However, PHAs are independent from one another. Therefore, the Section 8 housing application process may differ slightly depending on where you sign up. Read below to learn how to complete a HUD application in Wyoming and discover what happens after you submit your form.
When can I submit a Section 8 application in Wyoming?
Most PHAs use waiting lists because there are not enough vouchers available for every eligible family. You can only apply for Section 8 housing when a PHA has its waiting list open.
In most cases, PHAs do not allow you to access their HUD housing application materials when a waiting list is closed. If that is the case, you need to wait until the list reopens.
Unfortunately, waiting lists usually have many families on them, and you may need to wait for a long time before spots open up on the list. PHAs announce when you can apply for low income housing by posting notifications in newspapers, online or on radio shows. If you are waiting to apply, it is important to look for these notices.
Commonly, waiting lists will close soon after they open. You may miss your chance to sign up for Section 8 if you wait too long. Remember that you are allowed to apply for help with any PHA of your choosing. If your preferred housing authority is not currently taking applications or you have missed your opportunity, you can apply with a different organization in the state.
What documents do I need to apply for Section 8 in Wyoming?
The PHA will need to verify your identity, Social Security Number (SSN), date of birth, household composition, income, citizenship status and other factors that affect your eligibility. Therefore, your Section 8 application form will usually need to include some or all of the following documents:
- Photo ID
- Birth certificate
- Citizenship or immigration paperwork
- Pay stubs or tax returns
- Benefit award letters
- Social Security card
In some cases, PHAs may request that your initial Section 8 application includes these documents. Other times, a housing authority may only need to verify your identity once your name is selected from the waiting list.
During the housing authority application process, a PHA may also need to check your eligibility by contacting banks, employers or other organizations directly. You may need to sign a consent form that gives the PHA permission to verify your details.
Tips for Completing the Wyoming Section 8 Housing Application
When you fill out a low income housing application in Wyoming, it is beneficial to understand how PHAs process forms and choose families for vouchers. In many cases, housing authorities use local preferences to determine who can get a voucher first. You may qualify for a preference if you:
- Are a senior.
- Have a disability.
- Are a veteran.
- Have been a victim of domestic violence.
- Were displaced from home.
- Are living in substandard housing.
Qualifying for a preference on your Section 8 housing application might mean that you are placed higher on a waiting list. This may reduce your overall wait time. However, there is no guarantee that you will receive a voucher more quickly.
To make the Section 8 application process go more smoothly, it is important to fill out your form accurately and completely. Generally, submitting a form with blank answers will lead to delays.
A PHA may also reject your application entirely if it is missing important information. If a question does not apply to you, it is usually better to write “None” or “N/A” in an answer box rather than leaving it blank.
Finally, make sure your Section 8 application form is signed by every adult member of your household. Get more tips for filling out a HUD application correctly by reading our full guide here.
Understanding the Wyoming Section 8 Application Process
You may be able to submit a Section 8 application online, in person or via mail. However, be mindful that certain PHAs will have one preferred application method that you must use.
How to Apply for Section 8 Online in Wyoming
If your PHA has a website, it may allow you to sign up for assistance online. You can always fill out Section 8 application online free of charge, due to the fact that PHAs and other organizations are not allowed to make you pay a fee.
After filling out an application online, you may receive a confirmation number. If so, be sure to save it for future reference.
How to Submit the Wyoming Section 8 Housing Application in Person
You can usually sign up for Section 8 in person by visiting your PHA’s office. Before stopping in, it may help to call ahead to confirm the office hours and application policies.
How to Apply for Section 8 Housing by Mail
Many PHAs will mail you a paper application form if you are unable to apply for help online or in person. Contact your housing authority to see if you can receive an application via mail.
What happens after I apply for Section 8 in Wyoming?
After you submit your Section 8 application in WY, you will more than likely be placed onto a waiting list. However, PHAs sometimes have vouchers available immediately.
If you are added to a waiting list, it is important to tell the PHA about changes to your address, income or family composition. Failing to report new information might make it hard for the housing agency to contact you or determine your final eligibility.
Once your Section 8 application form is processed and you receive a voucher, you may begin looking for rental housing. The unit you choose will need to meet a few requirements and pass a PHA health and safety inspection.