Learn How to Apply for Section 8 Housing in Nebraska
The Nebraska Section 8 application is relatively easy to complete if you have reviewed the submission process. There are three main ways to apply: online, in person and by mail. Online applications are usually the most popular because they take the least amount of time. However, you may choose to apply using another method if you do not have access to the internet or you need help completing the form.
In order to apply for Section 8, you must review the submission guidelines. Some counties may allow you to apply by fax or email, while others will not. You must also make sure that your Public Housing Agency (PHA), also known as a housing authority, is currently accepting applications. Keep in mind that some submission guidelines will be the same from county to county, as required by the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
When can I submit a Section 8 application in Nebraska?
The date and time during which you can submit a Section 8 housing application in NE depend on your county. Some counties currently have open waitlists, while others have closed their lists until further notice. For instance, the Douglas County Housing Authority (DCHA) posts a notice in newspapers and on its website 10 days before opening its Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program waitlist.
Counties that currently allow you to fill out a Section 8 application online for free, such as the Lincoln Housing Authority, will keep their application portals open until further notice. As a result, you may apply during any time of day. A notice will be posted on such county websites if the waitlist is about to close.
Applications submitted by mail, fax or email may also be submitted during any time of day. If you are submitting the form in person, you will need to visit your PHA during business hours. PHAs usually post their business hours on their websites.
What documents do I need to apply for Section 8 in Nebraska?
As you complete the Section 8 HUD application, you will need to reference certain personal documents. These will help you answer the questions on the form.
Moreover, you will need this paperwork to verify your information with a PHA. Certain housing agencies require you to send in all the following documentation with your application:
- Social Security cards for you and each family member.
- Legal guardianship documents for each dependent family member. Qualifying proof includes birth certificates, legal power of attorney or court documents.
- Proof of earned income for each working family member.
- Proof of unearned income, such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and benefits from other federal assistance programs.
Whether you complete the Section 8 application online, in person or by mail, make sure that you submit all the documents required by your PHA. Your PHA may contact you if your application is missing certain documentation. If you do not provide this information in a certain amount of time, you risk having your submission rejected.
Tips for Completing the Nebraska Section 8 Housing Application
If you want to apply for Section 8 online in Nebraska, there are a few things to keep in mind. Namely, you must complete the entire application in order for it to be valid.
Once you have submitted the form, you may be prompted to print a receipt and an authorization of release form. Some housing authorities require you to sign and mail this form to your PHA’s address once you finish the application.
If you are unable to print the receipt or the form, your PHA will mail you these documents after processing your application. In the event that an applicant wants to apply for Section 8 housing in person or by mail, he or she may be required to send in a signed authorization of release form as well.
Note: The head of the household does not have to be the oldest family member. However, he or she must be at least 18 years of age.
You may also find it helpful to know what types of questions you will be asked on the application. For instance, you must provide the income level for all working family members.
However, you may not have to disclose the income of family members who are 17 years of age or younger. You must also explain whether any family members have ever been convicted of a crime.
Lastly, you may find it helpful to contact your PHA before filling out the Section 8 application form if you have any lingering questions. Useful questions to discuss include:
- Will I qualify for housing choice preference based on my information?
- How long does it take to receive an approval or denial notice?
- How long will I be on the waitlist if I am approved?
To learn other insightful application tips, download our comprehensive guide.
Understanding the Nebraska Section 8 Application Process
The low income housing application may take you roughly 30 minutes to complete. The amount of time necessary to complete the form depends on your submission method and how much information you have to provide.
In general, the larger the family, the more information required and the more time it will take. The process may also take longer if you need additional help completing the form. This may be true if you have a disability or an impairment.
How to Apply for Section 8 Online in Nebraska
To complete the Nebraska HUD housing application online, visit your housing authority’s website. Most housing authorities in the state offer their own application portals. You may need to create an account depending on the website.
Some housing authorities also require you to read a document that outlines your responsibilities during the process. As an example, you may be charged with committing fraud if you purposely enter incorrect information on your application.
As you apply for low income housing online, remember to check your work and make sure that it is accurate. Once you finish and click submit, you will receive further instructions.
How to Submit the Nebraska Section 8 Housing Application in Person
If you want to sign up for Section 8 in person, you must first obtain a copy of the application. You may do so by:
- Printing one from your PHA’s website.
- Visiting the office of your PHA.
- Requesting a form by email or phone.
Once you have the form, fill out all the required sections, sign and date it and bring it to your local PHA during business hours. Note that some PHAs may not allow you to apply in person.
How to Apply for Section 8 Housing by Mail
In order to submit a housing authority application in NE by mail, print or request the correct application form. Then, fill it out completely and mail it to the address provided on the form or on your PHA’s website.
Overall, the mailing address is usually the same as the PHA’s office location. Depending on your county, you may also send in your form by email or fax.
What happens after I apply for Section 8 in Nebraska?
Once you have submitted the Section 8 application, you may receive a decision in approximately 30 days. During that time, you may be asked to provide information that was missing from your submission.
If you are approved for the program, you will be placed on a waitlist. If you receive a denial notice, you may be able to request an informal review.