Learn How to Apply for Section 8 in Kentucky
Do you want to submit a Section 8 application in Kentucky? If so, you must first review the submission process. The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) ensures that the requirements for the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program are relatively the same. However, the Kentucky Housing Corporation (KHC) has the authority to control the submission methods in the state.
You may apply for Section 8 in Kentucky online or in person. On one hand, you may prefer applying online so that the form is submitted from the comfort of your own home. On the other hand, you can apply in person if you do not have access to the internet or you want a caseworker to answer any questions. Keep in mind that you have the right to request personalized assistance if you have a disability.
When can I submit a Section 8 application in Kentucky?
Unfortunately, you may not submit a Section 8 housing application in Kentucky during certain periods of time, as the waitlists in the state are often closed due to a large number of applicants. However, you may apply if a waitlist in the state reopens.
You also have the right to send an application to PHAs that are not in your county. However, applicants who live in those counties will receive preference. Remember that you will still have a chance at receiving vouchers, especially if you have an extremely low income.
If a waitlist opens, you can fill out the Section 8 application online for free on the KHC website. The online portal is available 24/7 when applications are being accepted. This website will have announcements posted before the waitlist opens so that you have time to prepare.
If you are applying in person, you must visit your local Public Housing Agency (PHA) during regular business hours. As such, make sure to check the office’s business hours before visiting.
What documents do I need to apply for Section 8 in Kentucky?
The HUD application for Section 8 will ask you questions about your identity, income, household size and more. Thus, it is important to have certain documents handy as you complete the application in order for your information to be verified. Important documents that must be evaluated include:
- Proof of citizenship, such as a U.S. birth certificate or passport
- Proof of non-citizenship, such as a visa card or permanent resident card
- Proof of Social Security Numbers (SSNs) for you and your family members, such as Social Security cards or W-2 forms that list SSNs
- Proof of income, such as a recent paycheck, W-2 form or letter from your employer
- Proof of assets or resources, such as bank statements, documentation from the SSA for benefits and more, if applicable
- Proof of housing expenses, such as a mortgage or lease agreement and utility bills
If you are completing the Kentucky Section 8 application online, you may not need to bring all of these documents to a local PHA. Moreover, you will be notified if any additional information is needed from you.
Tips for Completing the Kentucky Section 8 Housing Application
If you want to apply for Section 8 online or in person, you may want to get in touch with your PHA first. An employee will be able to answer any questions you have about the waitlist or the application process.
This can clear up any confusion before you apply for Section 8 housing so that you know what to expect. If you do decide to contact your PHA, here are a few important questions to ask:
- Will any waitlists for housing choice vouchers reopen soon?
- Which submission method do you recommend based on my circumstances?
- What types of applicants receive preference for the waitlist?
- Do I qualify for waitlist preference based on my circumstances?
In order to complete the Section 8 application form in KY, it is also important to understand waitlist preferences. PHAs are required by federal law to give preference to extremely low applicants and residents of their respective counties.
For example, a family with an income that is below 30 percent of the median income in its area is highly likely to receive vouchers. You will also be given priority if you are homeless. Get more insightful tips on the application process when you download our comprehensive guide.
Understanding the Kentucky Section 8 Application Process
Filling out the low income housing application in KY is relatively straightforward. Remember that there are two main submission methods. Be sure to contact your PHA to request additional help filling out the form if you need it. If you have a disability, you may request a sign language interpreter for free.
How to Apply for Section 8 Online in Kentucky
If you prefer to sign up for Section 8 online, you must do so through the official KHC website. The state’s online application system requires you to first register by creating a username and password and answer a few questions about yourself. As an example, the KHC will require the following information:
- Full name
- Date of birth
- Social Security Number (SSN)
- Email address
From there, you may begin a pre-application. If you cannot complete it in one sitting, you can save your work and come back to it later.
How to Submit the Kentucky Section 8 Housing Application in Person
Do you want to sign up for Section 8 in person? If so, you must contact the PHA in your county. Overall, there are many different PHAs in Kentucky. The HUD website also offers a list of offices, along with contact information for each office.
Some offices allow you to make appointments in advance, while others accept online walk-in requests. In either case, remember to bring your personal documents with you. This includes proof of identity, proof of address, proof of your SSN and more.
Note: Some housing authorities may allow you to submit an application by mail. If you prefer this submission method, ask your PHA about it.
What happens after I apply for Section 8 in Kentucky?
If you complete and submit the housing authority application online, you will receive a submission notice. This explains that your application was received and will be reviewed in a certain amount of time.
If you submit the form in person, a caseworker will explain the next steps. You will receive a written notice if your application is denied or approved.