To apply for Section 8 housing, you’ll need to provide several documents to prove your identity, income, and eligibility. The exact requirements can vary slightly depending on your local Public Housing Authority (PHA), but here are the most commonly required documents:
🪪 Identification Documents
- Government-issued photo ID (for all adults 18+)
- Birth certificates (for all household members)
- Social Security cards (for everyone in the household)
- Proof of legal residency or citizenship (U.S. passport, naturalization papers, green card, etc.)
đź’° Income Verification
You must show your total household income to prove eligibility:
- Recent pay stubs (usually last 3–6)
- Tax returns or W-2 forms
- Bank statements
- Unemployment benefit letter (if applicable)
- Social Security SSI award letters
- Child support documentation
- Pension or retirement income (if any)
🏠Current Housing Situation
- Current lease or rent receipts
- Eviction notice (if applying under emergency conditions)
- Utility bills (to confirm residence)
🧾 Other Commonly Requested Documents
- Disability verification (doctor’s note or benefit letter)
- Proof of student status (for household members attending school)
- Veteran status documentation (if applicable)
- Signed consent forms for background and credit checks
âś… Pro Tips:
- Bring copies and originals if applying in person.
- Double-check with your local PHA, some ask for additional paperwork.
- Make sure all documents are current and not expired.
đź’¬ Got questions about a specific document or situation (like missing birth certificates or income changes)?
Drop them below, we’re here to help!
