Section 811 Housing Assistance for Disabled

Section 811 provides affordable housing for those with Disabilities. The program can assist you by subsidizing your payments to the amount you can afford to pay. The subsidized rent amount is either 30% of your net income or 10% of gross income.

Finding suitable and affordable housing is a cornerstone of well-being and independence, yet it can be a significant hurdle, especially for individuals with disabilities. Section 811 of the National Housing Act offers a vital pathway to accessible and affordable housing. This detailed guide explores Section 811, providing essential information on eligibility, application procedures, and related resources.

What is Section 811 Housing Assistance?

Section 811 is a federal program that enables individuals with disabilities to live more independently within their communities. It achieves this goal by providing funding to develop and subsidize affordable rental housing specifically designed to meet the needs of people with disabilities. This program isn’t just about providing housing; it’s about fostering inclusion and independence.

The core function of Section 811 is to subsidize rental payments, thereby ensuring that housing costs are manageable for those who qualify. The amount of rent paid by the tenant is carefully calculated to be affordable, typically set at either 30% of their adjusted net income or 10% of their gross income. This calculation ensures that housing remains within reach for individuals on fixed incomes or with limited earning potential.

To gain a broader understanding of how this program fits within the larger landscape of support systems, consider exploring resources that detail “What is SSDI and SSI, Are They Different?”: What is SSDI and SSI, Are They Different?

Who Qualifies for Section 811 Housing?

Eligibility for Section 811 housing assistance is determined by a set of specific criteria.

Basic Requirements

To be eligible for Section 811, the following basic requirements generally apply:

A household must include at least one person with a disability. The definition of disability under Section 811 is broad, encompassing physical disabilities, developmental disabilities, and mental illness. This inclusive definition ensures that the program serves a diverse population with varying needs.
Household income must fall within certain limits. Generally, this means that the household’s income should be less than 50% of the median income for the city or county where the application is made. However, it’s crucial to verify this, as some cities or specific apartment communities may have their own income guidelines. Always consult the local housing authority or the property’s management for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Citizenship requirements can vary. While some apartment communities may require citizenship in accordance with specific housing guidelines, this is not a universal requirement. It’s essential to confirm the citizenship requirements with the specific property or your local housing agency.
Eligibility is not limited to families. Single applicants and households with children are also eligible to apply for and receive Section 811 housing assistance.

For those exploring different living arrangements, it might be helpful to learn more about “Assisted Living Waiver” options, which can be found here: Assisted Living Waiver

Disqualifiers

While Section 811 strives to expand housing opportunities, certain factors can potentially disqualify an applicant:

Criminal Records: A criminal record does not automatically disqualify an applicant, but it can be a factor in the eligibility determination. The nature and recency of the offense, as well as any history of rehabilitation, will be taken into consideration.
Rental History: A negative rental history, which may include a pattern of poor property maintenance, lease violations, or evictions, can negatively impact an application. It’s important to understand your rights and responsibilities as a renter; resources like this can be helpful: Landlord and Tenant Rental Housing Rights
Application Fraud: Providing false information on a Section 811 application is a serious offense. It constitutes a federal crime and can result in significant penalties, including imprisonment for up to 5 years.

How to Apply for Section 811 Housing

The application process for Section 811 housing assistance involves several key steps:

Applications for Section 811 housing can only be submitted when the waiting list is open. This is a critical point to remember, as application windows can be limited.
Step 1: Contact Your Local Housing Agency: The first step is to contact your local housing agency. This agency can provide essential information about the application process, including whether applications are submitted online or if paper forms are required. You can also visit their website, as paper forms are often available for download.
Step 2: Complete the Application: The next step is to complete the application form. If you need assistance with this process, a social worker or another qualified professional can provide valuable support. The application will typically request personal information, such as your date of birth, full name, and Social Security number. You will also likely need to provide details about your housing history, previous income, and current sources of income.
Step 3: Follow Directions Carefully: It is crucial to carefully and diligently follow all instructions provided by your housing agency. Failure to adhere to these instructions can jeopardize your application and potentially lead to its termination.

Navigating the complexities of housing applications can be challenging. For those considering other options, it may be useful to explore information on “How to Apply for Section 202” housing, which serves elderly households: How to Apply for Section 202

What to Do After Applying for Section 811

After you have submitted your Section 811 application, there are several important things to keep in mind:

Application Processing: It generally takes a few weeks for your application to be processed. The exact processing time can vary, so it’s advisable to check with your local housing agency for an estimate.
Waiting List Confirmation: Once your application has been processed, your position on the waiting list will be confirmed by your property manager. It is essential to keep a record of this information, including your waitlist position, the contact information for your property management and housing office, and your application’s confirmation number.
Waiting List Expectations: If your waitlist time estimate is not immediate, you should be prepared to wait for several months, and in some cases, up to a year or even longer. During this waiting period, it is crucial to maintain regular contact with your housing agency and property manager.
Regular Communication: Check your waitlist status frequently and promptly update your contact information as needed. This proactive approach will ensure that you do not miss any important updates or notifications regarding your application.
Request to be Approved (RTA): When a unit becomes available, your property manager will send a “Request to be Approved” (RTA). This is a necessary step before you can officially move into the unit.
Final In-Person Interview: The final step in the process is to attend a final in-person interview. Depending on the specific circumstances, this interview may require the participation of all adults who will be living in the unit or just the applicant. It is essential to make the necessary arrangements to attend this appointment on time.

To understand how Section 811 fits into the broader context of government support, consider exploring resources that detail “How Will the American Rescue Plan Help Low-Income Families?”: How Will the American Rescue Plan Help Low-Income Families?

What is a Section 811 Request?

A Section 811 Request, often abbreviated as RTA, is a formal request sent by your property manager to initiate the process of inspecting a unit that has been designated for you. This inspection is a crucial step to ensure that the unit meets the necessary standards and is suitable for occupancy. Once the inspection has been successfully completed and approved, you will be cleared to move into your new home.

Section 8 vs. Section 811: Key Differences

It is important to understand that Section 8 and Section 811 are distinct programs that serve different purposes:

Section 8 and Section 811 are not the same.
Section 8, also known as the Housing Choice Voucher Program, provides subsidized housing assistance to low-income families. For more detailed information on Section 8, you can refer to this resource: The Steps to Section 8 or information on How to Apply for Emergency Section 8
Section 811, on the other hand, is specifically designed to provide subsidized housing for individuals with disabilities.

To further explore different types of housing assistance, you might find it helpful to learn about “What are Housing Grants?”: What are Housing Grants?

Frequently Asked Questions

Section 811 FAQ

What is Section 811 and how does it help people with disabilities?

Section 811 is a federal program that subsidizes rental housing for people with disabilities, enabling them to live more independently. It helps keep rent affordable, typically at 30% of a tenant’s adjusted net income or 10% of gross income.

Who qualifies for Section 811 housing assistance?

Eligibility typically requires that your household include at least one person with a disability, and the entire household’s income must be below 50% of the area median income. Some apartment communities have their own rules, so always check local guidelines. For broader info on disability programs, see HUD Housing Programs for the Disabled .

How do I apply for Section 811?

First, contact your local housing agency or the specific property that has Section 811 units. You’ll fill out an application, provide income details, and show proof of disability. If accepted, you’ll join a waiting list until a suitable unit becomes available. For application tips, you can also look at how to apply for Section 202 for a similar process.

What if the Section 811 waiting list is closed?

Section 811 waiting lists can open and close based on local demand. If the list is closed, keep an eye on public notices or sign up for alerts. In the meantime, you can explore other low-income housing programs, such as Section 8 or state-specific assistance. See Section 8 Affordable Housing Guide .

Does Section 811 cover all of my rent?

Not entirely. Section 811 sets your portion at either 30% of adjusted net income or 10% of gross income, whichever is higher. The remainder is subsidized, making the total rent cost more manageable for a person with a disability.

What disqualifies someone from Section 811?

Major issues like certain criminal convictions, a pattern of lease violations, or providing false application info can lead to denial. Each property follows federal rules but also may have local standards. If you have prior criminal history, see Landlord and Tenant Rental Housing Rights for guidance on your rights.

How does Section 811 differ from Section 8?

Section 8 (Housing Choice Vouchers) serves low-income households broadly, while Section 811 specifically targets people with disabilities. Both offer rental subsidies, but 811 units are designed with accessibility in mind. Need details on Section 8? Check Steps to Section 8 .

What happens after my Section 811 application is approved?

You’ll likely be placed on a waiting list. When a unit is available, the property manager will contact you for an inspection and final interview. After you complete the lease formalities and your unit passes any final checks, you can move in. Keep your contact info updated so you don’t miss important notices.

Additional Resources

For more information and resources related to housing for individuals with disabilities, consider exploring the following: