KPCB Edge — Keep Pushing Costs Back
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Module 4 of 6

While you wait

Lesson 2 of 2 in this module

Lesson 8 of 120% of the course done

Lesson 8

Spot waitlist scams

⏱ 2 min

Key points

  • Never pay anyone to fill out your application or move you up a list.
  • Only your housing agency decides who gets a voucher.
  • Report scams to the HUD Inspector General hotline: 1-800-347-3735.

Watch out for waitlist scams

HUD warns applicants not to pay anyone to fill out a housing assistance application for them and not to pay money to move up on a waiting list. Apply only through your local PHA, using the contact details on HUD's PHA list or the agency's own website. Only the agency decides who is eligible, and no outside website or company can get you a voucher faster.

HUD also warns that giving false information on a housing application is fraud. If someone tells you to lie on your application or asks you to pay for a spot on a list, report it to the HUD Office of Inspector General Hotline at 1-800-347-3735. TTY users can call (800) 877-8339.

If you need a place to stay now, the waitlist will not move fast enough. See our guide to emergency housing help. You can also use our benefit finder to see what other help you may qualify for.

From our guide: How to Check if You're on the Section 8 Waitlist After Applying

Quick check

Someone offers to move you up the waiting list for a fee. What is it?

Want more detail? Read our full guide: How to Check if You're on the Section 8 Waitlist After Applying