Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program
If you have a Section 8 Voucher, you will find links on this page to important information you need to successfully utilize this program. If you do not have a voucher and would like to learn more about the program and how to apply, click here.
Who is my caseworker?
Caseloads are arranged alphabetically by last name as follows:
A-Cruz: Tabitha Womack ext. 1038 tabby@hajc.net
Cuf – Hick: Signe Wilson ext. 1011 signe@hajc.net
Hig – McL: Zuhey Rizo ext. 1030 zuhey@hajc.net
Med-Seg: Pam Hislip ext. 1025 pam@hajc.net
Sel – Z Lori Eddings ext. 1031 lori@hajc.net
Supervisor Charlene Peak ext. 1010 charlene@hajc.net
When do I report changes in my household or income?
You have 10 days from the date of the change to report any changes in household composition or income to your caseworker. It is best to report changes in writing or by email so there is a record of your report. If you are reporting a change that will make your rent go down, you must report it no later than the 15th of the month to give your caseworker enough time to process the paperwork necessary to change your rent.
If you do not report changes that affect your assistance, you could jeopardize your housing voucher. Even if it’s not a big change, it’s always best to call and double check with your caseworker.
If you would like to add an adult to your household, you must have them apply with your landlord first. Once your landlord gives their approval, you must bring in an approval letter from your landlord and fill out a packet. Once we approve them, you will receive written notification and they can then move in to your household. DO NOT MOVE ANYONE INTO YOUR HOME BEFORE THEY ARE APPROVED. MARRIAGE DOES NOT GUARANTEE APPROVAL. If they are not approved, you will receive notification of this as well.
To add a minor to your household, please fill out a packet and return it to our office. We will need a copy of their social security card before adding them to the household.
What are the rules for Section 8?
The rules for any federal program can be complicated. The Section 8 Administrative Plan provides guidance to HAJC staff on how to administer the program. You can also access the federal guidelines at: www.hud.gov/offices/pih/regs/fedregs.cfm. As always, your caseworker is happy to help you if have any questions.
How do I prepare for an inspection?
You will have a Housing Quality Standards (HQS) Inspection no less than once per year. The purpose of this inspection it to ensure that your home meets standards that make it decent, safe and sanitary. We have developed an Inspection Guide to make things easier for you and for our inspectors. If you have maintenance issues that need to be addressed, please report them to your landlord immediately.
What if I need a reasonable accommodation?
A Reasonable Accommodation is a modification to our program rules, practices or to a physical structure that enables participants with disabilities to have equal access to our programs and structures as those without a disability.
If you need us to change the way we do business to accommodate your disability, please let us know right away and we will do our best to ensure that your needs are met. You may fill out this request form or contact your caseworker and discuss your request with them.
For more specific information on reasonable accommodations, please review Chapter 1 of the Section 8 Administrative Plan.
What if I disagree with a decision that is made?
If you disagree with the way your rent is calculated, that someone was denied admission to your household, etc. you should contact your Section 8 Caseworker first and discuss the action with them. If you are still not satisfied you may contact the Section 8 Supervisor, whose contact information is listed above. If you are still unhappy with the decision, you may request a hearing. During the hearing you will have an opportunity to present your version of events and/or any evidence you may have to a hearings officer. Your caseworker will be present as well and will present their facts in the case. The hearings officer will then make a decision based on the facts presented at the hearing and the rules and regulations governing the Section 8 Voucher program.
How do I move with my voucher?
If you would like to move, there are some important things you need to know. This Guide to Moving will provide you with the guidance necessary to make this transition smooth and, aside from the actual move itself, relatively painless. Please read this carefully before finalizing your decision to move or paying any application fees or deposits to a new landlord.
Family Self Sufficiency Program
If you are a current voucher holder and interested in learning more about the Family Self Sufficiency Program, click here for more information.
Homeownership Voucher Program
HAJC provides a limited number of Homeownership Vouchers to current voucher program participants. To learn more about this opportunity and to see if you qualify, click here.