Since the Missouri HUD Section 8 application takes a while to be processed and awarded to those who are eligible, applicants are advised to take the time to learn how to apply for Section 8 housing so that there are no inaccuracies on the application which could delay the process further. Several ways exist for Missouri residents to register for Section 8 housing programs, but the most popular way to do so is by using the online application for low income housing or to print it out and mail it in.
Learn How to Apply for Section 8 Housing in Missouri
In learning how to apply for Section 8 housing in one of the 111 counties in the state, Missouri residents should begin the process by speaking with a registered agent at the local housing authority. It is estimated that out of every 1000 renters, about 200 of those are rented by those who learned how to sign up for Section 8 in order to have quality housing. Since the competition is so great, filing out the HUD Section 8 application correctly is crucial to avoiding delays in processing. Those residents who use the help of a housing authority agent to fill out the HUD Section 8 application have a better chance of filling it out completely and providing the necessary documentation requested.
To be able to sign up for Section 8 in Missouri, applicants have to meet the minimum income requirements. The HUD Section 8 application requires that the applicant, and his or her household, make no more than 80 percent of the average salary in their county. Those who make only 30-50 percent of what others make in their county are considered very low income families and are often awarded a priority status. Those filling out the HUD Section 8 application who would like to find out if they meet salary requirements can do a simple online search, where all of the salaries are listed by counties.
The HUD Section 8 application will also ask applicants about the composition of the household; how many elderly, disabled or children under 18 are typical questions. To register for Section 8 housing programs in Missouri, no member of the household must have been convicted of a serious crime, still be in trouble with the law or be involved in criminal activities. Everyone who lives in the home must also be U.S. citizens or legal immigrants.
Learn How to Register for the Section 8 Housing Program in Missouri
While many Missouri residents choose to use the online application for low income housing, those who are uncertain about any portion of the Missouri HUD Section 8 application should go in person to the public housing authority for assistance in completing it. Regardless of the method used to fill out the HUD Section 8 application, documentation will be required. This documentation is used to verify the information that is placed on the HUD Section 8 application in order to qualify the applicant for housing assistance.
The HUD Section 8 application requires the following documentation:
- Social Security cards
- Rental history (current or old leases)
- Personal ID for all family members
- Proof of family income (Tax returns, pay stubs, etc.)
- List of assets
Learn How to Check the Status of a Section 8 Application in Missouri
After the HUD Section 8 application has been submitted, it can take up to two weeks to verify and process the application. During this time, there may be an interview scheduled so that an agent can speak directly with the applicant. Applicants who have submitted their HUD Section 8 application will have received a confirmation letter in the mail or via email. This letter will have the official HUD Section 8 application control number, or registration number. This number is used to check status for Section 8 applications after the two-week processing period has passed. Most HUD Section 8 applications that are marked eligible have their names entered onto the official waiting list for their area. Once vacancies become available, the candidate’s name that is at the top of the list will be contacted with instructions about next steps. In most cases, once admitted to the program, the candidate should check status for Section 8 applications and the waiting list frequently as they update often.