Union County Section 8 Waiting List Opens June 1, 2026

If you've been searching for affordable housing assistance in Union County, the Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) waiting list opening on June 1, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. may be one of the most important opportunities you'll have this year. Waiting list openings like this one are rare — many PHAs across the country keep their lists closed for months or even years at a time. When a list opens, it often closes again within days, so preparation is everything.

This guide walks you through what the Housing Choice Voucher program is, who may be eligible, what documents you'll need, and how to approach the application process with realistic expectations.

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Data Snapshot

According to HUD's most recent data available at HUD.gov, the Housing Choice Voucher program serves approximately 2.3 million households nationwide, making it the largest federal rental assistance program in the United States. Nationally, the average voucher holder pays no more than 30% of their adjusted monthly income toward rent, with the federal government covering the remainder up to a locally-set payment standard. In many high-cost metro areas, payment standards can range from roughly $1,200 to over $2,500 per month depending on unit size and local fair market rents — though benefit amounts vary by household size, income, and local PHA policy. HUD updates Fair Market Rents (FMRs) annually; the FY2025 FMRs for Union County-area markets reflect continued upward pressure on rental costs, reinforcing why voucher access remains highly competitive.

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What Is the Housing Choice Voucher Program?

The Housing Choice Voucher program — commonly called Section 8 — is a federal rental assistance program administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and managed locally by Public Housing Authorities (PHAs). In Union County, the local PHA oversees the program, sets local payment standards, and manages the waiting list.

Unlike public housing, where you live in a government-owned unit, a Housing Choice Voucher allows you to find housing in the private rental market. Once you receive a voucher, you locate a landlord willing to participate in the program, and the PHA pays a portion of your rent directly to that landlord. You pay the difference — generally no more than 30–40% of your adjusted monthly income.

Who May Be Eligible?

Eligibility for the Housing Choice Voucher program is primarily based on:

  • Income limits: Generally, households must earn at or below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for their county. HUD requires that at least 75% of new vouchers go to households at or below 30% of AMI — meaning the lowest-income households are often prioritized.
  • Household size: Income limits scale with the number of people in your household.
  • Citizenship or eligible immigration status: At least one household member must be a U.S. citizen or have eligible immigration status.
  • Background screening: PHAs may screen applicants for certain criminal history, though policies vary.
  • Current housing situation: Some PHAs give preference to households that are homeless, living in substandard housing, or paying more than 50% of their income toward rent.

Because income thresholds are tied to AMI — not a fixed dollar figure — they shift annually and vary significantly by location. Check directly with the Union County PHA or HUD's income limit tool at HUD.gov for the most current figures applicable to your household.

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Before June 1: Build Your Document Checklist Now

The single most effective thing you can do before the waiting list opens is get your paperwork organized. Many applicants lose their spot — or have their application delayed — because they're missing basic documentation. Here's what you'll typically need:

Identity and Household Documents - Government-issued photo ID for all adult household members (driver's license, state ID, or passport) - Birth certificates for all household members, including children - Social Security cards or documentation of Social Security numbers for all household members - Immigration documents, if applicable (green card, visa, etc.)

Income and Financial Documents - Recent pay stubs (typically the last 2–4 weeks) for all employed household members - Most recent federal tax return (Form 1040) - Documentation of any other income: Social Security award letters, SSI/SSDI benefit letters, child support orders, unemployment benefit statements - Bank statements (last 1–3 months) for all accounts

Housing History - Current lease or rental agreement - Landlord contact information - Documentation of any eviction history (be prepared to explain circumstances)

Other Potentially Required Documents - Proof of any disability (if claiming a disability preference) - Documentation of homelessness or housing instability (if claiming a preference category) - Veteran status documentation (DD-214), if applicable

Having these documents scanned or photocopied in advance will save you significant stress on and after June 1.

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How to Apply: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Confirm the Application Portal In the days leading up to June 1, visit the Union County PHA's official website to confirm whether applications will be accepted online, by mail, or in person. Many PHAs have moved to online portals, which can fill up quickly. Bookmark the page and set a reminder for 8:45 a.m. on June 1.

Step 2: Apply as Early as Possible on June 1 The waiting list opens at 9:00 a.m. on June 1, 2026. Some PHAs use a lottery system (randomizing placement regardless of when you apply within a window), while others use a first-come, first-served approach. Either way, applying promptly reduces the risk of the list closing before you submit.

Step 3: Complete the Application Accurately Provide complete and accurate information. Errors or omissions can delay processing or result in removal from the list. Double-check names, Social Security numbers, and income figures before submitting.

Step 4: Record Your Confirmation Number After submitting, you should receive a confirmation number or reference ID. Save this. It's your proof of application and your way to check your status later.

Step 5: Keep Your Contact Information Updated If you move or change your phone number or email address after applying, notify the PHA immediately. Failing to respond to a PHA outreach letter — even if you never received it — can result in removal from the waiting list.

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What Happens After You Apply?

Being placed on the waiting list is not the same as receiving a voucher. Depending on funding availability and the number of applicants ahead of you, the wait can range from several months to several years. During that time:

  • The PHA may send periodic letters asking you to confirm you still want to remain on the list. Always respond.
  • Your income and household composition will be re-verified when you reach the top of the list.
  • If your circumstances change significantly (income increase, household members added or removed), you may need to update your application.

While you wait, it's worth exploring other housing assistance options that may be available to you, including HUD-assisted multifamily housing, local emergency rental assistance programs, and state-level housing programs.

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If You Miss This Opening

If the Union County waiting list closes before you can apply — or if you're not selected — don't stop there. Other PHAs in neighboring counties may have open lists. HUD's resource locator at HUD.gov can help you find PHAs in your area. Benefits.gov also maintains a searchable database of federal and state assistance programs that may be available to households in your situation.

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People Also Ask

How long is the Section 8 waiting list in Union County? Waiting times vary significantly based on funding, the number of applicants, and local demand. In many competitive markets, waits of one to three years or longer are common. The Union County PHA can provide the most current estimate once the list opens and application volume is known.

Can I apply for Section 8 in multiple counties at the same time? Yes. There is no federal rule preventing you from applying to multiple PHAs simultaneously. Each PHA has its own waiting list and application process. Applying to several PHAs in your region may improve your chances of receiving assistance sooner.

What income is too high for Section 8 in Union County? Eligibility is generally set at 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for your household size, though most vouchers go to households at or below 30% of AMI. Because AMI figures change annually and vary by location, check HUD's current income limits tool at HUD.gov for Union County-specific thresholds.

What disqualifies someone from the Housing Choice Voucher program? Common disqualifying factors may include certain criminal convictions (particularly drug-related or violent offenses), prior eviction from federally assisted housing for drug-related activity, and failure to meet citizenship or eligible immigration status requirements. Policies vary by PHA, so contact the Union County PHA directly for their specific screening criteria.

What happens if I move after applying to the waiting list? You must notify the Union County PHA of any address or contact information changes. Failure to respond to PHA correspondence — even due to a missed letter — can result in removal from the waiting list. Keep your contact details current throughout the entire waiting period.

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Program eligibility and availability vary by state. Not affiliated with any government agency.

Last reviewed: July 2026