The housing choice voucher program is the federal government’s major program for assisting very low-income families, the elderly, and the disabled to afford decent, safe, and sanitary housing in the private market. Since housing assistance is provided on behalf of the family or individual, participants are able to find their own housing, including single-family homes, townhouses and apartments.

Eligibility for a housing voucher is determined by the Public Housing Agency (PHA) based on the total annual gross income and family size and is limited to US citizens and specified categories of non-citizens who have eligible immigration status. In general, the family’s income may not exceed 50% of the median income for the county or metropolitan area in which the family chooses to live.

During the application process, the PHA will collect information on family income, assets, and family composition. The PHA will verify this information with other local agencies, your employer and bank, and will use the information to determine program eligibility and the amount of the housing assistance payment. Even if you do not meet the financial requirements for a voucher, you may still be eligible for other forms of housing assistance. Contact your local PHA for details.

In order to qualify for a housing choice voucher, you must have an annual household income (before taxes) that is below the following amounts:

Apply for a Housing Choice Voucher

If you are interested in applying for a voucher, contact your local PHA:

Gloucester Housing Authority
259 Washington Street
Gloucester, MA 01930
(978) 281-4770
http://www.ghama.com

Rockport Housing Authority
13 Millbrook Park
Rockport, MA 01966
(978) 546-3181

Essex Housing Authority
Chebacco Terrace
Essex, MA 01929
(978) 768-6821