How does Section 8 work?

Question

I currently am in apartments AMHA that go by my income. I just recently got a good job so I really dont get much help I pay regular full price there. I have gotten a section 8 voucher for a house - apartments were sold. How does Section 8 work? Does it still go by income and I will be paying normal for a house also. I found a home asking 700.00 a month. (Aprtment was 600.00) they offered the landlord a rent of 550.00. So Are they paying the 550.00 or bascily I still am? I do want a year lease like they all want - I figured one year will give me enough to save to purchase my own home. But with paying so much in rent still Im gonna have a hard time saving.

Answer 1

From what I am told, you will be given a voucher for a certain size bedroom and rent range. How much the voucher will be is based upon where you live. If you've found a place and the rent is $700, then you will still be responsible for a portion of that rent based upon your total income, family size etc. They also use a calculation to determine the amount you will spend in child care and if you receive any child support. Chances are even if you find a place under the voucher rental amount; you will still have to pay something in rent. It will not be zero unless you have no income.