Low-income families seeking rental assistance through the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program may have a new opportunity this month. Public housing authorities in multiple states have reopened their Section 8 waitlists in May 2025—some for the first time in years.
Because waitlists often stay closed due to high demand, these rare openings are drawing attention from eligible applicants nationwide.
Where Section 8 waitlists are now open
The following states and local housing authorities have announced waitlist openings:
- California: San Bernardino County Housing Authority reopened its list May 15 and will accept applications through May 31.
- Florida: The Orlando Housing Authority is reopening its family housing voucher waitlist on May 20.
- Texas: El Paso Housing Authority is accepting applications online only from May 22 to May 24.
- Michigan: Grand Rapids Housing Commission will reopen its list May 21 for 48 hours.
- Georgia: Several rural PHAs are opening on a rolling basis. Check GeorgiaHousingSearch.org for current status.
Note: Some of these waitlists are lottery-based, meaning not all applicants will be placed even if they apply during the window.
How to apply for Section 8
To apply during an open waitlist window, applicants must:
- Visit the official housing authority website or the HUD-affiliated portal linked in the announcement.
- Submit income and household documentation online or in person.
- Ensure that their income falls below the local HUD threshold, typically 50% of the area median income (AMI).
Applicants should prepare documents such as:
- Government-issued ID
- Social Security cards for all household members
- Proof of income (pay stubs, benefit letters)
- Current lease or utility bills, if applicable
Tips for getting on the list
Because demand is high, here’s how applicants can improve their chances:
- Apply early during the opening window.
- Double-check all documents for accuracy.
- Monitor email and postal mail for confirmation or follow-up requests.
- Use HUD’s PHA contact tool to verify openings in your area.
Why this matters now
With rents continuing to rise in many cities, voucher-based assistance remains one of the few options for stable housing for low-income Americans. Section 8 provides rental subsidies directly to landlords on behalf of eligible tenants.
Experts say these short-term waitlist openings are vital, especially in regions where families can otherwise wait years for housing assistance.
What’s next
HUD continues to encourage local agencies to assess housing needs and reopen lists when possible. If your local list is still closed, housing advocates recommend checking once per month and signing up for email alerts from your PHA.
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