Finding affordable housing in Colorado can be a real challenge, especially with rising rents across cities like Denver, Colorado Springs, Aurora, and Fort Collins. The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program is one of the most important federal housing assistance programs available to low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. If you are wondering how to apply for Section 8 in Colorado, this guide walks you through everything you need to know, from eligibility requirements and income limits to the step-by-step application process.
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What Is the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program?
The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and administered locally by Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) across Colorado. The program helps eligible low-income families, elderly individuals, and people with disabilities afford decent, safe housing in the private rental market.
With a Housing Choice Voucher, you choose your own housing, and the PHA pays a portion of your rent directly to your landlord. You are responsible for paying the difference between the actual rent and the amount the voucher covers. Generally, participants pay about 30% of their adjusted monthly income toward rent, and the voucher covers the rest (up to the local payment standard).
Who Is Eligible for Section 8 in Colorado?
Eligibility for the Housing Choice Voucher program in Colorado is based on several factors:
- Income level: Your household income must fall below certain limits set by HUD each year. Generally, you must earn no more than 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for your county or metro area. PHAs are required to provide at least 75% of their vouchers to applicants at or below 30% of AMI (extremely low income).
- Family status: The program serves families, single individuals, elderly persons (age 62 or older), and persons with disabilities.
- Citizenship or immigration status: At least one household member must be a U.S. citizen or have eligible immigration status.
- Background: PHAs may deny assistance based on certain criminal history, including drug-related criminal activity or violent criminal activity.
Colorado Section 8 Income Limits
Income limits for Section 8 vary by county and metro area because they are based on the local Area Median Income. HUD updates these limits annually. The table below shows approximate income limits for the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood metro area, which is one of the largest in the state. Your local PHA will have the specific limits for your area.
Denver-Aurora-Lakewood Metro Area (Approximate HUD Income Limits)
| Household Size | Extremely Low Income (30% AMI) | Very Low Income (50% AMI) | Low Income (80% AMI) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $23,150 | $38,600 | $61,750 |
| 2 Persons | $26,450 | $44,100 | $70,600 |
| 3 Persons | $29,750 | $49,600 | $79,400 |
| 4 Persons | $33,050 | $55,100 | $88,200 |
| 5 Persons | $35,700 | $59,550 | $95,300 |
| 6 Persons | $38,350 | $63,950 | $102,350 |
| 7 Persons | $40,950 | $68,400 | $109,400 |
| 8 Persons | $43,600 | $72,800 | $116,450 |
Note: These figures are approximate and based on recent HUD published limits. Actual limits may vary. Check with your local PHA or visit the HUD Income Limits documentation system for the most current numbers for your specific county.
Income limits in other Colorado areas like Colorado Springs, Pueblo, Grand Junction, and rural counties may differ significantly. Rural areas typically have lower income limits because the local median income is lower.
How to Apply for Section 8 in Colorado: Step by Step
Step 1: Find Your Local Public Housing Authority
Colorado has dozens of PHAs that administer the Section 8 program. Your first step is to identify which PHA serves your area. Some of the major PHAs in Colorado include:
- Denver Housing Authority (DHA) serving the City and County of Denver
- Colorado Springs Housing Authority serving El Paso County
- Housing Authority of the City of Aurora
- Fort Collins Housing Authority
- Boulder Housing Authority
- Pueblo Housing Authority
- Loveland Housing Authority
- Colorado Division of Housing (CDOH) administers vouchers in some rural areas
You can find your local PHA by visiting the HUD PHA Contact page or calling HUD at 1-800-955-2232.
Step 2: Check if the Waiting List Is Open
One of the biggest challenges with Section 8 in Colorado is that waiting lists are often closed due to high demand. PHAs open their waiting lists periodically, and the window may only be open for a few days or weeks. Here is how to stay informed:
- Visit your local PHA website regularly for announcements
- Call your PHA to ask about waiting list status
- Sign up for email or text notifications if your PHA offers them
- Check websites like GoSection8.com or AffordableHousingOnline.com for waiting list alerts
- Watch local news, as large waiting list openings are often reported by media outlets
When a waiting list opens, apply immediately. Some PHAs use a lottery system rather than first-come, first-served, so even applying on the last day of the open period gives you the same chance.
Step 3: Complete the Pre-Application
When the waiting list opens, you will need to submit a pre-application (sometimes called a preliminary application). This is usually shorter than the full application and collects basic information:
- Names, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers for all household members
- Current address and contact information
- Total household income and income sources
- Current housing situation
- Any preferences you may qualify for (such as veteran status, disability, or homelessness)
Many Colorado PHAs now accept online pre-applications. Some still require paper applications submitted in person or by mail.
Step 4: Wait for Your Name to Be Called
After submitting your pre-application, you will be placed on the waiting list. Wait times in Colorado vary dramatically:
- Denver: Waiting lists can stretch 2 to 5 years or longer
- Colorado Springs: Typically 1 to 3 years
- Smaller cities and rural areas: May have shorter wait times, sometimes under a year
During this time, keep your contact information updated with the PHA. If they cannot reach you, you may lose your place on the list. Most PHAs will send periodic letters asking you to confirm your continued interest.
Step 5: Attend the Eligibility Interview
When your name comes up on the waiting list, the PHA will contact you for a full eligibility interview. At this meeting, you will need to provide documentation including:
- Photo identification for all adult household members
- Social Security cards for all household members
- Birth certificates for all household members
- Proof of income (pay stubs, benefit award letters, tax returns)
- Bank statements (checking and savings)
- Verification of assets
- Rental history for the past 3 to 5 years
- Documentation of any disability (if claiming a preference)
Step 6: Receive Your Voucher and Find Housing
If approved, you will receive your Housing Choice Voucher and attend a briefing session where the PHA explains the program rules. You then have a set period (usually 60 to 120 days, depending on the PHA) to find a rental unit that meets program requirements.
The unit must:
- Meet HUD Housing Quality Standards (HQS) through an inspection
- Have a rent at or below the PHA payment standard for the area
- Have a landlord willing to participate in the Section 8 program
Tips for a Successful Section 8 Application in Colorado
- Apply to multiple PHAs. You are not limited to one waiting list. Apply to several PHAs across Colorado to increase your chances.
- Keep all documents current. Gather your paperwork before the waiting list opens so you can apply quickly.
- Update your contact information. If you move or change phone numbers, notify every PHA where you have an active application.
- Look into preferences. Many PHAs give priority to veterans, people experiencing homelessness, domestic violence survivors, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.
- Consider smaller PHAs. Rural housing authorities may have shorter waiting lists and faster processing times.
- Check for special voucher programs. Some PHAs administer Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH) vouchers, Family Unification Program (FUP) vouchers, or Mainstream vouchers for persons with disabilities.
Other Housing Assistance Programs in Colorado
While waiting for Section 8, consider these additional housing resources:
- Colorado Division of Housing: Offers various rental assistance and homeless prevention programs
- LEAP (Low-Income Energy Assistance Program): Helps with heating costs from November through April. Income limit is 60% of State Median Income.
- Emergency Rental Assistance: Contact 211 Colorado (dial 2-1-1) for emergency rental and utility assistance
- Public Housing: Some PHAs operate public housing units with shorter wait times than Section 8
- Colorado Housing and Finance Authority (CHFA): Provides affordable housing resources and homeownership programs
You may also qualify for other benefits programs that can help stretch your budget. Check your eligibility for programs like SNAP, Medicaid, and LIHEAP to see what assistance is available to you. For a full overview of programs in the state, visit our Colorado Benefits Overview.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Section 8 waiting list in Colorado?
Wait times vary significantly by location. In Denver, waits of 2 to 5 years are common. Smaller cities and rural areas may have shorter waits, sometimes under a year. Many PHAs close their waiting lists entirely when demand is too high.
Can I transfer my Section 8 voucher to Colorado from another state?
Yes. The Housing Choice Voucher program includes "portability," which allows you to transfer your voucher to another PHA jurisdiction. Contact both your current PHA and the Colorado PHA where you want to move to start the portability process.
How much rent will I pay with a Section 8 voucher?
Generally, you will pay about 30% of your adjusted monthly income toward rent. The voucher covers the remaining cost up to the local payment standard. If you choose a unit with rent above the payment standard, you may pay more out of pocket, but your total tenant payment cannot exceed 40% of your adjusted income at initial lease-up.
Can I use my Section 8 voucher anywhere in Colorado?
Yes, after an initial period (usually 12 months) with the PHA that issued your voucher, you can use it anywhere in the country where a PHA administers the program. Some PHAs allow portability immediately.
What happens if I am denied Section 8?
If your application is denied, the PHA must provide a written notice explaining the reason. You have the right to request an informal hearing to appeal the decision. Common reasons for denial include income above limits, certain criminal history, or owing money to a previous PHA.
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to apply?
At least one member of your household must be a U.S. citizen or have eligible immigration status. Mixed-status families (where some members are eligible and some are not) may receive prorated assistance.
Is Section 8 the same as public housing?
No. Section 8 (Housing Choice Voucher) allows you to rent from private landlords in the open market. Public housing consists of government-owned housing units. Both are administered by PHAs, but they are separate programs with separate waiting lists.
Take the Next Step
Applying for Section 8 in Colorado requires patience and preparation, but the assistance can make a significant difference for your family. Start by identifying your local PHA, watch for waiting list openings, and gather your documents so you are ready to apply when the opportunity arises.
Want to see what other benefits you might qualify for? Use our free eligibility screener to check your eligibility for housing assistance, food benefits, healthcare, and more in just a few minutes.
