Applying for Section 8 in North Carolina can feel overwhelming, but the process is more straightforward than many people realize. The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program is a federal rental assistance program administered by local public housing authorities (PHAs) across the state. It helps low-income families, seniors, and people with disabilities afford safe, decent housing in the private rental market. North Carolina has 128 housing authorities that manage voucher programs, serving tens of thousands of households statewide. If you are struggling with rent or housing costs, this guide walks you through everything you need to know to apply. Not sure if you qualify for Section 8 or other assistance programs? Check your eligibility with our free screener.
For a broader look at all the assistance programs available to you, visit our North Carolina Benefits Overview.
What Is Section 8 and How Does It Work?
Section 8, officially known as the Housing Choice Voucher program, is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and run locally by public housing authorities. The program pays a portion of your rent directly to your landlord. You are responsible for paying the difference between the voucher amount and the actual rent, which is typically around 30% of your adjusted monthly income.
Here is how the program works once you are approved:
- You receive a voucher from your local housing authority
- You search for a rental unit that meets HUD quality standards
- The housing authority inspects and approves the unit
- The housing authority pays the landlord a subsidy each month
- You pay your share of the rent (generally about 30% of your income)
The key benefit of Section 8 compared to public housing is that you choose where you live. You can rent an apartment, townhouse, or single-family home from any private landlord who accepts vouchers, as long as the unit passes inspection and the rent is within the payment standard for your area.
Section 8 Income Limits in North Carolina
To qualify for Section 8 in North Carolina, your household income must generally fall below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for your county or metropolitan area. HUD requires that at least 75% of new vouchers go to families earning at or below 30% of AMI (considered "extremely low income").
Income limits vary significantly across the state because they are based on local median incomes. Below are approximate income limits for some of the major metropolitan areas in North Carolina. These figures are updated annually by HUD.
Approximate Section 8 Income Limits by Area (50% AMI)
| Household Size | Charlotte Metro | Raleigh Metro | Greensboro/Winston-Salem | Fayetteville | Asheville |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $30,800 | $33,050 | $27,100 | $24,600 | $28,650 |
| 2 Persons | $35,200 | $37,800 | $30,950 | $28,100 | $32,750 |
| 3 Persons | $39,600 | $42,500 | $34,800 | $31,600 | $36,850 |
| 4 Persons | $43,950 | $47,200 | $38,650 | $35,100 | $40,900 |
| 5 Persons | $47,500 | $51,000 | $41,750 | $37,950 | $44,200 |
Note: These figures are approximate and based on recent HUD data. Actual limits for your specific area may differ. Contact your local housing authority or visit the HUD website for the most current income limits.
Extremely Low Income Limits (30% AMI)
Families earning at or below 30% of AMI receive priority for vouchers. For reference, 30% AMI for a family of four in the Charlotte metro area is approximately $26,400 per year. In rural areas of North Carolina, these limits may be lower.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Section 8 in North Carolina
Step 1: Find Your Local Housing Authority
North Carolina has 128 public housing authorities spread across the state. You need to apply through the PHA that serves your area. To find your local housing authority:
- Visit the HUD PHA directory at hud.gov
- Call the NC Housing Finance Agency at (919) 877-5700
- Dial 2-1-1 (NC 211) for local housing resource referrals
- Search online at AffordableHousingOnline.com
Some of the largest housing authorities in North Carolina include:
- Inlivian (Charlotte): (704) 336-5183
- Raleigh Housing Authority: (919) 831-8300
- Greensboro Housing Authority: (336) 275-8501
- Housing Authority of the City of Asheville: (828) 258-1222
- Wilmington Housing Authority: (910) 341-7700
- Durham Housing Authority: (919) 683-1551
- Fayetteville Metropolitan Housing Authority: (910) 483-6188
Step 2: Check if the Waiting List Is Open
This is a critical step. Most Section 8 waiting lists in North Carolina are closed at any given time. Housing authorities only accept new applications when they open their waiting lists, which may happen once a year or even less frequently. Some waiting lists have not opened in several years due to high demand.
To check waiting list status:
- Call your local PHA directly
- Check the PHA website regularly
- Monitor AffordableHousingOnline.com/open-section-8-waiting-lists/North-Carolina for updates
- Sign up for email alerts from your housing authority if available
Tip: You are not limited to applying in just one location. You can apply to multiple housing authorities across North Carolina when their waiting lists are open. This increases your chances of receiving a voucher sooner.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
When a waiting list opens, you will need to submit an application. Depending on the housing authority, you may apply:
- Online through the PHA's website
- In person at the PHA office
- By mail using a paper application
Applications are typically accepted during a limited window, sometimes just a few days or weeks. When you hear about an opening, act quickly.
Step 4: Gather Required Documents
You will need the following documents during the application and verification process:
- Identification: Government-issued photo ID for all adult household members
- Social Security cards for all household members
- Birth certificates for all household members
- Proof of income: Recent pay stubs, tax returns, Social Security award letters, or other income documentation
- Bank statements: Typically for the most recent 3 to 6 months
- Proof of current address: Lease agreement, utility bill, or mail
- Criminal background information: Housing authorities conduct background checks
- Citizenship or immigration status documentation
- Disability documentation (if applicable)
Step 5: Wait for Your Name to Be Called
After applying, your name is placed on the waiting list. Wait times in North Carolina vary widely:
- Smaller or rural housing authorities: May have wait times of 6 months to 2 years
- Mid-size cities: Wait times of 1 to 3 years are common
- Large metro areas (Charlotte, Raleigh): Wait times can exceed 3 to 5 years or more
Some applicants receive preference points that move them higher on the list. Common local preferences include:
- Living or working in the PHA's jurisdiction
- Being homeless or at imminent risk of homelessness
- Being a veteran
- Being elderly (62+) or disabled
- Families with children
- Victims of domestic violence
Step 6: Complete Eligibility Verification
When your name reaches the top of the waiting list, the housing authority will contact you for an eligibility interview. During this process, they will:
- Verify your income and assets
- Conduct background and credit checks
- Confirm your household composition
- Review your rental history
It is essential to keep your contact information updated with the housing authority while you are on the waiting list. If they cannot reach you, you may be removed from the list.
Step 7: Receive Your Voucher and Find Housing
Once approved, you will receive a Housing Choice Voucher. You then have a set amount of time (usually 60 to 120 days, depending on the PHA) to find a suitable rental unit. The unit must:
- Meet HUD Housing Quality Standards (HQS)
- Have rent within the PHA's payment standard for the area
- Pass an inspection conducted by the housing authority
- Have a landlord willing to participate in the program
Tips for a Successful Section 8 Application in North Carolina
Apply to multiple housing authorities. Since you can apply in more than one jurisdiction, submit applications to several PHAs to improve your odds. You can even apply in counties you do not currently live in.
Keep your information current. Update your address and phone number with every housing authority where you have an active application. Missed notices can result in removal from the waiting list.
Respond quickly to all correspondence. Housing authorities have strict deadlines. If you receive a letter requesting documents or scheduling an interview, respond immediately.
Prepare your documents in advance. Having all your paperwork organized and ready to go speeds up the process and prevents delays.
Check for other housing programs. While waiting for Section 8, explore other options such as public housing, Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) apartments, USDA rural housing programs, or local nonprofit housing assistance. Dial 2-1-1 in North Carolina to learn about resources in your area.
Other Housing and Rental Assistance in North Carolina
If you need help with housing costs while waiting for Section 8, North Carolina offers several other programs:
- Public Housing: Many of the same housing authorities that manage Section 8 also operate public housing developments with below-market rents.
- LIHEAP (Low Income Energy Assistance Program): Helps pay heating bills for households at or below 130% of the federal poverty level. Apply through ePASS or your local county DSS.
- NC Housing Finance Agency: Offers various housing programs including rental assistance and supportive housing. Visit nchfa.com for details.
- Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG): Provides assistance for families experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
- Work First Emergency Assistance: For families with children facing urgent housing needs, available through your county Department of Social Services.
Want to see all the benefits you might qualify for? Use our free screening tool to check your eligibility for housing assistance, food benefits, healthcare, and more in just a few minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Section 8 waiting list in North Carolina?
Wait times depend on the housing authority and local demand. In larger cities like Charlotte and Raleigh, waits of 3 to 5 years or longer are common. Smaller or rural areas may have shorter waits of 6 months to 2 years. Some housing authorities have closed their waiting lists entirely due to high demand.
Can I apply for Section 8 in multiple counties in North Carolina?
Yes. You can submit applications to as many housing authorities as you want, regardless of where you currently live. This is one of the best strategies to shorten your wait time.
What happens if I am denied Section 8?
If your application is denied, the housing authority must provide a written explanation and you have the right to request an informal hearing to appeal the decision. Common reasons for denial include income exceeding the limits, criminal history, or previous evictions from assisted housing.
Can I use a North Carolina Section 8 voucher in another state?
Yes, through a process called "portability." Once you receive a voucher and are admitted to the program, you can transfer it to another jurisdiction, including other states. However, some housing authorities require you to use the voucher locally for at least 12 months before porting it.
Do I need to be a North Carolina resident to apply?
Not necessarily. You can apply to any housing authority in North Carolina, even if you currently live in another state. However, some PHAs give local preference to residents of their jurisdiction, which could affect your position on the waiting list.
What income counts toward Section 8 eligibility?
The housing authority considers your gross annual income, which includes wages, Social Security, pensions, child support, alimony, and most other sources of income. Some income exclusions apply, such as certain education assistance and foster care payments. Your housing authority will provide a detailed list during the application process.
Is Section 8 the same as public housing?
No. Section 8 (Housing Choice Voucher) lets you rent from private landlords in the open market, while public housing involves living in government-owned housing developments. Both programs serve low-income families, but Section 8 offers more flexibility in choosing where you live.
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 housing authority pays the remaining portion directly to the landlord, up to the payment standard for your area.
Take the Next Step
Applying for Section 8 in North Carolina takes patience and persistence, but the program can make a significant difference in your housing stability and quality of life. Start by finding your local housing authority, checking whether the waiting list is open, and preparing your documents. While you wait, explore other assistance programs that may help with your immediate needs.
Check your eligibility for Section 8 and other benefits programs with our free screener to see what programs you may qualify for today.
