Nevada faces one of the most challenging affordable housing markets in the country. With only about 14 affordable rental homes available for every 100 extremely low-income households, thousands of families struggle to keep a roof over their heads. The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program helps bridge this gap by subsidizing rent for eligible low-income families, seniors, and people with disabilities across the state.
If you are wondering how to apply for Section 8 in Nevada, this guide walks you through every step of the process, from checking your eligibility and finding your local housing authority to submitting your application and navigating the waiting list.
Not sure if you qualify for Section 8 or other assistance programs? Use our free benefits screener to check your eligibility in minutes.
What Is Section 8 in Nevada?
The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program is a federal rental assistance program funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Instead of placing families in public housing projects, the program gives qualified households a voucher that covers a portion of their rent in the private market. This means you can choose your own apartment, townhouse, or single-family home, as long as the landlord accepts vouchers and the unit passes a housing quality inspection.
In Nevada, the program is administered by three main Public Housing Authorities (PHAs):
- Southern Nevada Regional Housing Authority (SNRHA) serves Clark County, including Las Vegas, Henderson, and North Las Vegas
- Reno Housing Authority (RHA) serves Washoe County, including Reno and Sparks
- Nevada Rural Housing Authority (NRH) serves all other counties, including Carson City, Elko, Nye, Douglas, Lyon, Churchill, and more
Each housing authority manages its own waiting list, application process, and local preferences. You must apply through the PHA that serves the area where you want to live.
Section 8 Income Limits in Nevada
To qualify for Section 8 in Nevada, your household income must fall at or below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for your county. HUD updates these limits each year. Housing authorities must also ensure that at least 75% of new admissions go to families earning 30% or less of AMI (extremely low income).
Las Vegas Metro Area (Clark County) Income Limits
The Las Vegas-Henderson-North Las Vegas metro area has a median family income of $94,900. Here are the FY 2025 HUD income limits:
| Household Size | Extremely Low (30% AMI) | Very Low (50% AMI) | Low (80% AMI) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $21,450 | $35,700 | $57,150 |
| 2 People | $24,500 | $40,800 | $65,300 |
| 3 People | $27,550 | $45,900 | $73,450 |
| 4 People | $32,150 | $51,000 | $81,600 |
| 5 People | $37,650 | $55,100 | $88,150 |
| 6 People | $43,150 | $59,200 | $94,700 |
| 7 People | $48,650 | $63,250 | $101,200 |
| 8 People | $54,150 | $67,350 | $107,750 |
Reno Metro Area (Washoe County) Income Limits
The Reno metro area has a higher median family income of $111,800, which means slightly higher income limits:
| Household Size | Extremely Low (30% AMI) | Very Low (50% AMI) | Low (80% AMI) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $23,250 | $38,700 | $61,900 |
| 2 People | $26,550 | $44,200 | $70,750 |
| 3 People | $29,850 | $49,750 | $79,600 |
| 4 People | $33,150 | $55,250 | $88,400 |
| 5 People | $37,650 | $59,650 | $95,500 |
| 6 People | $43,150 | $64,100 | $102,550 |
| 7 People | $48,650 | $68,500 | $109,650 |
| 8 People | $54,150 | $72,950 | $116,700 |
Rural Nevada Income Limits
Income limits for rural counties like Elko, Nye, Churchill, and others vary by county. You can look up your specific county's limits on the HUD Income Limits page or contact the Nevada Rural Housing Authority directly.
Important: Meeting the income requirements does not guarantee you will receive a voucher. Demand far exceeds the number of available vouchers in most parts of Nevada.
Eligibility Requirements Beyond Income
Income is the primary factor, but housing authorities also consider the following when determining eligibility:
- Citizenship or immigration status: At least one household member must be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen with proper documentation.
- Criminal background: Applicants with certain criminal histories, particularly those involving violent offenses, drug-related activity, or sex offenses, may be denied. Each PHA has its own screening criteria.
- Rental history: A pattern of evictions, property damage, or lease violations can affect your application.
- Outstanding debts to a PHA: If you owe money to any public housing authority, you may need to resolve the debt before being approved.
Some housing authorities give preference to certain groups, such as:
- Elderly individuals (age 62 and older)
- Families with children
- Veterans
- People currently experiencing homelessness
- People with disabilities
- Households that are already living in a unit with a landlord willing to accept the voucher
How to Apply for Section 8 in Nevada: Step by Step
Step 1: Determine Which Housing Authority Serves Your Area
Your first step is identifying the correct PHA for your location:
- Clark County (Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas): Southern Nevada Regional Housing Authority at (702) 922-6900
- Washoe County (Reno, Sparks): Reno Housing Authority at (775) 329-3630
- All other counties: Nevada Rural Housing Authority at (775) 887-1795
Step 2: Check if the Waiting List Is Open
Section 8 waiting lists in Nevada are not always open. Housing authorities open their lists periodically, sometimes for just a few days or weeks. When a list opens, it is announced on the housing authority's website and social media pages.
To stay informed:
- Sign up for email alerts on your PHA's website
- Follow your PHA on Facebook and other social media platforms
- Call the housing authority periodically to ask about upcoming openings
- Check HUD's housing authority directory for contact information
Step 3: Submit Your Application
When the waiting list opens, you will need to complete an application. Most Nevada housing authorities now accept applications online.
- SNRHA (Las Vegas): Applications are submitted online through the SNRHA website when the waiting list opens
- Reno Housing Authority: Check their website for current application procedures
- Nevada Rural Housing Authority: Applications are submitted online through their Rent Cafe portal
Be prepared to provide:
- Full legal names and dates of birth for all household members
- Social Security numbers for all household members
- Current address and contact information
- Income information (pay stubs, benefit letters, tax returns)
- Proof of citizenship or eligible immigration status
Step 4: Wait for Selection
After applying, your name goes on the waiting list. In many parts of Nevada, especially Las Vegas and Reno, wait times can range from 12 months to several years. Some housing authorities use a lottery system to select applicants from the waiting list rather than a first-come, first-served approach.
During this time:
- Keep your contact information up to date with the housing authority
- Respond promptly to any correspondence from the PHA
- Failure to respond to letters or notices can result in removal from the waiting list
Step 5: Attend a Briefing and Complete Verification
If you are selected from the waiting list, the housing authority will contact you to:
- Verify your income, identity, and household composition
- Conduct a background and rental history check
- Schedule a mandatory briefing session where you learn about program rules, your rights, and your responsibilities
You will need to bring documentation including:
- Photo identification for all adults
- Birth certificates for all household members
- Social Security cards
- Proof of income (pay stubs, benefit award letters, bank statements)
- Rental history and landlord references
Step 6: Receive Your Voucher and Find Housing
Once approved, you receive a Housing Choice Voucher. You then have a set period (typically 60 to 120 days, depending on the PHA) to find a rental unit that meets program requirements. The Nevada Rural Housing Authority allows 90 days for this search.
The unit must:
- Meet HUD Housing Quality Standards (HQS)
- Have a rent at or below the PHA's payment standard for the area
- Be inspected and approved by the housing authority before you move in
Step 7: Sign Your Lease and Move In
Once the housing authority approves the unit and the landlord agrees to the program terms, you sign your lease. Your share of the rent is typically 30% of your adjusted monthly income, and the housing authority pays the rest directly to the landlord.
How Much Will You Pay?
Section 8 tenants generally pay about 30% of their adjusted monthly income toward rent. The housing authority covers the difference between your payment and the approved rent amount, up to the Fair Market Rent for the area.
For example, if your household earns $1,500 per month and the approved rent is $1,400:
- Your portion: approximately $450 per month (30% of income)
- Housing authority pays: approximately $950 per month
Certain deductions may lower your adjusted income, including:
- $480 per dependent
- Childcare expenses for children under 13
- Medical expenses over $500 per year for elderly or disabled households
- Disability-related expenses
Tips for a Successful Section 8 Application in Nevada
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Apply to multiple housing authorities. You can be on more than one waiting list. Consider applying to SNRHA, Reno Housing Authority, and the Rural Housing Authority if you are flexible about location.
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Act fast when lists open. Waiting lists may only be open for a few days. Set up alerts and be ready to apply immediately.
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Keep your documents organized. Having all required documents ready speeds up the verification process when your name comes up.
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Update your contact information. If you move or change your phone number, notify the housing authority right away. Missed correspondence can get you removed from the list.
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Be honest on your application. Providing false information is grounds for denial and could result in a ban from the program.
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Look into other assistance while you wait. The Section 8 waiting list can take years. In the meantime, explore other programs that can help with housing costs, utilities, and basic needs.
Other Housing and Benefits Programs in Nevada
While waiting for Section 8, you may qualify for other assistance programs:
- LIHEAP (Energy Assistance Program): Helps with utility bills for households at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level. Apply through Access Nevada.
- SNAP (Food Assistance): Nevada uses expanded income limits of 200% FPL with no asset limit. Apply through Access Nevada.
- Medicaid: Nevada expanded Medicaid to cover adults up to 138% FPL. Apply through Access Nevada.
- Public Housing: Some housing authorities also manage public housing units with shorter wait times.
For a full overview of programs available in your area, visit our Nevada Benefits Overview or check your eligibility with our free screener.
Nevada Section 8 Housing Authorities Contact Information
| Housing Authority | Area Served | Phone | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southern Nevada Regional Housing Authority | Clark County (Las Vegas, Henderson) | (702) 922-6900 | snvrha.org |
| Reno Housing Authority | Washoe County (Reno, Sparks) | (775) 329-3630 | renoha.org |
| Nevada Rural Housing Authority | All other counties | (775) 887-1795 | nvrural.org |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Section 8 waiting list in Nevada?
Wait times vary by location and demand. In the Las Vegas and Reno metro areas, wait times typically range from 12 to 24 months or longer. Rural areas may have shorter wait times but fewer available units. Some applicants wait several years before receiving a voucher.
Can I apply for Section 8 in Nevada if I live in another state?
Yes, you can apply to any housing authority regardless of where you currently live. However, you will need to find housing within the PHA's service area once you receive your voucher. Some PHAs allow "portability," meaning you can transfer your voucher to another area after your initial lease period.
What happens if I am denied Section 8?
If your application is denied, the housing authority 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 the limit, criminal history, or outstanding debts to a housing authority.
Can I choose any apartment with a Section 8 voucher?
You can choose any rental unit that meets HUD Housing Quality Standards and has a landlord willing to participate in the program. The rent must also fall within the housing authority's payment standard for the area. Not all landlords accept Section 8 vouchers, although Nevada law does not currently prohibit landlords from refusing voucher holders.
How often do Nevada Section 8 waiting lists open?
There is no set schedule. Each housing authority opens its waiting list based on available funding and voucher turnover. Some lists open once a year, while others may go several years between openings. Signing up for email notifications from your local PHA is the best way to stay informed.
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to apply for Section 8 in Nevada?
At least one member of your household must be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen. Household members who are not eligible non-citizens will not receive assistance, but the eligible members of the household may still qualify for prorated assistance.
Can I work and still receive Section 8 assistance?
Yes. Section 8 is not limited to unemployed individuals. Many voucher holders work full-time or part-time. Your rent portion is based on 30% of your adjusted income, so as your income increases, you simply pay a larger share of the rent. The voucher adjusts accordingly.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Eligibility for Section 8 and other programs is determined by the relevant housing authority or government agency. Income limits and program details are subject to change. Last updated March 2026.
