Finding affordable housing in New Hampshire can be a real challenge. With rising rents across the state, many families and individuals turn to the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program for help. This federally funded program, administered by New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority (NHHFA), helps eligible low-income households pay for safe, decent rental housing in the private market.
If you are wondering how to apply for Section 8 in New Hampshire, this guide walks you through every step of the process, from checking your eligibility to submitting your application and navigating the waiting list.
Not sure which benefits you qualify for? Use our free eligibility screener to check your eligibility for Section 8 and other assistance programs in minutes.
What Is the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program?
The Housing Choice Voucher program is the largest federal rental assistance program in the United States. It is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and administered locally by public housing authorities.
In New Hampshire, the program is run statewide by the New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority (NHHFA). Here is how it works:
- You apply and get placed on a waiting list
- When your name reaches the top, you receive a voucher
- You find a rental unit in the private market that meets program standards
- You pay a portion of your adjusted income toward rent (typically 30% to 40%)
- NHHFA pays the remaining rent directly to your landlord
The voucher gives you flexibility to choose where you live, as long as the unit passes a housing quality inspection and the rent falls within program guidelines.
Section 8 Income Limits in New Hampshire
To qualify for the Housing Choice Voucher program in New Hampshire, your household income must be below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for your area. HUD sets these limits annually and they vary by county and metropolitan area.
By law, at least 75% of new vouchers must go to households earning at or below 30% of AMI (considered "extremely low income"). This means the program prioritizes the lowest-income applicants.
2025 Income Limits by Household Size (Statewide Estimates)
The table below shows approximate income limits for the Section 8 program in New Hampshire. Actual limits vary by county, so check the official NHHFA income limits document for your specific area.
| Household Size | 30% AMI (Extremely Low Income) | 50% AMI (Very Low Income) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $19,300 to $22,150 | $32,150 to $36,900 |
| 2 people | $22,050 to $25,300 | $36,750 to $42,200 |
| 3 people | $24,800 to $28,450 | $41,350 to $47,450 |
| 4 people | $27,550 to $31,600 | $45,900 to $52,700 |
| 5 people | $29,800 to $34,150 | $49,600 to $56,950 |
| 6 people | $32,000 to $36,700 | $53,300 to $61,150 |
Note: Ranges reflect variation across New Hampshire counties. Income limits are updated each year by HUD, typically in the spring. If you cannot verify your exact limit, contact NHHFA directly.
What Counts as Income?
When determining eligibility, NHHFA considers your household's annual gross income, which may include:
- Wages and salaries
- Social Security benefits
- SSI and SSDI payments
- Pension and retirement income
- Unemployment compensation
- Child support received
- Interest and dividend income
- Public assistance payments
Some types of income may be excluded, such as certain educational scholarships or one-time lump sum payments. NHHFA will review your specific situation during the eligibility determination process.
How to Apply for Section 8 in New Hampshire: Step by Step
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before applying, confirm that you meet these basic requirements:
- Income: Your household income must be below 50% of the Area Median Income for your area
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen or have eligible immigration status
- Background: NHHFA conducts criminal background and rental history checks
- Residency: While there is no strict state residency requirement to apply, you must plan to use the voucher for housing in New Hampshire (or port it to another state)
Step 2: Submit Your Application Online
The primary way to apply is through the NHHFA Online Applicant Portal:
- Go to https://hcvportal.nhhousing.org/
- Click on APPLICANT LOGIN in the top right menu bar
- Create an account if you are a first-time applicant
- Complete all required fields, including household composition and income information
- Submit your application
Portal hours: The online portal is available Monday through Friday from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM, and 24 hours on Saturdays and Sundays. The portal may occasionally be unavailable during system updates.
Step 3: Apply by Mail (Alternative Method)
If you cannot apply online, you have other options:
- Download a paper application: Visit the NHHFA paper application page to print a copy
- Request by phone: Call (603) 472-8623 or the toll-free line at 1-800-439-7247 to have an application mailed to you
- Email: Contact rentinfo@nhhfa.org for assistance
Step 4: Provide Required Documentation
When your application is processed, you will need to provide supporting documents, which typically include:
- 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 (pay stubs, benefit award letters, tax returns)
- Bank statements
- Proof of current address
- Any applicable court orders (custody, child support)
Step 5: Wait for Your Position on the List
After submitting your application, you will be placed on the waiting list. According to NHHFA, the estimated wait time for most applicants is approximately 7 to 9 years before their name reaches the top of the list. The actual wait time could be longer or shorter depending on:
- The number of applicants ahead of you
- The availability of vouchers
- Whether you qualify for any preference categories
- Turnover rates among current voucher holders
Step 6: Respond to NHHFA Communications
While on the waiting list, it is critical that you:
- Keep your contact information updated with NHHFA
- Respond promptly to any correspondence
- Update NHHFA if your household size or income changes
Failure to respond to communications may result in removal from the waiting list.
Preference Categories That May Shorten Your Wait
NHHFA may give priority to applicants who qualify for certain preference categories. While specific preferences can change, common ones include:
- Homelessness: Currently experiencing homelessness or living in an emergency shelter
- Displacement: Displaced by natural disaster, government action, or domestic violence
- Substandard housing: Living in housing that does not meet basic safety standards
- Severe rent burden: Paying more than 50% of income toward rent
- Veterans: Some preferences may apply to veterans or veteran families
Having a preference does not guarantee faster placement, but it can move you higher on the waiting list. Ask NHHFA about current preference categories when you apply.
What Happens After You Receive a Voucher
Once your name reaches the top of the waiting list, NHHFA will contact you for an eligibility interview. If approved, here is what to expect:
- Briefing session: You will attend a briefing that explains your rights and responsibilities as a voucher holder
- Housing search: You typically have 60 to 120 days to find a suitable rental unit
- Unit inspection: The unit must pass a Housing Quality Standards (HQS) inspection before NHHFA will approve it
- Lease signing: You sign a lease with the landlord, and NHHFA enters into a Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) contract with the landlord
- Monthly payments: You pay your portion of rent directly to the landlord, and NHHFA pays the subsidy amount
How Much Will You Pay?
As a voucher holder, you will generally pay 30% to 40% of your adjusted monthly income toward rent and utilities. NHHFA calculates a "payment standard" based on fair market rents in your area, and the voucher covers the difference between your payment and the payment standard.
Reasonable Accommodations for People with Disabilities
If you have a disability, you may request a reasonable accommodation to help you fully participate in the Housing Choice Voucher program. This could include modifications to application procedures, communication methods, or program policies.
To request a reasonable accommodation:
- Call 1-800-439-7247
- Use the TDD line at (603) 472-2089 or NH Relay Number: 711
- Write to: New Hampshire Housing, PO Box 5087, Manchester, NH 03108
- Complete a Reasonable Accommodation Request Form
NHHFA will respond to requests within 30 days.
Other Housing Assistance Programs in New Hampshire
If the Section 8 waiting list seems too long, there are other programs that may help with housing costs in New Hampshire:
- LIHEAP (Fuel Assistance): Helps pay heating costs for households earning below 60% of State Median Income. Benefits range from $94 to $2,177 per season.
- TANF/FANF: New Hampshire's cash assistance program for families with children can help cover basic needs, including housing costs. Learn more about New Hampshire benefits.
- Emergency Rental Assistance: Various programs through Community Action Agencies may provide short-term rental help.
- Public Housing: Some local housing authorities in New Hampshire operate public housing developments with shorter waiting lists.
- Project-Based Vouchers: These are Section 8 vouchers tied to specific properties rather than portable vouchers. They may have separate, shorter waiting lists.
Check your eligibility for all available programs with our free benefits screener.
Tips for a Successful Section 8 Application
- Apply as soon as possible. Given the long waiting list, early application is important.
- Keep your information current. Update NHHFA immediately if you move, change phone numbers, or your household composition changes.
- Respond to all correspondence. Missing a letter from NHHFA could mean losing your place on the list.
- Apply to multiple programs. Do not rely solely on Section 8. Look into public housing, project-based vouchers, and other rental assistance.
- Gather documents early. Having your paperwork ready speeds up the process when your name comes up.
- Check for local programs. Some New Hampshire cities and towns have their own rental assistance programs.
- Contact Community Action Agencies. These organizations can help you navigate housing resources in your area. New Hampshire has five regional Community Action Agencies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Section 8 waiting list in New Hampshire?
According to NHHFA, the estimated wait time is approximately 7 to 9 years for most applicants. However, this can vary based on voucher availability, the number of applicants, and whether you qualify for any preference categories.
Can I transfer my Section 8 voucher to or from New Hampshire?
Yes. The Housing Choice Voucher program includes a portability feature that allows you to use your voucher in a different state or transfer a voucher from another state to New Hampshire. Contact NHHFA or your current housing authority for details on the portability process.
Is the Section 8 waiting list currently open in New Hampshire?
The NHHFA waiting list is generally open for applications year-round through the online portal. However, availability can change. Check hcvportal.nhhousing.org or call 1-800-439-7247 to confirm current status.
What happens if I am denied Section 8 benefits?
If your application is denied, NHHFA will provide a written notice explaining the reason. You have the right to request an informal review or hearing to appeal the decision. Common reasons for denial include income above the limit, unfavorable background check results, or failure to provide required documentation.
Can I choose any apartment with a Section 8 voucher?
You can choose any rental unit that meets the program requirements, including passing a Housing Quality Standards inspection and having a rent within the payment standard for your area. The landlord must also agree to participate in the program.
Do I need to be a New Hampshire resident to apply?
You do not need to be a current New Hampshire resident to apply for the NHHFA waiting list, but you will need to use the voucher in New Hampshire (or request portability to another jurisdiction).
Contact Information
New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority (NHHFA)
- Phone: (603) 472-8623
- Toll-free: 1-800-439-7247
- TDD: (603) 472-2089
- NH Relay: 711
- Email: rentinfo@nhhfa.org
- Online Portal: hcvportal.nhhousing.org
- Mailing Address: PO Box 5087, Manchester, NH 03108
Language Assistance: If you speak a language other than English, free language assistance services are available. Contact NHHFA for details.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Eligibility for the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program is determined by NHHFA based on federal and state guidelines. Income limits and program details are subject to change. Use our free benefits screener to check your eligibility for Section 8 and other assistance programs in New Hampshire.
