Finding affordable housing in New Jersey can be a serious challenge. With some of the highest rents in the country, many low and very low income families struggle to keep housing costs manageable. The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program helps bridge the gap by subsidizing rent payments so that eligible households pay no more than about 30 percent of their income toward housing. If you are wondering how to apply for Section 8 in New Jersey, this guide walks you through every step of the process, from checking your eligibility to landing a spot on a waiting list.
Not sure which benefits you qualify for? Try our free benefits eligibility screener to check your eligibility for Section 8 and other assistance programs in minutes. You can also visit our New Jersey Benefits Overview for a full list of programs available in the state.
What Is the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program?
The Section 8 HCV Program is a federal rental assistance program funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). In New Jersey, the program is administered at two levels:
- State level: The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA), Division of Housing and Community Resources (DHCR), runs a statewide voucher program available to residents of all 21 counties.
- Local level: Over 100 municipal and county housing authorities across New Jersey also administer their own Section 8 programs.
When you receive a voucher, the housing authority pays a portion of your rent directly to your landlord. You are responsible for paying the difference between the total rent and the subsidy, which is generally around 30 percent of your adjusted gross income.
Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, make sure you meet the basic eligibility criteria for Section 8 in New Jersey.
Income Limits
To qualify, your household income must fall below 50 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI) for the county where you are applying. HUD updates these limits each year. By law, housing authorities must also ensure that at least 75 percent of new admissions go to families earning below 30 percent of AMI (extremely low income).
Income limits vary significantly by county in New Jersey. Below is a sample of limits for selected counties to give you a general idea. These figures are based on HUD published data and may be updated annually.
| County | 1 Person | 2 Person | 3 Person | 4 Person |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atlantic | $29,500 | $33,700 | $37,900 | $42,100 |
| Bergen | $42,850 | $49,000 | $55,100 | $61,200 |
| Camden | $36,900 | $42,200 | $47,450 | $52,700 |
| Essex | $40,250 | $46,000 | $51,750 | $57,500 |
| Hudson | $40,250 | $46,000 | $51,750 | $57,450 |
| Mercer | $41,750 | $47,700 | $53,650 | $59,600 |
| Middlesex | $47,500 | $54,250 | $61,050 | $67,800 |
| Monmouth | $42,650 | $48,750 | $54,850 | $60,900 |
| Passaic | $42,850 | $49,000 | $55,100 | $61,200 |
| Union | $40,250 | $46,000 | $51,750 | $57,500 |
Note: These figures reflect recently published HUD income limits. Limits change each year, so always check with your local housing authority or visit the HUD income limits page for the most current numbers.
For larger households (5 to 8 persons), limits are higher. For example, a family of 8 in Middlesex County may qualify with income up to approximately $89,500.
Other Eligibility Requirements
Beyond income, you must also meet these criteria:
- Age: You must be at least 18 years old or an emancipated minor.
- Citizenship or eligible immigration status: At least one household member must be a U.S. citizen or have eligible immigration status.
- Background: Housing authorities conduct background checks. A history of certain criminal activity, particularly drug related offenses, may disqualify applicants.
- Prior rental history: Evictions from federally assisted housing for lease violations can affect eligibility.
- Family composition: Single individuals, families with children, elderly persons, and people with disabilities may all qualify.
How to Apply for Section 8 in New Jersey: Step by Step
Step 1: Find Housing Authorities With Open Waiting Lists
Section 8 waiting lists in New Jersey are not always open. Due to high demand, most housing authorities only accept applications during limited windows. As of early 2026, only a handful of waiting lists are open at any given time across the state.
Here is how to find open waiting lists:
- NJ DCA statewide program: Check nj.gov/dca/vouchers for announcements about the statewide waiting list. When open, pre-applications are accepted online at WaitlistCheck.com/NJ559.
- Local housing authorities: Visit affordablehousingonline.com for an updated list of open waiting lists across New Jersey.
- HUD Housing Network: Check hudhousingnetwork.com for current open lists.
Tip: Apply to multiple housing authorities to increase your chances. You are not limited to one waiting list, and you can apply in different counties.
Step 2: Complete the Pre-Application
When a waiting list opens, you will need to submit a pre-application (sometimes called an interest form). For the statewide DCA program, this is done online. Local housing authorities may offer paper applications, online portals, or both.
The pre-application typically asks for:
- Full legal names of all household members
- Dates of birth and Social Security numbers
- Current address and contact information
- Total household income
- Any disability or elderly status (for preference categories)
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
Once your name comes up on the waiting list (which can take months or even years), you will need to provide documentation to verify your eligibility. Start gathering these documents early:
- Identification: Government issued photo ID for all adult household members (driver's license, state ID, or passport)
- Social Security cards: For all household members
- Birth certificates: For all household members
- Proof of income: Recent pay stubs, tax returns, Social Security benefit letters, pension statements, child support documentation, or unemployment records
- Proof of assets: Bank statements for checking and savings accounts
- Rental history: Names and contact information for previous landlords
- Proof of citizenship or immigration status: U.S. birth certificate, passport, or immigration documents
Step 4: Wait for Your Name to Be Called
After submitting your pre-application, you will be placed on a waiting list. Wait times in New Jersey vary widely:
- Some smaller housing authorities may have waits of 1 to 2 years.
- Larger cities like Newark, Jersey City, and Trenton often have waits of 3 to 5 years or longer.
- The statewide DCA program also has significant wait times due to demand.
During this time, keep your contact information updated with the housing authority. If they cannot reach you, you may lose your place on the list.
Step 5: Attend the Eligibility Interview
When your name reaches the top of the list, the housing authority will contact you for an eligibility interview. During this meeting:
- You will submit all required documents.
- Staff will verify your income, household composition, and background.
- You may be asked about your housing preferences and needs.
Step 6: Receive Your Voucher and Find Housing
If approved, you will receive a Housing Choice Voucher. You then have a set period (typically 60 to 120 days, depending on the housing authority) to find a qualifying rental unit. The landlord must agree to participate in the program, and the unit must pass a housing quality standards (HQS) inspection.
Preference Categories That May Move You Up the List
Many New Jersey housing authorities give priority to applicants in certain categories. Common preferences include:
- Elderly applicants (age 62 and older)
- People with disabilities
- Homeless individuals and families
- Veterans
- Residents of the jurisdiction where the housing authority is located
- Victims of domestic violence
- Families with children
- Working families or those actively seeking employment
Check with your specific housing authority to learn which preferences they offer and whether you qualify.
Major Housing Authorities in New Jersey
New Jersey has over 100 housing authorities. Here are some of the largest:
| Housing Authority | Phone | Service Area |
|---|---|---|
| NJ DCA (Statewide) | (609) 292-4080 | All 21 counties |
| Newark Housing Authority | (973) 273-6200 | Newark |
| Jersey City Housing Authority | (201) 706-4600 | Jersey City |
| Housing Authority of Bergen County | (201) 336-7600 | Bergen County |
| Trenton Housing Authority | (609) 989-7584 | Trenton |
| Camden Housing Authority | (856) 968-6875 | Camden |
| Paterson Housing Authority | (973) 345-5085 | Paterson |
You can find a complete directory of field offices on the NJ DCA website.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Apply early and often. When a waiting list opens, submit your application as soon as possible. Apply to multiple housing authorities.
- Keep your information current. Update your address, phone number, and email with every housing authority where you are on a waiting list.
- Respond promptly. If a housing authority contacts you, respond within the deadline. Missing a deadline can result in removal from the list.
- Be honest. Providing false information on your application is grounds for denial and can lead to legal consequences.
- Document everything. Keep copies of all applications, correspondence, and submitted documents.
- Check for preferences. If you are a veteran, elderly, disabled, or homeless, you may qualify for priority placement.
Other Housing Assistance Programs in New Jersey
While waiting for Section 8, consider these additional resources:
- NJ HMFA rental assistance programs: The New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency offers several rental assistance initiatives.
- Emergency Rental Assistance: Through 211 NJ (dial 2-1-1) for short term rental help.
- Public Housing: Apply directly through local housing authorities for traditional public housing units.
- SNAP and other benefits: Use our benefits screener to check if you qualify for food assistance, Medicaid through NJ FamilyCare, LIHEAP for utility bills, and other programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Section 8 waiting list in New Jersey?
Wait times vary by housing authority and location. In many parts of New Jersey, you can expect to wait anywhere from 1 to 5 years or more. Some waiting lists have been closed for years due to high demand.
Can I apply for Section 8 in multiple counties?
Yes. You can apply to as many housing authorities as you like, including the statewide DCA program and local municipal or county programs. Applying to multiple lists increases your chances of receiving a voucher sooner.
What happens if I am denied?
If your application is denied, the housing authority must provide a written explanation. You have the right to request an informal hearing to appeal the decision. Common reasons for denial include exceeding income limits, failing background checks, or providing incomplete documentation.
Can I use my New Jersey Section 8 voucher in another state?
Yes, through a process called "portability." Once you receive your voucher and are admitted to the program, you can transfer it to another jurisdiction, including out of state. However, some housing authorities require you to use the voucher locally for the first 12 months.
Is there an age limit to apply for Section 8?
You must be at least 18 years old or be an emancipated minor to apply. There is no upper age limit, and elderly applicants (62 and older) often receive priority on waiting lists.
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen?
At least one member of your household must be a U.S. citizen or have eligible immigration status. Mixed status families may receive prorated assistance.
How much rent will I pay with a Section 8 voucher?
Generally, you will pay approximately 30 percent of your adjusted monthly income toward rent and utilities. The voucher covers the remaining portion, up to the payment standard set by the housing authority for your area.
Take the Next Step
If you think you may qualify for Section 8 or other assistance programs in New Jersey, start by checking your eligibility with our free benefits screener. It takes just a few minutes and covers over 10 federal and state programs. For a complete overview of available assistance, visit our New Jersey Benefits Overview page.
