❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Section 8, also known as the Housing Choice Voucher Program, is a federal program that helps low-income families, the elderly, and disabled persons afford housing in the private market. The program pays a portion of the rent directly to the landlord.

Contact your local housing authority or the Connecticut Department of Housing. Most programs require you to complete an application and provide documentation of income, assets, and household composition. Wait times vary by location and program.

AMI stands for Area Median Income. It's the midpoint of incomes in a geographic area - half of households earn more, half earn less. Housing programs use AMI percentages (30%, 50%, 80%) to determine eligibility.

Public housing provides affordable rental units owned and operated by local housing authorities. Rent is typically 30% of household income. Units range from single-family homes to high-rise apartments.

Wait times vary significantly - from months to several years depending on location, program, and family size. Some lists are closed to new applicants. Contact your local housing authority for current information.

Typically you need: government-issued ID, Social Security cards for all household members, birth certificates, proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, benefit letters), bank statements, and rental history. Use our Document Checklist tool for a complete list.

Yes. Common reasons include: income over limits, criminal history (varies by program), previous eviction from assisted housing, or owing money to a housing authority. Each program has specific eligibility requirements.

Connecticut Housing Finance Authority (CHFA) is a state agency that provides mortgages and down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers, as well as financing for affordable rental housing development.