Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program

What is the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program?
The Housing Choice Voucher Program assists low income individuals with rent in the private rental
market. The Housing Authority administers this federal program within the city limits of River
Falls.

How does it help low income people?
Program participants pay a minimum of 30% of their monthly adjusted income toward rent. The
program provides rent assistance, which is the difference between the participant’s portion of the
rent and the actual rent. The rent assistance is paid directly to the property owner on the first of
each month.

Who can participant in the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program?
To be eligible applicants must have gross annual income below the HUD established limits for
River Falls and meet one of the following criteria:
• Be over 62 years old
• Have a disability
• Be a family

Households with family members who have been convicted of criminal activity are not eligible
for housing.

How do I get on the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program?
Complete and return an application to the Housing Authority office.
In person: Pick up an application at 625 N. Main St., River Falls
By phone: Contact 715-425-7640 to have an application mailed to you.
On line: For a printable application visit www.rfhousing.org

All applications must be signed and returned to the office with a legible copy of a current
driver’s license or photo ID for all adults in the household and a copy of every household
member’s social security card.

A police record background check is completed for every adult household member to determine
eligibility.

How long before I get help with my rent?
Applications from eligible households will be placed on the waiting list as of the date and
time the completed application is received. The length of the waiting list depends on the
availability of federal funding. Vouchers are funded through the Department of Housing &
Urban Development (HUD). Applicants will be notified by mail of their estimated waiting time.

How will I know that the Housing Authority has a Voucher for me?
Applicants will be notified by mail to schedule an interview when their name nears the top of the list. Applicants are responsible for notifying the Housing Authority of any changes in mailing address or family composition during the waiting period.

During the interview, all information needed to determine your rent and eligibility will be
discussed. Applicants must verify income, assets, medical and childcare expenses. Come to the
interview prepared; bring any of the following information that applies:
A copy of your most recent Social Security award letter.
Addresses of employer(s) and other income sources, including pensions and IRAs.
Addresses of all assets including stocks, bonds, mutual funds or other investments.
Addresses of all previous landlords.
Senior citizens or disabled persons should bring addresses of any ongoing medical
expenses including medical insurance.
Family applicants should bring addresses of child care providers.

Can I use my Voucher anywhere?
Program participants may choose a rental unit from the private rental market in River Falls. The
property owner must be willing to accept Voucher assisted tenants. The rental unit must be
appropriate for the family size, be located in River Falls and must pass an inspection. The rent
must be reasonable for the River Falls area. Participants are not permitted to rent from family
members.

How much rent will I pay when I get my Voucher?
Participants pay between 30% and 40% of their monthly adjusted income toward rent. The
Voucher pays the difference between the participant’s portion of the rent and the actual rent. The
rent assistance is paid directly to the property owner on the first of each month.