Section 8 is not open for new applications in New York City

New York City's Section 8 program stopped taking new applications in 2009. The waiting list closed that year and has remained closed. If you are not already on the list from before 2009, you cannot join it through the standard Section 8 process run by the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA).

This does not mean housing information is unavailable in New York City. Other programs exist that serve people who need help paying rent, and some of those programs are open. The routes available depend on your situation — whether you are homeless, at risk of homelessness, working, disabled, or a family with children.

Key Takeaways

  • NYCHA's Section 8 waiting list has been closed since 2009 and new applications are not being taken.
  • New York City runs other rental information programs that may be open, including Emergency Rental information and the Rental information for Individuals and Families program.
  • If you are homeless or at imminent risk of homelessness, contact the Department of Homeless Services or call 311 to reach the Homebase program.
  • Some nonprofits and community organizations in your borough hold Section 8 vouchers and may have their own waiting lists separate from NYCHA's.

Why the Section 8 list closed and what that means

NYCHA closed its Section 8 waiting list because the number of people seeking vouchers far exceeded the number available. The list had grown so large that opening it again would have created an unmanageable backlog. People already on the list before 2009 continue to receive vouchers as they become available, but that process moves slowly — the average wait time for someone on the existing list is years.

A closed waiting list means NYCHA is not accepting new names. You cannot call NYCHA, visit an office, or submit paperwork to join the Section 8 program. If you see a website or flyer claiming to help you get on the Section 8 list in New York City, it is not legitimate.

Rental information programs that are currently open in New York City

The city runs Emergency Rental information, which pays landlords directly for rent owed and sometimes for future rent. This program has funding that changes year to year. You can learn about current status and how the process works through the Department of Social Services website or by calling 311.

The Rental information for Individuals and Families (RAIF) program serves working households and individuals who earn between 30 and 80 percent of the area median income. RAIF pays rent arrears and can cover future rent for up to 12 months. The program is administered through community-based organizations, not directly by the city, so availability and process methods vary by neighborhood.

If you are experiencing homelessness or are at imminent risk, the Homebase program provides rental information and case management. You reach Homebase through the Department of Homeless Services by calling 311 or visiting a drop-in center. Homebase is separate from Section 8 and does not require you to be on any waiting list.

Nonprofits and community organizations with Section 8 vouchers

Some nonprofits in New York City hold Section 8 vouchers that they administer independently of NYCHA. These organizations may have their own waiting lists, and those lists may be open even though NYCHA's is closed. The vouchers work the same way — the nonprofit pays a portion of your rent and you pay the rest — but the process process and waiting time are different.

To find nonprofits in your borough that hold vouchers, contact your local community board or call 311 and ask for a referral. The Housing Conservation Coordination Council (HCCC) also maintains a directory of housing resources by neighborhood. Because these programs are run by individual organizations, you will need to contact each one to learn whether they are taking new applications.

What to do if you need housing help now

Start by calling 311 and describing your situation. The 311 system will direct you to the program that fits your circumstances. If you are behind on rent, you may reach Emergency Rental information. If you are working and need ongoing help, RAIF may be an option. If you are homeless or about to lose your home, you will be referred to Homebase or the Department of Homeless Services.

Have ready: your lease (or proof you live somewhere), proof of income, and documentation of any hardship — an eviction notice, a layoff letter, medical bills, or a utility shutoff notice. Different programs ask for different documents, but these are the most common. The 311 representative can tell you exactly what you need before you explore.

How long Section 8 has been closed and whether it might reopen

The NYCHA Section 8 waiting list has been closed for over 15 years. There is no announced date for reopening. Reopening would require significant new federal funding to increase the number of vouchers available, which would need to come through Congress. Local advocacy groups continue to push for more Section 8 funding, but the waiting list remains closed as of now.

If you are interested in Section 8 long-term, you can contact your city council member or state representative to express support for increased housing voucher funding. In the meantime, the rental information programs listed above are the routes available to you in New York City.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get on the Section 8 waiting list if I move to New York City from another state?

No. NYCHA's waiting list is closed to everyone, including people relocating to the city. If you are moving to New York and need rental help, contact 311 to learn about Emergency Rental information, RAIF, or other programs based on your income and situation.

If I am already on the NYCHA Section 8 waiting list from before 2009, how do I know my place is still there?

Contact NYCHA directly at 718-707-7771 or visit an NYCHA office in person with your ID. NYCHA maintains the list and can tell you your position. You do not need to reapply or do anything to stay on the list — your place holds as long as you keep your contact information current with NYCHA.

What if a nonprofit or community organization tells me they can get me on the Section 8 list for a fee?

Do not pay. No legitimate organization charges a fee to help you join Section 8 or any other housing program. If someone is asking for money, report it to the Department of Consumer Affairs or call 311. Legitimate nonprofits and city programs are free.

Are there other housing programs in New York City besides Section 8 and rental information?

Yes. The city runs public housing (NYCHA apartments), affordable housing lotteries for new construction, and supportive housing programs for people with disabilities or experiencing homelessness. Call 311 or visit the Department of Housing Preservation and Development website to learn which programs match your situation.