HCV Program

Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCV)

Helping Families Access Safe, Affordable Housing

The housing choice voucher (HCV) program is the federal government’s primary program for assisting very low-income families, the elderly, and persons with disabilities to afford decent, safe, and sanitary housing in the private market. Since housing assistance is provided on behalf of the HCV tenant, participants are able to find their own housing, including single-family homes, townhouses and apartments. Housing choice vouchers are administered locally by public housing agencies (PHAs) that receive federal funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to administer the HCV program. This means that the tenant, landlord and PHA all have obligations and responsibilities under the HCV program.

What Is the Housing Choice Voucher Program?

The Housing Choice Voucher Program provides rental assistance to eligible low-income households by helping cover a portion of monthly housing costs.

Unlike traditional public housing, participants can search for housing in the private rental market and choose a home, apartment, or townhouse that best fits their family’s needs, provided the unit meets program requirements.

The program is designed to increase housing choice while helping families secure stable, affordable housing.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligibility is determined based on several factors, including:

Household income
Family size
Citizenship or eligible immigration status
Program eligibility requirements established by HUD

In most cases, household income must fall within limits established for the Kansas City metropolitan area.

Because funding is limited and demand is high, waiting lists may apply.

How the Program Works

Step: 1 Apply for Assistance

Families submit an application to HAKC when the waitlist is open. Applicants who meet eligibility requirements are placed on the waiting list.

Step 2: Eligibility Determination

When a voucher becomes available, eligible families will be pulled from the waitlist and HACK will verify the applicant still meets eligibility requirements.

Step 3: Voucher Issuance

HAKC will issue a voucher to families that meet the screening criteria. Each family will be required to attend a voucher briefing.

Step 4: Search for Housing:

Family searches for a rental unit in the private market within HAKC’s jurisdiction. Family submits a Request for Tenancy Approval (RFTA) to the PHA after selecting a unit.

How Much Will I Pay?

Most participating households contribute approximately 30% of their adjusted monthly income toward rent and utilities.

The Housing Choice Voucher Program pays the remaining portion up to established program limits.

The amount of assistance may vary based on:

Household income
Family size
Unit size
Utility costs
Voucher payment standards

Responsibilities Under the Program

Successful participation requires cooperation between residents, landlords, and HAKC.

Participants are expected to:

Comply with lease terms
Pay their portion of rent on time
Maintain the unit in good condition
Report changes in income or household composition
Participate in required program reviews and recertifications

Property owners participating in the program are responsible for:

Providing safe, decent, and sanitary housing
Maintaining housing quality standards
Complying with lease requirements
Completing required inspections and documentation

HAKC is responsible for:

Determining eligibility
Issuing vouchers
Conducting inspections
Processing housing assistance payments
Providing ongoing program administration and support
Conducting annual income reviews and compliance checks

Partnering with Landlords

The Housing Choice Voucher Program relies on strong partnerships with property owners throughout the community.

By participating in the program, landlords gain access to:

Reliable housing assistance payments
A large pool of prospective tenants
Dedicated program support
Opportunities to support affordable housing efforts throughout Kansas City

Learn more

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the waiting list?

Waiting times vary depending on funding availability, family size, and program demand.

Can I use my voucher anywhere?

HAKC services the Greater Kansas City Metro area. Participants may choose housing in the private rental market that meets program requirements and is approved by HAKC.

Does my unit have to pass an inspection?

Yes. All units must meet HUD housing quality standards before assistance can begin.

Will my income affect my rent?

Yes. Rental contributions are generally based on household income and family composition.