HCV Program

Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCV)

Helping Families Access Safe, Affordable Housing

The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program, formerly known as Section 8, helps eligible individuals and families afford safe, quality housing in the private rental market.

Funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the program provides rental assistance that allows participants to choose housing that best meets their needs while maintaining affordability.

The Housing Authority of Kansas City, Missouri (HAKC) administers the Housing Choice Voucher Program throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area and works closely with residents and property owners to create housing opportunities that support stability and success.

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

Eligible individuals and families apply for assistance through HAKC.

Step 2: Waiting List

Applicants are placed on the waiting list according to established eligibility requirements and local preferences.

Step 3: Receive a Voucher

When assistance becomes available, eligible households receive a housing voucher.

Step 4: Search for Housing

Voucher holders search for a rental unit that meets their family’s needs and participates in the program.

Step 5: Unit Approval

HAKC inspects the unit to ensure it meets HUD housing quality standards and verifies that the rent is reasonable.

Step 6: Move In

Once approved, the family signs a lease with the landlord and begins receiving rental assistance.

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

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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

Interested property owners are encouraged to learn more about becoming an HCV landlord partner.

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?

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.