City of Miami - Community Development

It is a HUD program managed by the City of Miami which assists low income households, the elderly, and the disabled to rent decent, safe and sanitary housing in the private market. Program participants pay approximately 30% of their gross income. The City of Miami subsidizes the difference between the rental amount and the household’s payment.

What is the difference between Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher and Moderate Rehabilitation Programs?

The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program provides eligible households the flexibility to move to any rental property of their choice (that qualifies within the limits of the program). The assistance is tied to the household and not to the rental unit. On the other hand, under the Moderate Rehabilitation program, the assistance is tied to the rental unit the household is occupying, usually an apartment building; therefore, if this household moves out from this unit, the household loses the Section 8 assistance.

Who can apply for the Section 8 rental assistance?

Any person or household that qualifies based on current income limits and place of residence.

When can I apply for the Section 8 program?

The availability of funds and the opening of the waiting list is advertised periodically in a general circulation newspaper with citywide coverage at least 15 days prior to the acceptance of applications.

Can I apply for both the Housing Choice Voucher and Moderate Rehabilitation programs?

Yes. However, at no given time will the eligible household receive the assistance under both programs. The household will have to choose between one of them.

If I have already a Section 8 voucher, can I move outside the limits of the City of Miami?

Yes. The section 8 voucher may be used in any jurisdiction in the United States that supports the program.

What happens if my income or family composition changes after I begin receiving rental assistance?

Anytime your income changes or you have a change in family members, you are required to report these changes to your housing specialist in the City of Miami.

How often is my family size and income reviewed?

At least once a year.

What are the terms of the lease?

The initial lease term shall be of a minimum of 12 months.

Does the program pays for security deposits?

No. The program participant must be able to pay for the security deposit.

What are Housing Quality Standards (HQS)?

Housing Quality Standards (HQS) are the HUD minimum standards for housing assisted under the Section 8 rental assistance program. For more information, please read the HUD Booklet “Good Place to Live” www.hud.gov/offices/adm/hudclips/forms/files/593pih.pdf

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Are housing inspections required?

Yes. Prior to moving into any new unit, such unit must pass an HQS inspection. Also, on an annual basis, your unit will be inspected to ensure that housing standards are maintained. The program participant will receive notification of the scheduled inspection in advance.

What should I do if my unit needs repairs?

Contact your landlord and your housing specialist at the City of Miami. An inspection will be scheduled to determine whether the unit meets Housing Quality Standards (HQS).

How long can I remain in the rental assistance (Section 8) program?

Current program rules allow you to continue to receive housing assistance as long as you are income-eligible and as long as you fulfill your tenant obligations established by HUD for the program. You will lose your assistance when your income rises to the point that your portion of the rent matches or exceeds the full amount of the rent and stays at that level during six months or longer, or if you are terminated from the program for violating the rules.

Why are annual re-certifications needed?

The City of Miami is required by HUD to review every participant’s household income and family size on a yearly basis. This is done to ensure that the City of Miami is paying for the correct portion of the rent.

If I am a Section 8 participant, what happens if I fail to make it to my annual re-certification appointment?

Failure to show up for a re-certification appointment may be grounds for termination of the program.

Can I lose my rental assistance?

Yes. The following list highlights some of the most common actions that may cause you to lose your assistance:

· Vacating the unit without proper notice.

· Allowing unauthorized persons to live in the housing unit.

· Not complying with the Section 8 program tenant responsibilities.

· Not reporting all income and/ or correct family composition.

· Involvement in drug-related or criminal activity by any member of the household.

· Violation of lease terms and conditions.