Do you need to screen a Sec 8 applicant or does the state do that?
Yes, you should absolutely screen a Section 8 applicant – verify income, run a credit check, etc. The state has their own screening process for determining the person’s Section 8 eligibility, but that does not have to do with your screening process.
We treat every applicant the same whether they are Section 8 or not. Everyone needs to verify their income and their credit. This way you have a full scope of the person you may be renting to.
Does the state cover 100% of the rent? Or does the tenant have to pay a portion?
This depends. A Section 8 tenant’s situation will determine how much the program will cover based on their situation – employment, children, etc.
Sometimes the program will cover 100%. Sometimes the tenant has to pay a portion and Section 8 covers the rest.
If the tenant’s situation changes, the amount covered by Section 8 can change too.
How does rent collection work?
The portion of rent paid by the state is sent directly to the landlord. It does not go through the tenant.
Section 8 tenants will have a case worker you will work with. The case worker will have you fill out paperwork as the landlord. This way the rent goes directly to you.
Have questions about Section 8?
Submit your questions and we will post the answers!
