If you're looking for housing assistance, early May 2026 offers several chances to apply for Section 8 vouchers across the country.
From May 4-8, 2026, ten different housing authorities in eight states will open their waiting lists. This includes opportunities in Ohio, Maryland, Virginia, New Jersey, California, Colorado, Texas, and Arizona.
Sunday, May 4, 2026 Openings
Ohio
Marion Metropolitan Housing Authority
- Programs: Housing Choice Voucher and Project-Based Voucher
- How to Apply: Online at marionmha.org
Maryland
Baltimore County
- Programs: Housing Choice Voucher and Project-Based Voucher
- How to Apply: Online
- This program serves the areas surrounding Baltimore City.
Virginia (3 Openings)
Loudoun County Department of Housing & Community Development
- Program: Housing Choice Voucher
- How to Apply: Online
- Note: This is a traditional Section 8 voucher program.
Virginia Housing Development Authority
- Program: Project-Based Voucher
- Coverage: Available statewide in Virginia
- How to Apply: Online
Somerville Housing Authority (New Jersey)
- Program: Housing Choice Voucher
- How to Apply: Online
- Serves Central New Jersey residents.
Monday, May 5, 2026
City of Vacaville (California)
- Program: Project-Based Voucher
- How to Apply: Online
- Located in Northern California, between Sacramento and the Bay Area.
Tuesday, May 6, 2026
Suffolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority (Virginia)
- Program: Project-Based Voucher
- How to Apply: Online
- Serves the Hampton Roads area.
Wednesday, May 7, 2026
Larimer County Housing Authority (Colorado)
- Program: Project-Based Voucher
- How to Apply: Online
- Serves Northern Colorado, including the Fort Collins area.
Thursday, May 8, 2026
Harlingen Housing Authority (Texas)
- Program: Project-Based Voucher
- How to Apply: Online
- Serves the Rio Grande Valley in South Texas.
Chandler Housing & Redevelopment Division (Arizona)
- Program: Project-Based Voucher
- How to Apply: Online
- Serves the southeast part of the Phoenix metro area.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Section 8 Waiting List?
A Section 8 waiting list is a list kept by local housing authorities to determine who gets a housing voucher. Each housing authority runs its list differently. Some use a lottery system where names are picked at random, while others work on a first-come, first-served basis. Getting your name on a waiting list is usually the first step toward getting housing help.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Voucher?
The wait time depends on your local housing authority. In smaller communities with short lists, you may get help quickly. In larger areas with long lists, the wait can take several months or even longer.
Before you receive your voucher, the housing authority will check that you still qualify. They will look at your income and household size to make sure you get the right amount of assistance. Once everything is approved, you can start looking for a home that accepts Section 8 vouchers.
Tip: Apply as soon as the waiting list opens to improve your chances of getting on the list.
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