Johnson County Housing Authority to open Housing Choice Voucher waitlist on July 31
The Johnson County Housing Authority is opening the Housing Choice Voucher Program’s online waitlist to accept applicants on July 31 at 9 am.
Interested applicants must create an account on Waitlist Check and join the waitlist once it opens. The first 600 applications will be accepted. The Housing Authority opens its waitlist based on availability of assistance and last opened its waitlist on July 12, 2023.
The county’s Housing Choice Voucher Program has a preference for those that live or work in Johnson County, (excluding residents of Olathe) elderly, disabled, and survivors of domestic violence. The City of Olathe has its own housing authority and is not within the jurisdiction of the Johnson County Housing Authority.
The Housing Choice Voucher Program is the federal government’s largest rental subsidy program. In 2023, the program served 1,481 Johnson County households. Those on fixed incomes including elderly and/or disabled make up most of the program, followed by low-income working families with children and those fleeing domestic violence.
The average household income of those on the program in 2023 was $17,710. Participants on the program are required to pay 30-40% of their income towards rent and utilities combined. The rental subsidy is intended to cover the remaining portion, therefore easing the financial burden, ensuring housing stability.
“We’re thrilled to announce that our waitlist will open to offer the community an opportunity to participate in our program,” said Teresa Spaeth, manager of the Housing Choice Voucher Program. “We are committed to creating housing stability for the vulnerable residents in Johnson County. The Housing Choice Voucher program provides housing stability for many of our elderly and disabled neighbors.”
Once on the waitlist, applicants will receive an email and/or letter in the mail asking for verification documents. When applicants provide needed information and are deemed eligible, they’re invited to attend a briefing class where they learn more about the program and receive a Housing Choice Voucher.
The Housing Choice Voucher can be used with any participating landlord whose unit is within the individual family’s affordability standards.
Learn more about the Housing Choice Voucher Program and view the public notice (English / Español) for the waitlist opening.
Housing Choice Voucher Program: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Housing Choice Voucher Program?
The Housing Choice Voucher Program, formerly known as Section 8, assists eligible individuals and families in securing safe and affordable housing. The program primarily assists those who are elderly/disabled on a fixed income and low-income working families.
Those on the program are required to pay 30-40% of their income towards rent and utilities combined. The federal government disperses Housing Assistance Payments directly to the property owners. These payments are intended to cover the remaining housing costs, thereby easing the financial burden on participants ensuring housing stability.
How do I know if I qualify for the program?
HUD provides income guidelines. To receive a Housing Choice Voucher you must be at or below 50% of AMI for your household size.
How often does the waitlist open (accept applicants)?
Johnson County Housing Authority opens their wait list based on availability of assistance. On July 31, 2024, the first 600 applicants will be accepted.
How do I join the program waitlist?
- Make an account.
- Verify your email address used to set up account as directed.
- Log in and apply on July 31, 2024 at 9 a.m. (link will not work until this date and time).
What happens next?
- Check your waitlist status by logging into Assistance Connect. Please note that you will utilize the same username and password you created on waitlist check. Assistance Connect will provide you with your waitlist status and further details.
- Wait to be notified that you’ve come up on the list by mail or email. Update the address or email on file in writing if there are any changes.
- You’ll receive an Activation packet to fill out and submit with all required documentation. Your eligibility will be assessed and then a notification of eligibility will be sent.
- Briefing Class: Once applicants are at the top of the waitlist and determined eligible, they will be invited to a briefing class. The briefing class will provide detailed information such as program expectations and requirements. The program document is provided to applicants at the briefing.
How long does it take to receive a housing choice voucher?
The waiting period varies, but it may take 1-8 months to receive a Housing Choice Voucher if eligible. Rest assured that the Johnson County Housing Authority will contact all 600 applicants.