How to Apply for Section 8 in Fort Worth

For thousands of low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities in Fort Worth, Section 8 housing assistance is a lifeline. Officially known as the Housing Choice Voucher Program, Section 8 empowers eligible residents to find safe, affordable housing in the private market while receiving federal financial support to cover a portion of their rent. In a city where housing costs have risen steadily over the past decade, understanding how to apply for Section 8 in Fort Worth is not just a procedural step—it’s a critical pathway to housing stability, financial security, and improved quality of life.

The process of applying for Section 8 in Fort Worth can appear complex due to high demand, long waiting lists, and strict eligibility requirements. However, with accurate information and careful preparation, applicants can navigate the system effectively. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step breakdown of the entire application process, from determining eligibility to securing your voucher and finding a qualifying rental unit. Whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing your status, this resource is designed to eliminate confusion and increase your chances of success.

Unlike some cities where Section 8 is administered through centralized public housing authorities, Fort Worth’s program is managed by the Fort Worth Housing Solutions (FWHS), the city’s official public housing agency. FWHS oversees all aspects of the program, including application intake, income verification, voucher issuance, and landlord coordination. Knowing how to interact with FWHS and what documents to prepare in advance can make the difference between a successful application and a prolonged wait.

This guide is structured to deliver actionable insights, real-world examples, and practical tools—all tailored specifically to Fort Worth residents. By the end, you will have a clear roadmap to follow, common pitfalls to avoid, and trusted resources to consult. Applying for Section 8 is not just about filling out forms; it’s about understanding your rights, preparing thoroughly, and staying persistent in a competitive system. Let’s begin.

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

Before beginning the application process, it’s essential to determine whether you meet the basic eligibility criteria set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and enforced by Fort Worth Housing Solutions. Section 8 is designed for low-income households, and eligibility is primarily based on three factors: income, family composition, and citizenship status.

Your household’s annual gross income must be at or below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for the Fort Worth–Arlington metropolitan statistical area. For 2024, the AMI for a household of one is $57,800, meaning your income must be $28,900 or less. For a family of four, the AMI is $82,500, so your income must be $41,250 or less. These thresholds are adjusted annually and may vary slightly depending on household size and composition.

In addition to income limits, applicants must be U.S. citizens or have eligible immigration status. Non-citizens with qualified status—such as lawful permanent residents, refugees, or asylees—are eligible. However, undocumented immigrants are not eligible for Section 8 assistance. All household members over the age of 18 must provide proof of identity and immigration status.

FWHS also conducts background checks on all adult applicants. A history of violent criminal activity, drug-related offenses, or eviction from a federally assisted housing program within the past five years may disqualify you. However, not all criminal records result in automatic denial. FWHS considers the nature, severity, and recency of the offense, and may allow exceptions on a case-by-case basis.

Step 2: Monitor the Waiting List Openings

One of the most challenging aspects of applying for Section 8 in Fort Worth is the waiting list. Due to high demand and limited funding, the waiting list is often closed for months or even years at a time. When it does open, applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, and thousands of people may apply within hours.

To increase your chances, you must monitor the FWHS website regularly. Visit https://www.fwhs.org and check the “Housing Choice Voucher Program” section under “Programs.” FWHS typically announces waiting list openings through press releases, social media, and local news outlets. They may also post notices at community centers, libraries, and public housing sites.

When the list opens, you will be directed to an online application portal. Applications are not accepted by mail, phone, or in person unless specifically advertised as an exception. Be prepared to submit your application the moment the portal opens. Many applicants use multiple devices and browsers to increase their chances of submitting successfully during high-traffic periods.

It’s also wise to sign up for email alerts from FWHS and follow their official social media accounts on Facebook and Twitter. Some applicants use third-party services that monitor housing authority websites for openings, but always verify information directly with FWHS to avoid scams.

Step 3: Complete the Online Application

Once the waiting list opens, you’ll be directed to the online application system. The form requires detailed personal and financial information for every household member aged 18 or older. You’ll need to provide:

• Full legal names, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers
• Current address and contact information
• Employment status and gross monthly income from all sources (wages, Social Security, child support, unemployment, etc.)
• Proof of citizenship or eligible immigration status
• Names and contact information for all landlords in the past five years
• Information about any prior participation in federal housing programs

Be meticulous. Incomplete or inaccurate applications are automatically rejected. If you have children, include their information even if they are not currently living with you full-time. FWHS requires a complete household profile to determine eligibility and voucher size.

After submission, you will receive a confirmation number. Save this number and keep a screenshot or printed copy. You will use it to check your position on the waiting list later. Do not submit multiple applications—doing so will result in disqualification.

Step 4: Wait for Your Number to Be Called

Once your application is submitted, you will be placed on a waiting list. The length of time you wait depends on your priority status, household size, and available funding. Priority is typically given to households experiencing homelessness, fleeing domestic violence, or living in substandard housing. Other applicants are placed on a general waiting list.

Waiting times in Fort Worth can range from 2 to 7 years, depending on funding cycles and demand. During this time, it’s crucial to keep your contact information updated with FWHS. If your phone number, email, or address changes, notify them immediately in writing. Failure to respond to communication from FWHS may result in removal from the list.

FWHS periodically sends notifications via mail or email to applicants nearing the top of the list. These notices may request additional documentation, such as recent pay stubs, tax returns, or bank statements. Respond promptly to avoid delays.

Step 5: Attend the Pre-Approval Interview

When your name reaches the top of the waiting list, FWHS will invite you to a pre-approval interview. This interview is conducted in person or via video call and is mandatory. You must bring original documents to verify your identity, income, and household composition.

Required documents include:

• Photo ID for all adult household members (driver’s license, state ID, passport)
• Birth certificates or Social Security cards for all household members
• Proof of income (pay stubs from the last 30 days, tax returns for the past year, award letters for Social Security or disability)
• Proof of citizenship or immigration status (naturalization certificate, green card, visa)
• Proof of current residence (lease, utility bill, or letter from a shelter)
• Child support or alimony documentation, if applicable

During the interview, FWHS staff will review your application, confirm your income eligibility, and explain your rights and responsibilities as a Section 8 participant. You will also be asked to sign a certification form acknowledging that you understand the program rules.

After the interview, FWHS will conduct a final background check. If approved, you will be issued a Section 8 voucher. The voucher will include the amount of assistance you qualify for, the time limit to find housing (typically 60 to 120 days), and instructions on how to proceed.

Step 6: Find a Qualifying Rental Unit

Once you receive your voucher, you have a limited time—usually 60 to 120 days—to find a rental unit that meets HUD’s housing quality standards and is within the program’s payment standards. In Fort Worth, payment standards vary by bedroom size and neighborhood, but generally range from $1,200 to $1,800 per month for a two-bedroom unit.

You may rent from any private landlord who agrees to participate in the Section 8 program. This includes apartments, townhomes, single-family homes, and duplexes. The landlord must agree to sign a Housing Assistance Payments (HAP) contract with FWHS and pass an inspection.

Start your search early. Use the FWHS website’s landlord directory, which lists participating property owners. You can also search on rental platforms like Zillow, Apartments.com, or Craigslist, and ask landlords directly if they accept Section 8 vouchers. Be prepared to provide your voucher number and explain the process to landlords who may be unfamiliar with it.

When you find a unit, complete a rental application with the landlord. Once accepted, schedule a housing inspection with FWHS. The inspector will check for health and safety standards, including working plumbing, electrical systems, smoke detectors, and structural integrity. If the unit fails inspection, you must find another one.

Step 7: Sign the Lease and Begin Assistance

After the unit passes inspection, you’ll sign a lease with the landlord and a HAP contract with FWHS. The landlord will receive monthly payments directly from FWHS for the portion of rent covered by the voucher. You will pay the remaining balance, typically 30% of your adjusted monthly income.

Do not move in until all contracts are signed and the first payment has been processed. Moving before this step can result in loss of benefits. Keep copies of all signed documents and retain communication records with both your landlord and FWHS.

Once you’re settled, you’ll be required to complete an annual recertification. This involves submitting updated income documents and household information. Failure to comply may result in termination of assistance.

Best Practices

Prepare Documentation in Advance

One of the most common reasons applicants are delayed or disqualified is incomplete documentation. Start gathering your documents months before the waiting list opens. Organize them in a digital folder and a physical binder. Include copies of all IDs, tax returns, pay stubs, birth certificates, and immigration papers. Having everything ready will save you hours during the application and interview process.

Update Contact Information Regularly

Many applicants lose their spot on the waiting list because FWHS cannot reach them. If you change your phone number, email, or address, notify FWHS immediately in writing. Use certified mail or submit updates through their online portal. Do not assume they will find you through public records.

Understand Your Rights and Responsibilities

Section 8 participants have rights under federal law, including protection from discrimination and the right to a fair hearing if benefits are denied or terminated. You also have responsibilities: paying your portion of rent on time, maintaining the property, and reporting changes in income or household composition. Ignorance of these rules can lead to loss of assistance.

Apply for Other Housing Assistance Programs

While waiting for Section 8, explore other housing resources. Fort Worth offers emergency rental assistance, transitional housing, and subsidized senior housing through FWHS and nonprofit organizations. Applying for multiple programs increases your chances of securing housing sooner.

Build a Positive Rental History

Landlords are more likely to accept Section 8 vouchers if they believe the tenant is reliable. Pay your rent on time, keep your current residence clean, and request positive references from past landlords. A strong rental history can make the difference when you’re competing for a desirable unit.

Stay Informed About Policy Changes

HUD and FWHS policies can change annually. Subscribe to FWHS newsletters, attend community housing meetings, and follow local housing advocacy groups. Staying informed helps you adapt quickly to new rules, income thresholds, or application procedures.

Tools and Resources

Fort Worth Housing Solutions (FWHS) Website

The official source for all Section 8 information in Fort Worth is https://www.fwhs.org. Here you can find application portals, waiting list status, payment standards, landlord resources, and downloadable forms. Bookmark this site and check it weekly.

HUD’s Housing Choice Voucher Program Page

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development offers national guidelines and consumer guides at https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/programs/hcv. This site explains federal rules, tenant rights, and how vouchers are calculated.

Section 8 Voucher Calculator

Use HUD’s online voucher calculator to estimate your monthly rent contribution based on your income. This tool helps you understand how much you’ll pay and what kind of housing you can afford: https://www.huduser.gov/portal/datasets/mta.html.

Local Nonprofits and Housing Advocates

Organizations like the Tarrant County Housing Authority, North Texas Food Bank, and United Way of Tarrant County offer housing counseling and application support. They can help you prepare documents, understand eligibility, and navigate the system. Contact them early for guidance.

Online Rental Platforms with Section 8 Filters

Some rental websites now include filters for Section 8 acceptance. Try searching on:

• Apartments.com – Use “Section 8 Accepted” filter
• Zillow – Search “Section 8” in property descriptions
• Craigslist – Use keywords like “Section 8 welcome” or “vouchers accepted”

Free Document Scanning and Storage Apps

Use apps like Adobe Scan, Microsoft Lens, or Google Drive to digitize your documents. Store them securely in cloud folders labeled “Section 8 – ID,” “Section 8 – Income,” etc. This ensures you always have access to your files, even if your phone or computer fails.

Community Resource Centers

FWHS partners with public libraries, community colleges, and faith-based organizations across Fort Worth to provide free computer access and application assistance. Visit your local library’s service desk and ask about housing program support hours.

Real Examples

Example 1: Maria’s Journey from Waiting List to Home

Maria, a single mother of two in Fort Worth, applied for Section 8 in 2020 after losing her job during the pandemic. She had been living in a cramped apartment with mold issues and knew she needed help. She monitored the FWHS website daily and submitted her application the moment the list opened.

She waited nearly four years. During that time, she kept her income documentation updated, attended monthly housing workshops, and volunteered at a local food pantry to build community connections. When her number was called, she was ready with all documents. Within three weeks, she found a two-bedroom apartment that passed inspection. Her rent was $1,100, and she paid $330—30% of her income from part-time work. Her children now have a safe place to study and play.

Example 2: James and the Landlord Misunderstanding

James, a veteran receiving disability benefits, received his voucher in early 2023. He found a nice one-bedroom apartment and assumed the landlord would automatically accept Section 8. When he showed the landlord his voucher, the landlord refused, saying, “I don’t take those.” James didn’t know landlords must comply with federal law if they participate in the program.

He contacted FWHS, who provided him with a letter explaining landlord obligations under the Fair Housing Act. He presented the letter to the landlord, who then agreed to the inspection. The unit passed, and James moved in. His story highlights the importance of knowing your rights and having official documentation to back them up.

Example 3: The Family That Missed Their Chance

A family of five in South Fort Worth applied for Section 8 in 2021 and received a confirmation number. They assumed they were “in the system” and didn’t update their phone number after moving. When FWHS called to schedule their interview, the number was disconnected. After three attempts, they were removed from the list. They had to reapply when the list reopened—delaying their housing by another three years.

This example underscores a simple truth: staying in communication with FWHS is non-negotiable.

FAQs

Can I apply for Section 8 if I have bad credit?

Yes. Section 8 eligibility is based on income and household composition, not credit score. However, landlords may run credit checks and can deny your application based on their own criteria. If you have poor credit, consider finding a landlord who prioritizes voucher participation over credit history.

How long does it take to get a Section 8 voucher after applying?

In Fort Worth, the wait can be 2 to 7 years due to high demand. Some applicants receive vouchers faster if they qualify for priority status, such as homelessness or domestic violence survivor status.

Can I use my Section 8 voucher outside of Fort Worth?

Yes. Section 8 vouchers are portable. Once you’ve been approved and received your voucher, you can move to another city or state and transfer your assistance, as long as the new housing authority accepts incoming vouchers. Notify FWHS in advance if you plan to move.

What if my income increases after I get a voucher?

If your income increases, your rent contribution may rise, but you won’t lose your voucher immediately. You’ll go through annual recertification, and your payment will be recalculated based on your new income. You remain eligible as long as your income stays below 80% of the AMI.

Can I apply if I’m currently homeless?

Yes. Homeless individuals are given priority on the waiting list. Contact FWHS or local shelters for assistance with your application. They can help you provide proof of homelessness and expedite your case.

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to apply?

You must be a U.S. citizen or have eligible immigration status. Eligible non-citizens include lawful permanent residents, refugees, asylees, and certain visa holders. Undocumented immigrants are not eligible.

Can I apply for Section 8 if I’m on SSI or SSDI?

Yes. Social Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) are counted as income but qualify you for assistance if your total household income is below the limit.

What happens if I don’t find a unit within 60 days?

If you don’t find a qualifying unit within your time frame, you may request a 30- to 60-day extension from FWHS. Extensions are granted on a case-by-case basis, especially if you’ve been actively searching. Failure to find housing after extensions may result in loss of the voucher.

Can I rent from a family member using my voucher?

Generally, no. HUD prohibits renting from immediate family members (parents, children, siblings, spouses) to prevent fraud. Exceptions are rare and only made for households with disabilities where the family member acts as a live-in aide.

Is there a limit to how many times I can apply?

You can only have one active application at a time. Submitting multiple applications will result in disqualification. If you’re removed from the list, you may reapply when it reopens.

Conclusion

Applying for Section 8 in Fort Worth is not a quick or easy process, but it is one of the most impactful steps you can take toward housing security. The journey—from checking eligibility, to waiting on a crowded list, to finding the right landlord—requires patience, preparation, and persistence. But for those who follow the steps outlined in this guide, success is achievable.

Section 8 is more than a rent subsidy; it’s a tool for dignity, stability, and opportunity. It allows parents to raise children in safe neighborhoods, seniors to age in place, and individuals recovering from hardship to rebuild their lives. By understanding the system, preparing thoroughly, and staying informed, you position yourself not just to apply—but to succeed.

Remember: You are not alone. Thousands of Fort Worth residents have walked this path before you. Use the tools, reach out to community resources, and never give up. Your housing stability is worth the effort. Start today—gather your documents, check the FWHS website, and prepare for the next opening. Your future home is waiting.