All Laws Decoded

Section 8 in Missouri: Housing Authorities and How to Apply

Section 8 (the Housing Choice Voucher program) is run by local public housing agencies (PHAs). You apply to the agency that serves where you want to live; many keep waiting lists that open only at times. Here are the agencies serving Missouri's largest areas, from HUD's official contact list and each agency's site.

Is it illegal for a Missouri landlord to refuse Section 8? No. Missouri has no statewide ban on refusing voucher holders. Since 28 Aug 2025, cities and counties (including charter governments) are also barred from enacting, keeping, or enforcing ordinances that stop landlords from refusing tenants whose rent is paid partly with federal or other housing assistance. Local ordinances protecting recipients of veterans' benefits remain allowed. RSMo 441.043.2(1), .4 (as amended by L. 2025 H.B. 595 & 343)

Housing authorities in Missouri

Source: HUD public housing agency contact list. Check the agency's own site before applying; waiting lists open and close.

Statewide housing agency

Missouri Housing Development Commission (MHDC) — MHDC does not hand out rent payments directly to tenants. Its renters page points to an affordable housing locator, HUD rental assistance and eviction-prevention resources, and Missouri's 19 community action agencies, many of which can help with rent or utility bills. MHDC also funds homelessness-prevention programs (Emergency Solutions Grant and the Missouri Housing Trust Fund) delivered through local agencies.

Help paying rent in Missouri

How to apply

  1. Find the housing authority for the city or county where you want to live (list above).
  2. Check whether its voucher waiting list is open; many open for short windows or use a lottery.
  3. Apply only through the agency's official site or office. Applying is free — no one may charge you to get on a list.
  4. Keep your contact information current with the agency so you do not lose your place.
  5. When a voucher is issued, you find a rental whose rent fits the agency's payment standard and that passes inspection.

Rent levels (HUD Fair Market Rent) and local help by county

Missouri tenant rights · Free legal help in Missouri · Section 8 in other states

General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.