All Laws Decoded

Section 8 in Virginia: 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 Virginia's largest areas, from HUD's official contact list and each agency's site.

Is it illegal for a Virginia landlord to refuse Section 8? Yes. The Virginia Fair Housing Law bars refusing to rent, discriminating in terms, discriminatory advertising, and misrepresenting availability because of 'source of funds'. Va. Code § 36-96.3(A)

Housing authorities in Virginia

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

Statewide housing agency

Virginia Housing (Virginia Housing Development Authority) — Administers the Housing Choice Voucher program through local agencies in areas without their own housing authority, runs the free VirginiaHousingSearch.com rental search, offers renter education, and provides grants for accessibility modifications to rental homes.

Help paying rent in Virginia

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

Virginia tenant rights · Free legal help in Virginia · 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.