The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program—commonly known as Section 8—is one of the most critical housing assistance programs in the United States, helping low-income individuals and families afford stable, decent housing in the private market. This session will provide attendees with a foundational understanding of how the HCV program operates, including key regulations and procedures. Attendees will learn about common reasons tenants lose their vouchers, such as alleged lease violations, missed deadlines, or program compliance issues. The session will also explore how to intervene to preserve a client’s housing assistance—whether through administrative hearings, negotiations with landlords and housing authorities, or educating clients about their rights and responsibilities. Practical tips and case examples will equip advocates to better serve clients and prevent unnecessary loss of vital housing supports.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the basic structure and eligibility requirements of the Housing Choice Voucher Program, including the three-way partnership between housing authorities, landlords, and voucher-holders.
- Identify the most common causes of voucher termination or denial and recognize early warning signs that a client may be at risk of losing their housing assistance.
- Learn effective legal strategies and advocacy approaches for helping clients retain their vouchers, including preparing for informal hearings, negotiating with landlords and housing authorities, and addressing client-side compliance issues.
