Can You Be a Felon and Still Qualify for Section 8 Housing?
In the United States, approximately 40% of the prison population has been convicted of a nonviolent crime. Many of these individuals struggle to reintegrate into society after their release due to various barriers, one of which is finding affordable housing. In this article, we will explore whether felons can qualify for Section 8 housing and provide guidance on how to navigate the application process.
What is Section 8 Housing?
Section 8 housing, also known as the Housing Choice Voucher Program, is a federally-funded program that provides rental assistance to low-income families and individuals. Under this program, the government subsidizes a portion of the rent, allowing participants to afford decent and safe housing.
Felony Convictions and Section 8 Eligibility
The short answer to the question of whether felons can qualify for Section 8 housing is that it depends. The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) does not have a blanket ban on felons receiving assistance. However, local public housing authorities (PHAs) have the authority to set their own policies regarding felonies and eligibility.
In some jurisdictions, PHAs may have a “one-strike” policy, meaning that any felony conviction, regardless of the nature of the crime, will automatically disqualify an individual from receiving Section 8 housing. In other jurisdictions, PHAs may consider the specific circumstances of the felony conviction, such as the severity of the crime and the amount of time that has passed since the conviction.
Navigating the Section 8 Application Process with a Felony
If you have a felony conviction and are interested in applying for Section 8 housing, it is important to be prepared to address the issue during the application process. Here are some tips to help you navigate this process:
- Be honest about your criminal history. Do not try to hide or downplay your felony conviction. The PHA will likely conduct a background check, and any discrepancies between your application and the background check could lead to your application being denied.
- Explain the circumstances of your felony conviction. If the felony conviction was not related to violence or drug use, or if it occurred a long time ago, you may want to explain the circumstances to the PHA. This could help the PHA understand that you are not a risk to the community and that you deserve a second chance.
- Provide evidence of rehabilitation. If you have completed any rehabilitation programs or taken other steps to turn your life around since your felony conviction, be sure to provide documentation of this to the PHA. This could include letters of reference from employers, counselors, or community leaders.
- Be prepared to wait. The application process for Section 8 housing can take several months, and it may take even longer if you have a felony conviction. Be patient and persistent, and do not give up if you are initially denied.
Expert Advice
In addition to the tips above, here is some expert advice for felons who are interested in applying for Section 8 housing:
- Contact your local PHA directly. Each PHA has its own policies and procedures regarding felonies and eligibility. By contacting your local PHA, you can get specific information about how to apply and what documentation you will need to provide.
- Seek legal assistance. If you have a felony conviction and are facing barriers in the Section 8 application process, you may want to consider seeking legal assistance. An attorney can help you understand your rights and options and can advocate for you before the PHA.
- Do not give up. If you are initially denied Section 8 housing, do not give up. You can appeal the decision and you can continue to apply for assistance until you are successful.
FAQ
Q: Can I be denied Section 8 housing if I have a felony drug conviction?
A: Yes, you may be denied Section 8 housing if you have a felony drug conviction. However, some PHAs may consider the specific circumstances of the conviction, such as the severity of the crime and the amount of time that has passed since the conviction.
Q: Can I be denied Section 8 housing if I have a felony violent crime conviction?
A: Yes, you may be denied Section 8 housing if you have a felony violent crime conviction. However, some PHAs may consider the specific circumstances of the conviction, such as the severity of the crime and the amount of time that has passed since the conviction.
Q: What should I do if I am denied Section 8 housing due to my felony conviction?
A: If you are denied Section 8 housing due to your felony conviction, you can appeal the decision. You can also contact your local PHA to see if there are any other housing assistance programs that you may be eligible for.
Conclusion
While having a felony conviction can make it more difficult to qualify for Section 8 housing, it is not impossible. By following the tips and advice provided in this article, you can increase your chances of success.
Are you a felon who has been denied Section 8 housing? Share your story in the comments below.
