Section 8 is a common name for the Housing Choice Voucher Program, funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The Section 8 program allows private landlords to rent apartments and homes at fair market rates to qualified, low-income tenants, with a rental subsidy administered by Home Forward. Home Forward administers the program throughout Multnomah County. Approved applicants can choose any rental property in Multnomah County that meets Home Forward’s housing quality standards and has a reasonable rent compared with similar units in the market. Tenants negotiate a lease directly with the property owner, and pay a minimum of 28.5% of their income toward the monthly rent. Home Forward pays the remainder directly to the landlord. Landlords use their own lease agreement and the same screening criteria as any other applicant.
