The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) or Section 8 Program provides assistance for low-income families in the private rental market through the Housing Assistance Payments Program. Housing Choice Voucher holders select a unit from the private rental market. Rental assistance makes market rate housing affordable. Program participants normally pay no more than 30% of their monthly-income and FPHA pays the remainder directly to the landlord. As part of a family’s monthly rental allowance, HUD also includes a utility allowance. Utility allowances can be small or large, ranging from less than $10 to over $200 for a resident household per month, depending on the number of utilities and uses covered, and the dwelling unit and/or household size.

The Fort Payne Housing Authority administers approximately 111 vouchers. With a voucher, a family is able to select a home in the private rental market. If the family chooses to move, the assistance is transferable. All housing must be inspected by FPHA and meet Housing Quality Standards.