Housing Choice Voucher

The rules and regulations for the Housing Choice Voucher Program are determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The Housing Authority of the City of Winston-Salem creates policies and procedures for implementing the regulations.

The success of the program depends on the Housing Authority being able to contract with property managers, owners and landlords who have decent, safe and sanitary rental units. The program is designed to be voluntary by property owners. Many low income families in the community rely on property owners to make their units available in order for them to participate in the Housing Choice Voucher Program. Without owners, the program could not succeed.

The subsidy that comes with the Housing Choice Voucher Program helps families to rent in many different neighborhoods. Families may include elderly persons, disabled persons, singles, and families with children-all who do not earn enough to keep pace with rising rental housing costs. It is the goal of the Housing Authority of the City of Winston-Salem to provide excellent service to the families and owners participating in the Housing Choice Voucher Program. We will make every effort to inform both participants and owners of changing program rules and the effect they have on participation in the program.

The Housing Authority of the City of Winston-Salem currently subsidizes approximately 4600 families with Housing Choice Vouchers. Just as the name implies, families have the "choice" in the selection of their unit in the private market. Single family dwellings, condominiums, apartments, duplexes, and mobile homes that meet rent and inspection guidelines may be eligible.

Families will pay approximately 40 percent of their monthly adjusted income toward rent and utilities and once the unit has been determined rent-reasonable, the Housing Authority will pay the difference. The family's portion of the rent is paid directly to the owner and the Housing Authority deposits their payment into a bank account designated by the owner. Direct deposit of owner's payments is mandatory.

Due to the number of applicants currently on the Section 8 waiting list, the waiting list for the Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCV) is currently closed. Should we receive additional funding or exhaust the number of families currently on the waiting list, the waiting list will reopen. 

If you should have questions regarding the Housing Choice Voucher Program or how to participate as an owner in the program, please contact the HCV Management Team , at (336) 917-6086.