What is the HCV Program?
The HCV (Section 8) program helps low-income families afford rental housing in the private market. Participants receive a housing voucher and can choose from a wide variety of homes, including single-family houses, townhomes, duplexes, apartments, and mobile homes.
Families can select any unit in the community that meets program requirements and is approved by the landlord. Typically, households pay 30-40% of their monthly adjusted income for rent and utilities, while the program pays the remaining portion directly to the landlord.
This program gives families the flexibility to find a home that fits their needs while making housing more affordable.
Who is eligible to receive HCV (Section 8) rental assistance?
Eligibility for the HCV (Section 8) program is determined by the Housing Authority of San Angelo (HASA) based on household income, household composition, and citizenship status. Assistance is generally limited to U.S. citizens and individuals with eligible immigration status. Each household must include at least one legal citizen or eligible non-citizen.
In general, the family's income cannot exceed 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI) as published by HUD, which varies by location. The HCV (Section 8) program operates on a waiting list based on the date and time of application. Applications can be submitted online. When your name reaches the top of the waiting list, the HASA will invite you to a preliminary briefing to begin the eligibility process.
Where can I live and how is the rental assistance paid?
Once your family receives an HCV, you may search for a unit in the community that meets the rent limits specified in your voucher. The unit must meet HUD standards for being decent, safe, and sanitary. During your voucher certification appointment, you will receive the HUD booklet "A Good Place to Live", which explains these standards in detail.
After you select a unit, the HASA will inspect it to ensure it meets program requirements. Once the unit passes inspection, you must take possession within 14 days of the passed inspection.
The family and landlord will enter into a one-year lease, and HASA will sign a Housing Assistance Payments (HAP) Contract with the landlord. The assisted family agrees to follow the program's rules and obligations and is responsible for paying the portion of rent that exceeds the HAP payment.
Can I move with continued assistance?
The HCV Program allows families to move while continuing to receive assistance, accommodating changes in family size, employment, or other needs. After the first year of assistance, moves are generally permitted if the family:
- Notifies the HASA 45-60 days before the desired move date,
- Fulfills all lease obligations,
- Gives proper notice the current landlord,
- Submits an Intent to Move form to the HASA caseworker, and
- Secures an acceptable new unit.
Voucher holders may select a unit anywhere in the United States if they were living in HASA's jurisdiction at the time of application. Families not initially residing in HASA's jurisdiction must lease a unit within the jurisdiction first. If you wish to move to another Housing Authority's jurisdiction, consult your HASA caseworker to verify the transfer process.
| Utility Allowance Schedules | HCV Brochure | HCV Income Limits 2025 |
Eligibility Income Limits
| Family Size | Gross Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $27,300 |
| 2 | $31,200 |
| 3 | $35,100 |
| 4 | $39,000 |
| 5 | $42,150 |
| 6 | $45,250 |
| 7 | $48,400 |
| 8 | $51,500 |
Payment Standards
| Bedroom | Amount |
|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | $1,098 |
| 2 Bedroom | $1,384 |
| 3 Bedroom | $1,860 |
| 4 Bedroom | $2,078 |
| 5 Bedroom | $2,390 |
Fair Market Rents
| Bedroom | Rent |
|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | $998 |
| 2 Bedroom | $1,258 |
| 3 Bedroom | $1,860 |
| 4 Bedroom | $2,078 |
| 5 Bedroom | $2,390 |