New Hampshire Section 8

In New Hampshire, New Hampshire Housing manages about 4,300 Housing Choice Vouchers across the state under the program formerly known as Section 8. Local public housing agencies (PHAs) may also run their own programs. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) sets the income limits and Fair Market Rents that they use.

Who is eligible for Section 8 in New Hampshire?

To be eligible for a Housing Choice Voucher, your household must meet three requirements:¹

• Your income must generally be at or below the very low-income limit for your county and household size.
• You must be a “family,” which includes a single person, and at least one member must be a U.S. citizen or have eligible immigration status.
• You must meet the housing agency’s screening requirements.

What is the income limit for Section 8 in New Hampshire?

For a Housing Choice Voucher, a family generally has to be at or below the very low-income limit, which is 50% of the area’s median family income.¹ In New Hampshire, that limit for a family of four is between $58,800 and $85,700 a year, depending on the county. For a family of three it is between $52,950 and $77,150.²

At least 75% of new vouchers go to families under the extremely low-income limit, which is 30% of the area median. The calculator above shows all three limits for your county and household size. Your housing agency makes the final decision, and meeting the limit does not guarantee a voucher.

What is the Fair Market Rent in New Hampshire?

Fair Market Rent (FMR) is HUD’s estimate of what a modest rental costs in an area, including utilities. In New Hampshire, the FY2027 FMR for a two-bedroom unit ranges from $1,195 a month in 43 counties (including Atkinson and Gilmanton Aca, Coos County) to $3,008 in Seabrook town, Rockingham County and South Hampton town, Rockingham County.³ Your housing agency sets a payment standard, usually between 90% and 110% of the FMR, that limits how much of your rent a voucher can cover.⁴

Is Section 8 open in New Hampshire?

New Hampshire Housing’s voucher FAQ states that the waiting list is open at this time and that this may not be true in the future. It estimates a wait of 7 to 9 years for most applicants, and the page carries no date. Other agencies open their lists only for certain periods, so ask each local agency about the status of its list.

How much does Section 8 pay in New Hampshire?

In New Hampshire, the rental subsidy is typically calculated as the difference between 30% of the household’s adjusted gross income and the current applicable payment standard.

How do I apply for Section 8 in New Hampshire?

There is no cost to apply. Applicants apply through the New Hampshire Housing portal by selecting Applicant Login. Applicants who cannot apply online may call 1-800-439-7247 or 603-472-8623 to have an application mailed. New Hampshire Housing states that an applicant’s income must be below 50% of the area median income. For other areas, apply through the public housing agency that serves the county or city.

1. Find your local PHA. Each county or metropolitan area has its own public housing agency (PHA) with a separate waiting list. You may apply to more than one agency.
2. Join the waiting list. Submit a pre-application when the list is open. Agencies commonly ask for proof of identity, income and household composition.
3. Wait for your turn. The wait varies by agency. An agency may remove an applicant who does not respond to its notices, so keep your contact information current.
4. Receive and use your voucher. The agency inspects the unit before the lease begins. You pay a share of your income toward rent, and the voucher covers the rest up to the agency’s payment standard.⁴

If you need help locating a PHA, call HUD’s PIH Customer Service Center at (800) 955-2232 or look up through the official HUD’s directory of public housing agencies (PHAs).