The Housing Choice Voucher Program (HUD - Section) is the Federal government's major program for assisting very low-income families, the elderly and the disabled decent, safe and affordable housing in the private market.

 

The Winchester Housing Authority primarily services families and individuals within Winsted and the surrounding communities.

 

Eligibility for a Housing Choice Voucher is determined by the Public Housing Authority (PHA) based on the total annual gross income and family size. The program is limited to U.S. citizens and specified categories of non-citizens who have eligible immigration status.

 

Winchester Housing Authority performs criminal background checks on every applicant age 18 years and older. Some applicants may be found ineligible for assistance according to the Winchester Housing's Administration policy guidelines.

 

In most communities, there are not enouch vouchers for everyone who needs one, so there is usually a long waiting list. Applicants move from the bottom of the waiting list to the top. Sometimes this takes a short amount of time and sometimes this takes an extended period of time; depending on many factors.

 

Upon successful completion of an application and income eligibility, and if the PHA determines the applicant is eligible, the applicant is put on a waiting list. When an applicant reaches the top of the list, they will be required to supply current documentation to verify eligibility for the Housing Choice Voucher Program. The PHA may also screen the applicant with regard to prior tenant and criminal history. Once the applicant is determined eligible for the program, he / she is issused a voucher.