Housing Programs
Explore subsidized housing programs available in Utah
Program Overview
Utah offers several housing assistance programs to help low-income individuals and families find affordable housing. Each program has different eligibility requirements and application processes.
Section 8 (Housing Choice Voucher)
The federal government's largest rental assistance program. Vouchers can be used at any private rental that accepts them.
Public Housing
Affordable rental units owned and managed by local Housing Authorities. Rent is typically 30% of your monthly income.
Project-Based Section 8
Rental assistance tied to specific apartment buildings. When you move, you lose the assistance.
Affordable Units (LIHTC)
Privately-owned apartments that receive tax credits to keep rents affordable for low-income tenants.
OWHLF Properties
Olene Walker Housing Loan Fund provides affordable housing opportunities for Utah families.
HEAT Utility Assistance
Help paying heating and cooling bills for eligible low-income households.
Weatherization Assistance
Free home energy upgrades to lower utility bills for eligible households.
Emergency Housing
Immediate housing assistance for those experiencing homelessness or housing crisis.
Section 8 (Housing Choice Voucher) - Details
Program Summary
The Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCV), commonly known as Section 8, is a federal program that helps very low-income families, the elderly, and the disabled afford decent, safe, and sanitary housing in the private market.
Eligibility
- Income must be below 50% of Area Median Income (AMI)
- Must be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
- Must pass background check (criminal history)
- Must provide Social Security numbers for all household members
How to Apply
- Contact your local Housing Authority
- Submit pre-application when waitlist is open
- Wait for voucher (can take months or years)
- Find a landlord who accepts vouchers
- Pass housing quality inspection
Required Documents
- Photo ID for all adults
- Social Security cards
- Birth certificates
- Proof of income (pay stubs, benefits letters)
- Tax returns (if self-employed)
Public Housing - Details
Program Summary
Public housing is owned and operated by local Housing Authorities. These developments provide affordable rental housing to low-income families, seniors, and persons with disabilities.
Eligibility
- Must qualify as low-income (typically below 80% AMI)
- Must pass criminal background check
- Must have acceptable rental history
- Some properties have age restrictions (62+ or 55+)
How to Apply
- Contact the local Housing Authority
- Complete application for specific property
- Provide all required documentation
- Interview with housing staff
- Wait for unit availability
HEAT Utility Assistance - Details
Program Summary
The Home Energy Assistance Target (HEAT) program helps low-income Utah households with winter heating bills and summer cooling costs.
Eligibility
- Must be at or below 150% of Federal Poverty Level
- Must be responsible for heating/cooling costs
- Must live in Utah
Benefit Amount
Average benefit is $300-$800 per heating season, depending on income and household size.