Georgia
Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program
Formerly known as Section 8
​The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program, commonly known as Section 8, is a federally funded initiative administered in Georgia by the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) and various local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs). This program provides tenant-based rental assistance to very low-income individuals and families, enabling them to rent safe, decent, and affordable housing in the private market.
Program Administration and Jurisdictional Differences
In Georgia, the DCA administers the HCV Program across 149 of the state's 159 counties through regional offices. The remaining 10 counties are managed by their respective local housing authorities. This structure ensures statewide accessibility, though specific policies and procedures may vary between jurisdictions.
Benefits for Property Owners
Participating in the HCV program offers several advantages to landlords:
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Consistent Rental Payments: Landlords receive timely subsidy payments directly from the administering agency, ensuring a reliable income stream.
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Tenant Screening Autonomy: Property owners maintain the right to screen and select tenants based on their criteria, provided they comply with fair housing laws.
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Support for Community Welfare: By offering housing to low-income families, landlords contribute to community development and stability
Mission and Public Interest
The primary mission of the HCV program is to:
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Enhance Living Conditions: Assist extremely low and low-income individuals and families in securing affordable housing while ensuring their rent payments remain manageable.
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Promote Housing Choice: Encourage freedom of housing choice and integrate lower-income and minority persons into mainstream society.
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Ensure Safe Housing: Provide decent, safe, and affordable housing for eligible participants.​​