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How to apply for section 8 housing in California?

I was wondering is it possible to apply for section 8 housing before I move to California?I live in Chicago.Can I do it over the internet?

Public Comments

1. No. You must have an established residency in the county your applying to. Also, the wait list in most CA counties is over 6 years long.
2. You can apply for Section 8 no matter where you live. BUT, depending on the Housing Authority you apply with, they may have additional preference for where you live at the time they accept you. It does help if you are already within the county. By preference, I mean that they may give your family a point if you have a disabled person, and another point if you live within the county. The more points you get, the higher you may get placed on a waiting list (if there is a list to begin with). Otherwise, it would usually be a lottery (random chance). Some Housing Authorities allow you to do it over the internet, some by mail, yet others in person only. Many have websites you can visit and when their waiting list is open, it'll also say how to apply. For example, Oakland Housing Authority in California is accepting applications from January 25-29th. They provide an online application. Give it try! It won't hurt to apply. Good luck! (edited my typo in the first line, how embarrassing!)
3. You have to reside in the state where you apply for Section 8. Every city and county Housing Authority in California has a waitlist of 5 to 10 years. The only preferences I know of are former veterans and homeless. You can try a rural county and they will have a shorter waitlist for a voucher. If you get a voucher in your county you can take it to California.
4. No, you can only apply in 2 counties in CA. The one you already live in and the one you work in. Since you are neither you will not be applying. You have to go into the offices to apply.