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Do I need to be on disability to be accepted for section 8 housing?

For section 8 housing I understand I need a voucher. In order to be accepted for this, does it require you to be either elderly, disabled, or a single parent? Or does it consider anyone with low income? I am 23 years old, I have no kids, and I am not disabled. I just have very low income and live in a small town where I'm finding it difficult to find a 2nd job on top of my part time job. I need housing. Is section 8 an option for someone young and healthy?

Public Comments

1. I think the problem is that section 8 has a huge waiting list and you are sorted behind all of the other groups that need it too. Elderly and/or disabled will get preferences over single and able-bodied.
2. It accepts anyone. Sadly there is a HUGE waiting list. Where I live the wait it over a year and some had been on it for two years.
3. You are not qualified. Sec 8 priorities are the elderly & disabled, then the elderly or disabled - in other words preference to those who have no way of working & supporting themselves any longer, those who have no family who can care for them, those who have nothing but their Social Security. Then comes low-income households with minor child. Waiting lists for Sec 8 across the US average more than 5 years now. Many cities have waiting lists of 7-10 years. So even if you did qualify to apply, you wouldn't get anything. Your options are find a 2nd job; find another way to increase your income (home-based biz, sale of your handmade crafts, babysitting, whatever); find a smaller unit; find a cheaper unit such as utilities included; find a room to rent; find a roommate; or join the Bounceback Kids Syndrome - college grads who move back in with Mom & Dad because they cannot earn enough to cover student loans + rent in today's very glutted - therefore very low-paying - job market.
4. Anyone can apply for Section 8 housing or vouchers. Priority is given to families, disabled and seniors who go up the waitlist faster. But, there are emergency vouchers for government-displaced people, homeless and veterans. The normal waiting period is 5 years for a voucher or site-specific apartment. Most people are low income. There are income limits which vary in every county. In a smaller town you may move up the waitlist a little sooner than in a heavily populated area. You may have to share an apartment or rent a room to save money.
5. No, you will not qualify. They will not deny a disabled person, children or the elderly housing so you can have more party money. You would not even qualify with kids since you only work part time, you would still be required to work at least 32 hours a week.