What is the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher?
Section 8 is a rental assistance program funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). It is designed to assist very low-income families with the ability to rent apartments, condominiums or homes in the private market.

The Fort Smith Housing Authority (FSHA) issues Housing Choice Vouchers (voucher) to families that meet income guidelines established by HUD. Utilizing their voucher, the families pay approximately 30% to 40% of their adjusted income towards rent and utilities and FSHA pays the difference.

Rent is established based on rents paid for comparable unassisted units in the neighborhood where the unit is located. Rents may not exceed the Fair Market Rent (FMR) established by HUD.

Tenant screening and selection are up to the landlord. Landlords must use the same selection criteria they use to select market rate tenants. Section 8 participants must comply with the terms of the lease, including prompt payment of rent and proper care of the unit. The landlord may choose not to renew the lease at the end of the initial one-year term or any term thereafter.

If a landlord is approached by an applicant who has yet to receive assistance through our program, please refer them to FSHA - (479) 782-4991.