Section 8 Housing Voucher Rent 2027 Calculator
Calculate Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher rent 2027 — Fair Market Rent (FMR) limit, tenant pays 30% of income, HUD pays rest. Compare with market rent.
Section 8 Mechanics
Tenant qualifies based on income (<50% AMI typically). Receives voucher. Finds private landlord. Tenant pays 30% income. HUD pays remainder up to FMR.
FMR Caps
Set annually by HUD per metro area. Public Housing Authority (PHA) may approve up to 110% FMR. Above that, tenant must pay difference.
Landlord Benefits
Guaranteed payment from HUD. Often higher than tenant's portion alone. Vacancy reduction. Standardized inspection (annual).
Landlord Drawbacks
Inspection requirements (must pass HQS — Housing Quality Standards). Slower paperwork than private rental. PHA-required lease clauses.
Source: hud.gov Section 8 HCV regulations, hud.gov FMR data. Last updated: May 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I reject Section 8?
Source-of-income discrimination illegal in 14+ states + DC. Must accept if otherwise qualified. Federally still legal but trending toward bans.
Does Section 8 pay damage?
NO. Tenant responsible for damage like any tenant. Take deposit normally. HUD doesn't pay tenant-caused damage.
Annual recertification?
Yes. Tenant income re-verified annually. Their share adjusts. Landlord receives signed contract renewal.