Section 8 housing enrollment reopens after 4 years with online application

SEATTLE — For the first time in four years, low income families can apply for help paying their rent.

The King County Housing Authority opened the online application process at 6 a.m. Wednesday.

In 2011, the last time the Housing Authority opened enrollment, there were 25,000 people who applied for just 2,500 spots.

Back then, there were long lines at housing offices to apply.

But this time, the application process is online only.

The Section 8 program provides rent vouchers to low income families, making up the difference between what landlords charge and what they can afford.

The need has always been high. But after the recession, the need has far exceeded the resources for the subsidy.

And because so many people will apply, the applicants will be put in a lottery to decide who is added to the 2,500 person wait list.

Those selected will know by March and could have the first vouchers by April.

The online application process is up and running.  Applicants should only apply through the  King County Housing Authority website.

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