North Dakota Section 8 Housing
/The North Dakota Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program, managed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), helps low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities access affordable, safe housing in the private rental market. This guide provides updated insights into the program’s eligibility, application process, wait times, and more.
Whether you're seeking to apply for assistance or need alternatives to Section 8, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and resources to navigate North Dakota’s housing assistance options effectively.
Who Qualifies for Section 8 Housing in North Dakota?
To be eligible for Section 8 housing in North Dakota, individuals and families must meet certain requirements. These requirements include income limits, household size, and other factors such as citizenship and criminal history.
The income limit for Section 8 housing in North Dakota is based on the median income for the area and varies depending on the size of the household. Applicants must also be U.S. citizens, legal immigrants, or refugees who are lawfully present in the U.S. Additionally, applicants must pass a criminal background check.
Other eligibility factors may include a history of evictions, drug or alcohol abuse, or other criminal activities. Applicants who have been convicted of certain types of crimes may be disqualified from the program.
What is the Maximum Amount of Rent That Section 8 Will Pay in North Dakota?
The payment standards used by Section 8 in North Dakota determine the maximum amount of rent that the program will pay on behalf of eligible households. These payment standards are based on the fair market rent (FMR) for the area in which the rental unit is located.
The FMR is determined by HUD and is based on the average rent for units of similar size and quality in the local area. The payment standard for Section 8 in North Dakota is set at 90% of the FMR. This means that eligible households are responsible for paying the remaining 10% of the rent.
Income Limits for Section 8 Housing in North Dakota
To be eligible for Section 8 housing in North Dakota, applicants must meet certain income limits. These limits are set based on the area median income (AMI) and are adjusted for household size.
As of 2025, the income limits for Section 8 housing in North Dakota range from $28,300 for a one-person household to $58,750 for an eight-person household. These limits are updated annually by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) based on changes to the Area Median Income (AMI).
The following table shows the current income limits for Section 8 housing in North Dakota:
Income is calculated for Section 8 eligibility using the household's total gross income, which includes all sources of income, such as wages, Social Security benefits, and child support. Certain deductions may be applied to this total gross income, such as for dependents and medical expenses.
The income limits are updated annually to ensure that they remain in line with changes in the AMI. This means that households that may not have been eligible in the past may now be eligible due to changes in the income limits.
Fair Market Rents for Section 8 Housing in North Dakota
Fair market rents (FMRs) are used to determine the payment standards for Section 8 housing in North Dakota. FMRs are calculated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and are based on the average rent for units of similar size and quality in a given area.
HUD calculates FMRs for different types of housing units, including one-bedroom, two-bedroom, three-bedroom, four-bedroom, and larger units. FMRs are adjusted for different geographic areas, so the FMR for a given area in North Dakota may be different from the FMR in another area of the state.
The following table shows the current Fair Market Rents in North Dakota.
FMRs are not the same as actual rents in a given area. Actual rents may be higher or lower than the FMR, depending on factors such as the condition of the rental unit and the location of the unit within a given area.
How Do I Apply for Section 8 Housing in North Dakota?
Applying for Section 8 requires these important steps:
Contacting Your Local Housing Authority: Here are the details for key housing authorities:
Fargo Housing & Redevelopment Authority: Visit Website
Bismarck Municipal Housing Authority: Visit Website
Grand Forks Housing Authority: Visit Website
Completing the Application Process: Applications can typically be submitted online, in person, or via mail. Required documents include:
Proof of income (e.g., pay stubs, tax returns).
Social Security numbers for all household members.
Information on household size, assets, and rental history.
Eligibility Confirmation and Placement on Waitlists: Applications are reviewed for eligibility, and eligible applicants may be placed on a waiting list depending on funding availability.
Carefully review the application instructions and provide all requested information and documentation. Incomplete or inaccurate applications may delay the processing of the application or result in a denial of benefits.
After the application is submitted, the housing authority will review the application and determine whether the household meets the eligibility requirements for the program. If eligible, the household will be placed on a waiting list for assistance. The length of the waiting list may vary depending on the availability of funds and the number of households already on the list.
North Dakota Housing Authorities
Housing authorities play a critical role in administering Section 8 housing in North Dakota. These agencies are responsible for reviewing applications, determining eligibility, and managing the waiting list for assistance.
In North Dakota, there are several housing authorities that administer the Section 8 program. These housing authorities are responsible for overseeing the program in their respective service areas and working with landlords to provide rental assistance to eligible households.
The following table contains the details of Housing Authorities in North Dakota.
| Housing Authority | Contact Information | Visit Website |
|---|---|---|
| Fargo Housing & Redevelopment Authority | 325 Broadway N, Fargo, ND 58102 Phone: (701) 293-6262 Email: info@fargohousing.org |
Visit Website |
| Bismarck Municipal Housing Authority | 1300 Tacoma Ave, Bismarck, ND 58504 Phone: (701) 258-8825 Email: bmha@bmhaonline.com |
Visit Website |
| Grand Forks Housing Authority | 1405 1st Ave N, Grand Forks, ND 58203 Phone: (701) 746-2545 Email: info@gfhousing.org |
Visit Website |
| Minot Housing Authority | 2000 8th St NW, Minot, ND 58703 Phone: (701) 852-0400 Email: info@minothousing.org |
Visit Website |
| Williston Housing Authority | 1002 11th St W, Williston, ND 58801 Phone: (701) 572-5556 Email: wha@nemont.net |
Visit Website |
Housing authorities are also responsible for conducting annual inspections of rental units to ensure that they meet HUD's housing quality standards. These standards require that rental units meet basic health and safety requirements, such as having working smoke detectors and safe electrical and plumbing systems.
In addition to administering the Section 8 program, housing authorities may also provide other housing assistance programs for low-income households. These programs may include public housing, which provides rental units owned and operated by the housing authority, and other rental assistance programs.
Section 8 Housing Waiting List in North Dakota
Due to the high demand for affordable housing assistance, there may be a waiting list for Section 8 housing in North Dakota. The waiting list is managed by the local housing authority and is used to prioritize eligible households for assistance based on their level of need.
When an eligible household applies for Section 8 housing in North Dakota, their application is placed on the waiting list. The length of the waiting list may vary depending on the availability of funds and the number of households already on the list. It is not uncommon for waiting lists to be closed due to high demand, so it is important to check with the local housing authority for the most up-to-date information. The following list shows the current waiting list status for Housing Authorities in North Dakota.
| Housing Authority | Waiting List Status |
|---|---|
| Fargo Housing & Redevelopment Authority | Open |
| Bismarck Municipal Housing Authority | Open |
| Grand Forks Housing Authority | Closed |
| Minot Housing Authority | Open |
| Williston Housing Authority | Open |
| Devils Lake Housing Authority | Closed |
| Jamestown Housing Authority | Open |
Wait times vary by location and demand. Key insights for 2025 include:
Fargo: Waitlist open; average wait time 6-12 months.
Bismarck: Waitlist open; average wait time 9-15 months.
Grand Forks: Waitlist closed; reopening uncertain.
To reduce wait times, applicants should apply to multiple housing authorities, keep their contact details updated, and explore alternative housing options while waiting. For a detailed overview of current waiting lists and their statuses, visit our Section 8 Waiting List page to stay informed about openings and availability.
How Long Does it Take to Get Approved for Section 8 in North Dakota?
The time it takes to get approved for Section 8 housing in North Dakota can vary depending on several factors. In general, the approval process can take several weeks to several months.
One factor that can impact the length of the approval process is the availability of funds. Due to the high demand for affordable housing assistance, there may be a waiting list for Section 8 housing in North Dakota. The length of the waiting list can vary and can impact the time it takes to get approved for assistance.
Another factor that can impact the approval process is the completeness and accuracy of the application. Incomplete or inaccurate applications may delay the processing of the application or result in a denial of benefits. Applicants should carefully review the application instructions and provide all requested information and documentation.
To speed up the approval process, applicants can take several steps. These include:
Completing the application accurately and thoroughly
Providing all required documentation with the application
Responding promptly to requests for additional information
Keeping the local housing authority informed of any changes in contact information
Other Low Income Housing Options in North Dakota
In addition to Section 8 housing, there are several other low income housing options available in North Dakota for individuals and families who are seeking affordable housing. These options may include public housing, privately-owned affordable housing, and other rental assistance programs.
Public housing is a type of low income housing that is owned and operated by the local housing authority. Public housing units are typically available to households with very low incomes and offer rents that are typically lower than those in the private rental market.
Privately-owned affordable housing may be owned by non-profit organizations, developers, or other entities. These properties may offer rental units at below-market rents and may be subject to income restrictions and other eligibility requirements.
Other rental assistance programs in North Dakota may provide financial assistance to help eligible households pay for housing costs, such as rent or utilities. These programs may include the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) or the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program.
The advantages and disadvantages of different affordable housing options may vary depending on the individual needs and circumstances of the household. For example, Section 8 housing may offer more flexibility in terms of choosing a rental unit, while public housing may offer greater stability in terms of long-term affordability.
To apply for other types of affordable housing in North Dakota, applicants should contact their local housing authority or other relevant agencies for more information. Each program may have its own application process and eligibility requirements.
FAQs About Section 8 Housing in North Dakota
How Long Does Section 8 Approval Take?
Approval timelines range from several weeks to months, depending on application accuracy and housing authority capacity.
Can Section 8 Vouchers Be Transferred?
Yes, vouchers are portable and can be transferred to other cities or states with open waitlists.
What Happens If My Income Changes?
Report income changes immediately, as this may impact your eligibility or rent contribution.
Navigating Affordable Housing Options in North Dakota
Successfully navigating the Section 8 process in North Dakota requires understanding eligibility, application steps, and alternative housing options. Whether you're pursuing a voucher or exploring programs like public housing or subsidized rentals, taking informed action is critical to securing safe and affordable living arrangements for you and your family.
Resources like local housing authorities and Affordable Housing Hub provide essential guidance for every step of the journey. Begin your application today or research alternative solutions to address your immediate housing needs.
