Skip to main content
SearchCall PHACheck Waitlist Status (opens in new window)EmergencyEspañol
Peoria Housing Authority

Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8)

The Housing Choice Voucher program helps eligible families afford housing in the private rental market by subsidizing a portion of rent.

Eligibility

Eligibility is based on total annual gross income and family size. Income limits are set by HUD and updated annually. Local preferences may apply during selection.

How to Apply

  1. Check if the waitlist is open by calling (309) 676-8736
  2. Obtain an application during open enrollment periods
  3. Submit your completed application with required documents
  4. Wait for placement on the waitlist
  5. Attend a briefing if selected from the waitlist
  6. Search for housing that meets program requirements

Office Hours

Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Required Documents

  • Photo ID for all adults
  • Birth certificates for all household members
  • Social Security cards
  • Proof of income (pay stubs, benefit letters, bank statements)
  • Current lease (if applicable)

Related Documents

Check Waitlist Status

You can check your waitlist status through the official waitlist portal.

Important: The waitlist portal is a separate system. PHA's main website will never ask for your Social Security number. Do not enter your SSN on this site.

Go to Waitlist Portal (External)

Landlords

Are you a landlord or property owner interested in participating in the Housing Choice Voucher program? Learn about the benefits and submit an inquiry.

Landlord Inquiry

What is HCV?

The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, also known as Section 8, helps eligible low-income families, seniors, and persons with disabilities afford housing in the private rental market. The program is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and administered locally by the Peoria Housing Authority.

How It Works

With a Housing Choice Voucher, you choose your own housing in the private market. Once you find a unit that passes inspection and meets program requirements:

  • PHA pays a portion of your rent directly to the landlord each month
  • You pay the remaining portion, which is typically 30-40% of your adjusted monthly income
  • You can move with your voucher if your circumstances change (portability rules apply)

Local Preferences

When selecting applicants from the waitlist, PHA may give preference to families who meet certain criteria. Local preferences may include:

  • Families who are currently homeless
  • Veterans and their families
  • Victims of domestic violence
  • Families who live or work in Peoria County
  • Elderly or disabled individuals

PHA may apply local preferences during the selection process; contact us at (309) 676-8736 for current details about preferences and how applicants are selected from the waitlist.

Voucher Portability

If you already have a Housing Choice Voucher from another housing authority, you may be able to use it in Peoria County. Contact PHA to discuss portability options and requirements.

For Landlords

Property owners and landlords play a vital role in the HCV program. Benefits of participating include:

  • Reliable monthly rental payments from PHA
  • Access to a pool of pre-screened tenants
  • Support from PHA staff throughout the tenancy

Units must pass a Housing Quality Standards (HQS) inspection before a family can move in. Contact our landlord liaison for more information about becoming an HCV landlord.

Questions?

For questions about the Housing Choice Voucher program, current waitlist status, or application procedures, contact us:

  • Phone: (309) 676-8736
  • Office: 100 S. Richard Pryor Place, Peoria, IL 61605
  • Hours: Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.