Suggested Steps for Applying to Subsidized Housing

1. Create a CHAMP account and apply for all the state-subsidized properties in cities you would like to live in.

• • You can access the CHAMP website right here: (ocd.state.ma.us/)
  • If you’re not able to create an online account, you can ask for a copy from us or print one out at gov/guides/how-to-apply-for-public-housing
    • • Once you complete the form, send it to the nearest housing authoritity

2. Create a GoSection8.com account and apply for the Massachusetts Centralized Section 8 HCV Waiting List

• • You will need to log in multiple times to start the application
    • • Enter your zip code and click on the closest housing authority in the search results. This will link you to the waiting list pre-application.
      • Login to your goSection8.com account every 3 months to keep your application active.
      • If you’re not able to create an online account, you can ask for a copy from us or print one out at org/How_to_Apply.php
      • Once you complete the form, send it to your local housing authority

3. Complete the Department of Housing and Urban Development (DHCD) Section 8 project-based and Section 8 HCV pre-applications at the back of this packet and mail to:

• Community Teamwork (155 Merrimack Street, Lowell, MA 01852)

4. If you are under the age of 60 and have a disability, apply for the Alternative Housing Voucher program.

• • The application for AHVP can be found at Mass.gov (gov/service-details/alternative-housing-voucher-program-ahvp)
  • Check the Mass.gov website for housing authorities that have open AHVP waiting lists (https://www.mass.gov/doc/ahvp-issuing-administering-agencies-1/download)
    • • Note: You do not need to live in the cities that you apply for AHVP vouchers in.

5. Research different housing authorities to see if they manage any properties that are not on the CHAMP. Many have units that are subsidized through the federal government and you must apply to them individually. You can find the contact information for each housing authority in our service area on the North Shore/Cape Ann Local Housing Authority List on page 10.

6.  Apply for privately-owned subsidized properties in cities where you want to live. You can find listings in the following places:

• • The North Shore/Cape Ann Private Subsidized Housing List on page 12 of this document
  • North Shore Elder Services Subsidized Housing List (https://nselder.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Subsidized-Housing-May-2019.pdf)
  • Mass Housing List (https://www.masshousing.com/renters/housing-list)
  • Housingworks (https://www.housingworks.net)
  • Meet with a Disability Resource Specialist!

7. Use the Housing Tracking Sheet on page six to keep track of where you have applied, including:

• • Name of the housing agency,
  • Date you sent the application,
  • ID Number, and
  • Denials

8. If you change your mailing address or phone number while on the waiting list, be sure to contact each provider and provide them with your new information by mail. Be sure to also turn on mail forwarding at the USPS website or your local post office. If you do not, the housing provider may remove your name from the waiting list.

9. Respond to EVERY piece of mail the housing authority sends you and keep copies of letters.

10. Work on clearing up or at least addressing any charges that might be listed in your Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI), as well, as credit, substance abuse, or tenancy problems right now so you’re the strongest candidate you can be when you reach the top of the waiting lists.