If you are struggling to afford rent in North Dakota, the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program may be able to help. This federally funded program, administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), helps low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities pay for safe, decent housing in the private rental market. North Dakota has multiple local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) that manage the program across the state. In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about how to apply for Section 8 in North Dakota, including eligibility requirements, income limits, required documents, and a complete list of local housing authorities.
Not sure which benefits you qualify for? Use our free benefits screener to check your eligibility for Section 8 and other assistance programs in minutes. You can also visit our North Dakota Benefits Overview for a complete look at all available programs in the state.
What Is Section 8 in North Dakota?
Section 8, officially known as the Housing Choice Voucher Program, provides rental assistance to eligible households. Once approved, you receive a voucher that covers a portion of your monthly rent. You are responsible for paying roughly 30% of your adjusted gross income toward rent, and the voucher covers the difference up to the local payment standard.
The program gives participants flexibility to choose their own housing, including apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes, as long as the landlord agrees to participate and the unit meets HUD quality standards. In North Dakota, the program is managed by local PHAs rather than a single statewide office.
Who Is Eligible for Section 8 in North Dakota?
To qualify for a Housing Choice Voucher in North Dakota, you must meet several requirements:
- Income limits: Your household income must fall below HUD's income limits for your area (typically 50% of area median income for "very low income" status). HUD requires that at least 75% of new vouchers go to families at or below 30% of area median income (extremely low income).
- Citizenship or immigration status: You must be a U.S. citizen or have eligible immigration status.
- Background check: PHAs conduct criminal background screening. Certain serious offenses, such as drug manufacturing or sex offenses, may disqualify applicants under HUD regulations.
- Rental history: A clean rental history with no recent evictions or outstanding debts to landlords is generally required.
- Family composition: You must meet HUD's definition of a "family," which can include a single person, a family with children, elderly individuals, or persons with disabilities.
Preferences vary by PHA. Some North Dakota housing authorities give priority to veterans, the elderly, people with disabilities, or families experiencing homelessness.
North Dakota Section 8 Income Limits
Income limits for the Section 8 program are set by HUD and vary by county and metropolitan area. They are based on the area median income (AMI) and updated annually. The table below shows approximate very low income (50% AMI) limits for selected areas in North Dakota as of the most recent HUD data:
Bismarck Area (Burleigh County)
| Household Size | Very Low Income (50% AMI) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $35,950 |
| 2 | $41,050 |
| 3 | $46,200 |
| 4 | $51,300 |
| 5 | $55,450 |
| 6 | $59,550 |
| 7 | $63,650 |
| 8 | $67,750 |
Fargo Area (Cass County)
| Household Size | Very Low Income (50% AMI) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $35,200 |
| 2 | $40,200 |
| 3 | $45,250 |
| 4 | $50,250 |
| 5 | $54,300 |
| 6 | $58,300 |
| 7 | $62,300 |
| 8 | $66,350 |
Rural Counties (Example: Stutsman County)
| Household Size | Very Low Income (50% AMI) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $38,800 |
| 2 | $44,300 |
| 3 | $49,900 |
| 4 | $55,400 |
| 5 | $59,850 |
| 6 | $64,300 |
| 7 | $68,700 |
| 8 | $73,150 |
Note: Income limits vary by county. Check with your local PHA or visit the HUD Income Limits page for your specific area.
Your gross household income includes wages, Social Security benefits, child support, pensions, and other sources. Certain deductions for dependents, medical expenses, and childcare may apply when calculating your adjusted income.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Section 8 in North Dakota
Step 1: Find Your Local Public Housing Authority
Section 8 in North Dakota is not managed by one central office. You must apply through the PHA that serves your county or city. Here are the major PHAs in North Dakota:
- Fargo Housing and Redevelopment Authority (serves Fargo/Cass County): (701) 293-6262
- Grand Forks Housing Authority (serves Grand Forks County): (701) 746-2545
- Bismarck/Burleigh County Housing Authority: (701) 255-2540
- Great Plains Housing Authority (serves Jamestown and surrounding rural counties including Stutsman, Logan, Foster, and Wells): (701) 252-1098
- Minot Housing Authority (serves Minot/Ward County): (701) 852-0877
- North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (statewide, administers some rural vouchers): (701) 328-8080
You can find a complete list of North Dakota PHAs on the HUD website.
Step 2: Check If the Waiting List Is Open
Section 8 waiting lists are not always open. Due to high demand, many PHAs only accept applications during specific periods. Before you apply, contact your local PHA to find out whether the waiting list is currently accepting new applications. Some PHAs maintain online portals where you can check the status.
As of early 2025, waiting list availability varies across the state. Some rural county housing authorities may have shorter wait times compared to larger cities like Fargo or Bismarck.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
When the waiting list is open, you can submit your application. Depending on the PHA, you may be able to apply:
- Online through the PHA's website or portal
- In person at the PHA office
- By mail using a paper application
The application will ask for information about your household, including names, dates of birth, Social Security numbers, income sources, and current housing situation.
Step 4: Gather Required Documents
Be ready to provide the following documentation:
- Government-issued photo ID for all adult household members
- Social Security cards for all household members
- Birth certificates for children
- Proof of income (pay stubs, Social Security award letters, tax returns)
- Bank statements
- Proof of citizenship or eligible immigration status
- Current lease or landlord contact information
- Documentation of any disabilities (if claiming a preference)
- Veteran status documentation (DD-214, if applicable)
Step 5: Wait for Your Name to Be Called
After submitting your application, you will be placed on the waiting list. Wait times in North Dakota vary by location:
- Large cities (Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks): Wait times may range from several months to two or more years.
- Rural areas: Wait times are often shorter, sometimes just a few months.
Keep your contact information up to date with the PHA. If they cannot reach you when your name comes up, you may lose your place on the list.
Step 6: Attend a Briefing and Complete Verification
When your name reaches the top of the list, the PHA will contact you for an eligibility interview. During this process:
- Your income, assets, and household composition will be verified.
- A criminal background check will be conducted.
- You will attend a voucher briefing session explaining how the program works, your rights, and your responsibilities.
Step 7: Find a Qualifying Rental Unit
Once approved, you will receive a voucher and a set amount of time (typically 60 to 120 days) to find a rental unit that:
- Meets HUD Housing Quality Standards (HQS)
- Falls within the PHA's payment standard for your area
- Has a landlord willing to participate in the Section 8 program
The PHA will inspect the unit before you can move in.
Fair Market Rents in North Dakota
Fair Market Rents (FMRs) are set by HUD and determine the maximum amount of rent a Section 8 voucher will cover. FMRs vary by area and unit size. Here are approximate FMRs for selected North Dakota areas:
| Unit Size | Bismarck Area | Fargo Area | Grand Forks Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $650 | $630 | $580 |
| 1 Bedroom | $740 | $730 | $660 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $930 | $910 | $850 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $1,290 | $1,260 | $1,170 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $1,460 | $1,430 | $1,330 |
Note: These are approximate figures. FMRs are updated annually by HUD. Check HUD's FMR page for current figures in your specific area.
Tips for a Successful Section 8 Application
- Apply to multiple PHAs. You can submit applications to more than one housing authority in North Dakota to improve your chances.
- Respond promptly. When the PHA contacts you, respond quickly. Missed deadlines can result in removal from the waiting list.
- Keep documents organized. Having all paperwork ready speeds up the verification process.
- Update your information. If your address, phone number, income, or household size changes, notify the PHA immediately.
- Check for preferences. Ask your local PHA if you qualify for any waiting list preferences (veterans, elderly, disabled, homeless).
- Consider rural areas. If you are flexible on location, applying in rural North Dakota counties may mean shorter wait times.
Other Housing Assistance Programs in North Dakota
If Section 8 wait times are long or the waiting list is closed, consider these alternative housing assistance options:
- Public Housing: Some North Dakota PHAs operate public housing units with below-market rents.
- LIHEAP: The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program helps with heating costs. Income limits are set at 60% of State Median Income. Apply at hhs.nd.gov/applyforhelp/liheap.
- USDA Rural Development: Offers rental assistance and home loans for rural North Dakota residents. Visit rd.usda.gov.
- Emergency Rental Assistance: Local community action agencies may offer short-term rental help.
- North Dakota Housing Finance Agency: Offers homebuyer programs and rental assistance. Visit ndhfa.org.
Use our benefits screener to check your eligibility for all of these programs at once.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Section 8 waiting list in North Dakota?
Wait times vary by location. In larger cities like Fargo or Bismarck, you may wait one to three years. In rural areas, wait times can be significantly shorter, sometimes just a few months. Contact your local PHA for the most current estimate.
Can I apply for Section 8 online in North Dakota?
Some North Dakota PHAs accept online applications. Check with your local housing authority to see if they offer an online portal. Others may require in-person or mailed applications.
What happens if I am denied Section 8?
If your application is denied, the PHA must provide a written explanation. You have the right to request an informal hearing to appeal the decision. Common reasons for denial include exceeding income limits, criminal history, or incomplete applications.
Can I transfer my Section 8 voucher to North Dakota from another state?
Yes. Through the "portability" feature of the Housing Choice Voucher Program, you can transfer your voucher to North Dakota from another state. Contact both your current PHA and the receiving PHA in North Dakota to arrange the transfer.
How much rent will I pay with a Section 8 voucher?
Generally, you will pay about 30% of your adjusted monthly income toward rent. The voucher covers the remaining amount, up to the local payment standard. If you choose a unit with rent above the payment standard, you may pay the difference out of pocket.
Can I use my Section 8 voucher anywhere in North Dakota?
You can use your voucher anywhere in North Dakota where a PHA administers the program and a landlord is willing to participate. You can also port your voucher to another state if needed.
Who gets priority on the Section 8 waiting list?
Each PHA sets its own preferences. Common priorities in North Dakota include elderly applicants, people with disabilities, veterans, families with children, and individuals experiencing homelessness. Ask your local PHA about their specific preferences.
Take the Next Step
Applying for Section 8 in North Dakota takes patience, but the rental assistance can make a significant difference for your family. Start by contacting your local PHA to find out if the waiting list is open, and gather your documents so you are ready to apply when the opportunity comes.
Want to see what other benefits you may qualify for? Try our free benefits screener to check your eligibility for housing assistance, food programs, healthcare, and more in just a few minutes.
