Your boyfriend can stay as a guest for a maximum of 14 consecutive days within a specified period (e.g., 30 or 60 days, depending on your local Public Housing Authority's specific policies). If he intends to live with you long-term or permanently, he must be formally added to your household by your Public Housing Authority (PHA).
Understanding Section 8 Guest and Residency Rules
Section 8 guidelines are very clear: only approved individuals can live in your subsidized unit. Allowing unapproved individuals to reside with you long-term without notifying your PHA constitutes a violation of your Section 8 agreement, which can lead to serious consequences, including the loss of your housing assistance.
Guest Stays vs. Permanent Residency
It's crucial to differentiate between someone visiting as a guest and someone moving in as a permanent resident.
| Category | Description | Key Action Required |
|---|---|---|
| Guest Stay | Your boyfriend can stay with you as a guest for short periods, typically not exceeding 14 consecutive days or a total number of days (e.g., 30 days) within a longer period (e.g., 6 months). This is for temporary visits and does not typically require prior notification to the PHA, unless specified otherwise. | No formal action needed for short, temporary visits that adhere to the guest policy limits. |
| Permanent Resident | If your boyfriend intends to move in and live with you permanently, he transitions from being a guest to a prospective household member. There is no time limit once he is formally approved by your PHA. | Immediate notification to your PHA is required. You must inform them of your boyfriend's intention to move in. He will need to undergo standard screening procedures, including background checks, and his income will be factored into your household's total income, which will likely adjust your portion of the rent. Your PHA will then determine if he can be officially added to your household composition. |
Steps to Add Your Boyfriend as a Household Member
If your boyfriend plans to live with you, you must follow the correct procedures to avoid jeopardizing your Section 8 benefits.
- Notify Your PHA Immediately: As soon as you decide he will move in, contact your Public Housing Authority or the landlord managing your Section 8 unit. Inform them of your intent to add a new household member.
- Submit Required Documentation: Your boyfriend will likely need to provide personal identification, social security number, and income verification (e.g., pay stubs, employment verification letters, benefit statements).
- Undergo Screening Process: He will typically undergo a background check, including criminal history and potentially credit checks, to ensure he meets the PHA's eligibility criteria for residents.
- Income Recertification: Your household's income will be recalculated to include his earnings. This may result in an increase in your monthly rent portion, as Section 8 housing assistance is based on household size and total income.
- Lease Addendum: Once approved, your PHA will typically require you and your boyfriend to sign a new lease agreement or an addendum to your current lease, officially adding him as an authorized occupant.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failing to report a new household member or allowing a guest to stay beyond the allowed period without proper authorization is a serious violation. Such actions can lead to:
- Eviction: Your PHA or landlord can terminate your housing assistance and pursue eviction.
- Loss of Section 8 Voucher: You could lose your Section 8 voucher permanently, making it difficult to find affordable housing in the future.
- Repayment of Overpaid Subsidies: If his income was not reported, leading to a lower rent share for you, you may be required to repay the PHA for the difference in rent assistance.
It is always best to be transparent and communicate promptly with your Public Housing Authority regarding any changes in your household composition. For precise details regarding guest policies and adding household members, always consult your specific Public Housing Authority (PHA) directly.
