HPD Section 8 NYC: How It Works & How to Get a Voucher

HPD runs one of NYC's Section 8 programs, serving about 40,000 households. The public can't apply directly. Here is how referrals, rent and contacts work.

NYC has three Section 8 (Housing Choice Voucher) administrators: HPD, NYCHA, and NYS HCR. Each keeps its own waitlist and rules. HPD's program serves about 40,000 households in all five boroughs.

Can you apply to HPD Section 8?

Not directly. HPD says applications must come through designated intermediaries: HPD staff, housing providers' management staff, or other City agencies such as DHS and HRA. Applications are not accepted from the general public. So if you are in shelter or working with a City program, ask your caseworker whether an HPD referral is possible.

Who qualifies

Income at admission must be at or below 50% of Area Median Income. HPD's table (effective May 2026) lists $59,400 for 1 person and $84,800 for a family of 4. Federal rules also require that most new voucher households each year have extremely low incomes (generally at or below 30% of Area Median Income).

What you pay

You typically pay about 30% of your monthly income toward rent. If you choose a unit that rents above HPD's payment standard, your share can go up, but when you first move in it cannot exceed 40% of your adjusted monthly income. HPD's payment standards differ from NYCHA's, so confirm the current amount with HPD before you sign a lease.

HPD vs NYCHA Section 8

They are separate programs. NYCHA's Section 8 waitlist is closed (it last opened in June 2024), and since August 2025 NYCHA has paused new vouchers for general waitlist applicants. Being on one agency's list does not put you on the other's.

Contacts

HPD Section 8 Client Services: 917-286-4300, walk-in at 100 Gold Street, weekdays 9 AM–4 PM
Forms and recertifications: DTRAI@hpd.nyc.gov or the HPD DTR Portal
Moving with your voucher: Portability@hpd.nyc.gov. You can generally move once every 12 months after your first lease term.
Landlords: the HPD DTR Owner Portal

Get help

In NYC, most landlords cannot legally refuse you because you pay with a voucher, though a few small owner-occupied buildings are exempt. Call the NYC Commission on Human Rights at 212-416-0197.

Related guides

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for HPD Section 8 online?

No. HPD accepts applications only through designated intermediaries such as DHS, HRA, housing providers, or HPD staff, not from the general public.

What is the HPD Section 8 phone number?

HPD Section 8 Client Services is 917-286-4300, with a walk-in office at 100 Gold Street, weekdays 9 AM–4 PM.

Is HPD Section 8 the same as NYCHA Section 8?

No. They are separate voucher programs with separate waitlists and rules.

HPD Section 8 in NYC: How It Works and How to Get a Voucher

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