What "Section 8" means on an apartment listing

Last updated October 26, 2026

Section 8 is a federal rental assistance program run by HUD. It shows up on listings in two different ways, and the difference changes how you apply.

Two kinds of Section 8

Voucher. A local housing agency gives the voucher to you. You then look for a landlord who accepts it. The voucher goes with you if you move.

Project-based. The assistance is attached to the apartment, not to you. You apply to the property itself. If you leave, the assistance stays with the unit.

When a property page says it accepts Section 8, ask the office which kind it means.

On our listings

This site lists 16 properties. Ten carry the Section 8 tag and nine carry the Housing Choice Voucher tag. Several of them say on the listing that they welcome voucher holders, including Brookwood Manor in Clare, Oak Park Apartments in Traverse City, White Pine Manor and The Crossings in Addison. Filter by either tag on the apartments page, or compare listed rents across properties. Tags are a starting point, so confirm with the office before you apply.

How rent works

In both kinds, a household generally pays about 30 percent of its adjusted income toward rent. The program covers the rest, up to a limit. The income-based apartments guide explains how that rent is set.

Where to apply

For a voucher, you apply through your local housing agency. Waiting lists can be closed or long.

For a project-based unit, you apply at the property’s office. Each property keeps its own waiting list.

Your rights as a voucher holder

Since April 2, 2025, Michigan law bars landlords who own five or more rental units in the state from refusing a tenant because of a lawful source of income, and a housing voucher counts as one. The Fair Housing Center of Michigan explains the source of income rule. Some cities add their own protections. This is general information, not legal advice.

What to ask the office

  • Does this property accept vouchers, or are its units project-based?
  • Is the waitlist open for the unit size I need?
  • What income limit applies to my household size?
  • What documents should I bring?

The tour checklist lists what to bring and what else to ask.

Questions people ask

What is the difference between voucher and project-based Section 8?
A voucher goes to you through a local housing agency, and you take it to a landlord who accepts it. Project-based assistance is attached to the apartment itself, so you apply to the property and the assistance stays with the unit if you leave.
How much rent do I pay with Section 8?
In both kinds, a household generally pays about 30 percent of its adjusted income toward rent. The program covers the rest, up to a limit. Ask the property office what limit applies to your household size.
Where do I apply for Section 8 housing?
For a voucher, apply through your local housing agency, where waiting lists can be closed or long. For a project-based unit, apply at the property’s office. Each property keeps its own waiting list.

Use the apartments page to filter by town and tag, then send an inquiry to the property you like. Or see all renter guides.