How to Apply for Section 8 in Broward County
The Section 8 program helps families pay for a safe place to live. The government helps pay part of the rent each month so families can live in good homes.
In Broward County, the main group that helps people with Section 8 is the Housing Authority of the City of Fort Lauderdale, called HACFL for short.
What is HACFL?
HACFL is the Housing Authority of the City of Fort Lauderdale. They help families by giving them special vouchers that pay for part of their rent.
HACFL Contact Information:
📍 Address: 500 W Sunrise Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311
📞 Phone: (954) 556-4100
🌐 Website: www.hacfl.com
Who Can Get Help?
To get help, you need to:
- Have a low income that follows the rules for Broward County.
- Be a U.S. citizen or have legal immigration papers.
- Not have certain serious crimes on your record.
- Be a family — this can be one person or more.
What Papers Should You Have?
Before you apply, get these ready:
- Photo ID cards for all adults.
- Social Security cards for everyone.
- Birth certificates for children.
- Papers that show how much money you make (like pay stubs, Social Security checks, child support).
- Bank statements or papers that show what money you have saved.
- Your old landlord’s name and address if you rented before.
How to Apply
Watch for the Waiting List
The waiting list for Section 8 is not always open. They only open it when they have space for more people.
✅ Check the HACFL website www.hacfl.com often.
✅ Look for news in local newspapers, or flyers at libraries and community centers.
Fill Out the Application
When the waiting list opens:
✅ Go online to the HACFL website.
✅ Fill out the form with your name, address, family size, income, and contact information.
✅ Only send one application for your family — if you send more than one, you can get removed from the list.
Wait for the Lottery
HACFL uses a lottery system. This means they pick names randomly, like pulling names from a hat.
✅ If your name is picked, they will send you a letter or an email with instructions.
✅ Always keep your phone number and address up to date so you don’t miss your chance.
Meet With HACFL
If you get picked:
✅ Bring all your papers with you — IDs, Social Security cards, proof of income, and bank information.
✅ You will meet with a HACFL caseworker who will check your information.
Get Your Voucher
If everything is correct and you qualify:
✅ HACFL will give you a Section 8 voucher.
✅ This voucher shows how much money they will pay to help you with rent each month.
After You Get Your Voucher
✅ You have up to 60 days to find a house or apartment that accepts Section 8 vouchers.
✅ The home must pass a safety check called HQS (Housing Quality Standards).
✅ This means the house must be clean, safe, and have things like working plumbing, working locks, no bugs or rats, and smoke alarms.
Need Help?
If you have questions:
📞 Call HACFL at (954) 556-4100
🌐 Visit www.hacfl.com
📞 TTY (for hearing problems): (954) 523-8890
Helpful Tips for Families
✅ Keep copies of all your important papers.
✅ Make sure your phone number and address are correct.
✅ Check your mail and email often.
✅ If you don’t understand something, ask someone you trust, like a friend, family member, or caseworker.
Summary
Section 8 helps families pay rent for safe homes. You must follow the income rules and apply when the waiting list is open. If your name is picked, you will meet with the housing authority, show your papers, and get a voucher to help pay for your rent. Then you must find a good home that passes a safety check.
