The demand for Section 8 vouchers, a housing assistance program in the US, often exceeds the supply, leading to many applicants being placed on a waiting list with their local Public Housing Authority (PHA). The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) warns applicants of long wait times, which can often exceed one year. The priority for receiving Section 8 vouchers goes to those with the most pressing housing needs, including those who have been involuntarily displaced from their current residence, are homeless or lack permanent housing, or spend over 50% of their annual household income on housing. Local housing agencies have the discretion to amend these preferences.

After applying for a Section 8 voucher, housing assistance is not guaranteed, and the waiting list uses a random lottery that takes local preferences into consideration. Elderly individuals and those with disabilities receive a degree of preference during the lottery, and additional help is available for those who cannot operate a computer or need assistance with the application. If an individual needs housing but is unable to secure a Section 8 voucher, there are additional government and community services available, such as rent assistance and foreclosure prevention programs, as well as shelters and temporary housing.

Overall, Section 8 voucher demand exceeds supply in most parts of the US, and there is no guaranteed way to determine the exact wait time for an applicant. Preferences are given to those with the most pressing housing needs, and a random lottery determines the order of the waiting list. Additional help is available for elderly individuals, those with disabilities, and those who need assistance with the application process.