Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access my pre-application online?

The Massachusetts Centralized Section 8 Waiting List is now powered by AffordableHousing.com. Please sign in to your GoSection8 account or create an account if you do not already have one.

 

Why don't I get my 'number' on the waiting list?

This is one waiting list that is sorted differently by each participating housing authority. Many housing authorities have a set of preferences to rank applicants; these preferences are based on the needs in the community. On the other hand, some housing authorities sort the list only by date and time of application. Because the list is sorted differently by each participating housing authority, your “number on the list” is different at each housing authority. Instead of providing you with a number, it is more realistic for a housing authority to confirm that you are active on the list and possibly give you an estimate of the wait time based on its average agency turnover. It is important to keep your information current with the housing authority and you will be notified by mail when you reach the top of the list.

Once I am selected by a housing authority and receive a voucher, do I have to use my voucher in that housing authority’s town?

No. If you receive a voucher in Massachusetts you can use it anywhere.

How often is the waiting list updated?

The Massachusetts Centralized Waiting List is updated and purged annually in order to keep applicant information current and to remove applicants who are no longer interested. You will receive an update mailing if you have not updated your application within two years. The 2022 Update Letter was sent in November 2022. The deadline to respond to the 2022 Update was December 12, 2022. Applicants were given 120 days to respond; those that did not respond by April 18, 2023 have been removed. For more information about the update go to: Waiting List Update.

 

Any other questions?

Please contact a participating housing authority or call 866-466-7328. More Frequently Asked Questions can be found at AffordableHousing.com.