Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher

FAQ's

Q.   How do I apply or rent assistance?

A.   Applications may be downloaded or taken M– F between 8 AM - 4:30 PM in the housing office, located in the lower level of city hall.  Completed applications may be turned in the office or mailed to: Oskaloosa Municipal Housing Agency, 220 South Market Oskaloosa, IA 52577. Faxed or e-mailed applications will  not be accepted. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.

Q.   Who is Eligible?

• Lawful citizens of the United States or non-citizens who have eligible immigration status
• Persons with disabilities and/or elderly.

• Individual and/or family with a total gross annual income of not more than 50% of the Mahaska County HUD Limits:

Household Size / Income Limit

  1   $19,950

  2   $22,800

  3   $25,650

  4   $28,500

  5   $30,800

  6   $33,100

  7   $35,350

Q.   What information do I need to bring when I apply for rent assistance.

A.   We will need the social security number of the head of household and full legal name.

Q.   Can I apply over the phone or internet?

A.   Applications may be downloaded and mailed to Oskaloosa Municipal Housing Agency, 220 South Market, Oskaloosa,Iowa 52577. Faxed/e-mailed applications will not be accepted. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.

Q.   How do I get an application mailed to me?

A.   Applications are not mailed but may be downloaded and mailed to: Oskaloosa Municipal Housing Agency, 220 South Market, Oskaloosa, IA 52577. Faxed/e-mailed applications will not be accepted. Incomplete applications will not be accepted.

Q.   How much of my rent will you pay?

A.   Tenants are expected to pay 30% - 40% of their adjusted gross income.

Q.   What information do you need for me to apply?

A.   We need the full legal name, birth date, Social Security number of each member of the household and the household income.

Q.   Will you pay my rent in Beacon or University Park ?

A.   No. The OMHA jurisdiction is the Oskaloosa city limits.

Q.   When will I receive help with my rent?

A.   Everyone is taken on a first come basis, eligibility is determined when your name reaches the top of the waiting list.

Q.   Will you find my house/apartment for me?

A.   No. Each tenant is responsible for locating his/her own unit. We can provide a list of landlords who accept rent assistance or you can check the want ads in the Oskaloosa Herald.

Q .   Does Oskaloosa have Public Housing?

A.   No. The OMHA administers Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program with rent assistance paid to privately owned houses and apartments within the city limits of Oskaloosa.

Q.   What if I want to move?

A.   After being leased up for 12 months, and after providing a full calendar month written notice to both the landlord and the OMHA, tenants may move with continued assistance.

Q.   I applied for rent assistance several months ago and haven't heard anything. Why?

A.   Has your mailing address changed? If so, did you notify us of the new address? Please call us at 641-673-8362 to update your mailing address.

Q.   Can I get assistance if I have been arrested?

A.   Applicants will be denied assistance based on the severity of the conviction:

Applicants will be denied for:

a serious or aggravated misdemeanor conviction within the past three (3) years,

a felony conviction within the past five (5) years, or

if on the sex offender registry.

Q.   Will you pay my deposit?

A.   No. Tenants are responsible for the deposit and any utilities not paid by the landlord.

Q.   If I find a place to live will I get help any faster?

A.   No. You still have to wait for your name to make it to the top of the waiting list.

Q.   How long will I have to wait for help?

A.   The average wait is about 6-9 months but can be longer at times.

Q.   Why do I have to wait for help?