Millions of Americans who rely on Section 8 housing assistance could soon face major changes. Under the Trump administration’s 2025 budget proposal, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) would see a $26.7 billion reduction in funding for rental assistance programs—a 43% cut from current levels.
Here’s everything you need to know about how these proposed changes could impact you.
What is Section 8 Housing?
Section 8, officially known as the Housing Choice Voucher Program, provides rental assistance to about 2.3 million low-income households nationwide. The program helps eligible families, older people, and people with disabilities afford safe, stable housing by subsidizing a portion of their rent.
Demand for vouchers consistently exceeds supply, leading to long waiting lists in most areas.
What Changes are Proposed for Section 8 in 2025?
The 2025 budget proposal includes several major changes:
$26.7 billion in funding cuts to HUD rental assistance programs, including Section 8.
New time limits: Able-bodied adults without disabilities would be limited to two years of assistance.
Shift to State Control: Federal rental assistance would move to state-administered block grants, allowing states to set their own eligibility rules and benefit levels.
If enacted, these changes would dramatically reshape how housing aid is distributed across the country.
How Would the Cuts Affect Current Section 8 Voucher Holders?
Current voucher holders could face:
Reduced funding for vouchers, leading to lower subsidies or loss of support.
Increased wait times for renewals.
Stricter eligibility reviews at the state level.
Some states may continue to fully support voucher programs, while others could impose tighter restrictions or eliminate benefits for certain groups.
How Would the Cuts Affect New Section 8 Applicants?
For those trying to access Section 8 housing for the first time, the outlook could be even more challenging:
Fewer available vouchers.
Longer or permanently closed waiting lists.
Varying rules depending on the state, creating a fragmented system across the country.
States with smaller housing budgets could limit eligibility to the highest-need applicants only.
Which Groups are Most At Risk?
The proposed changes could disproportionately impact:
Low-income families with children.
Older adults living on fixed incomes.
People with disabilities.
Single adults without dependents who are currently eligible but may lose access under new time limits.
What Happens Next?
The budget proposal must still pass through Congress. Lawmakers are expected to propose amendments, and negotiations over funding levels could take several months.
Housing advocates are urging the public to contact their representatives and raise concerns about the potential impact on vulnerable populations.
What Can You Do If You Rely on Section 8?
If you currently receive Section 8 assistance or are on a waiting list, experts recommend:
Contacting your local housing authority to stay updated on potential changes.
Monitoring HUD announcements and updates from advocacy organizations.
Reaching out to your representatives to voice your opinion about proposed cuts.
Exploring state and local rental assistance programs as backup options.
Helpful Resources
HUD Housing Choice Voucher Program
I agree with the White House. I know so many people on Sec 8, and there is no reason they cant work except because their on drugs. If they have drug money they can make rent money. I dont like that they can be on Section 8 for yearsand years, passing from Mom to daughter to G’chilren.
Its not right for the people who really need & depend on it.
I don’t agree yes my have some but every body situation is not the same some people are working and still struggling to keep up with there bills and what about our seniors on a fixed income who can hardly keep up and the same is true about people who are disabled I think the person who made the comment that they agreed with Congress needs to first do there research before opening their mouths about what they think they know
So carmilitia what was exactly wrong or untrue about her statement ? She said it is not right for those who truly need it. She did not lie about the drug addicts who use it and then section 8 becomes a way of life from mom to daughter to grandchildren. She didn’t say it was EVERYONE! Very little research needs to occur since this problem has been around for years and years and at least Trump tries to address the problem instead of the democrats that just want to keep giving and giving without any restrictions
As a landlord, I think these changes are GOOD! A lot make it a way of life and don’t work. People like me have to work. My hard-earned taxes are taken from me, a single mom, who has worked all her life and given away to those who chose not to! Case in point. I just rented to one that lied and told me she had the lights switched to her name. She didn’t, & S8 is paying 100% of her rent! I got a $300 light bill! When confronted, she said she didn’t have the money to pay it. I asked why she didn’t work like the rest of us, she stated, “I’m not going to risk my & my children’s life by going to work & getting covid?” I told her covid has been over for 3 years & every taxpayer who enables her to get a free ride at their expense is out there working! She is no better than us!
I have another one that all she had to pay was $300 a month & she told me she could pay that! She drives a brand new black mercedes! (I drive a 10-year-old Toyota)