How to Not get Scammed With Your Section 8

The housing market is tough enough without scammers trying to make it worse. Unfortunately, people using Section 8 vouchers are often targets for fraud. Whether it’s fake listings or requests for personal information, these scams can cause serious financial harm. 

This article highlights the main scams aimed at voucher holders and offers advice on how to avoid falling into these traps.

Common Section 8 Scams

Scammers use several tactics to trick people into giving up their money or personal information. Here are the most common scams that target Section 8 recipients:

1. Fake Rental Listings

One of the most common scams involves fake rental listings. Scammers post ads for properties that don’t exist or that they don’t have the right to rent. They may list these properties on popular sites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, or even more legitimate platforms like Zillow. These listings often seem like great deals, with lower-than-market rents or additional perks like utilities included.

Once you contact the scammer, they may ask for money upfront to “hold” the property or cover application fees. After receiving the payment, they disappear, and you’re left without housing and out of money.

How to Avoid It:

• Never send money or provide personal information before seeing the property in person.
• Be cautious of listings that seem too good to be true or have very low rent compared to similar properties.
• Verify the landlord’s identity and make sure they have the legal right to rent the property. You can often do this by checking property records or asking for proof of ownership.

2. Application Fee Scams

Scammers know that finding affordable housing is hard, and some take advantage by charging fake application fees. They’ll ask for money to “process” your Section 8 application or to apply for a property that isn’t really available. In some cases, they might ask for several fees, like background check fees, security deposits, or even voucher processing fees.

Once they collect the fees, they vanish, and you realize there was no real application process.

How to Avoid It:

• Only pay fees directly to your local housing authority or verified landlords. Section 8 does not charge fees for voucher applications, and any required fees should come through official channels.
• Be suspicious of landlords or property managers asking for multiple or high application fees.
• Always verify that the property you’re applying for is legitimate before sending any money.

3. Personal Information Scams

Some scammers are after your personal information rather than your money. These scammers may pose as Section 8 officials or landlords and ask for sensitive information like your Social Security number, banking details, or even Section 8 account numbers. With this information, they can steal your identity, gain access to your benefits, or use your details for fraudulent purposes.

How to Avoid It:

• Never share your Social Security number or banking information with someone you don’t know or trust.
• Housing authorities will not ask for your personal details through email or over the phone unless you initiate contact. If you receive a suspicious request, hang up and call your housing authority directly to verify.
• Be wary of unsolicited requests for personal information, especially if they claim it’s for “updating your file” or “processing your voucher.”

4. Fake Landlords

Another common scam is when someone pretends to be the landlord of a property. They may even have access to the property and can show it to you, but they don’t actually own it or have the right to rent it out. These scammers will ask for a deposit, first month’s rent, or personal information, but once they receive it, they disappear.

How to Avoid It:

• Always verify that the person you’re dealing with is the true owner or authorized property manager. You can do this by contacting local property records or verifying their details with the housing authority.
• Avoid dealing with people who refuse to show identification or provide proof that they own or manage the property.

5. Scams Targeting the Section 8 Waitlist

Getting on the Section 8 waitlist can take a long time, and scammers often try to take advantage of this. They may claim that, for a fee, they can get you moved up the list or guarantee you’ll get a voucher faster. In reality, no one can speed up the process or guarantee your place on the waitlist. Paying these scammers only costs you money and leaves you stuck in the same position on the waitlist.

How to Avoid It:

• The only way to get a Section 8 voucher is to apply through your local housing authority and follow their process. There are no shortcuts.
• Be cautious of anyone offering to move you up the waitlist or give you special treatment in exchange for money.
• If someone claims they can help you get a voucher faster, report them to your housing authority immediately.

6. Fraudulent Moving or Section 8 Assistance Services

Some scammers pose as companies offering moving assistance or services designed to help you “navigate” the Section 8 program. These fake companies might charge you upfront for services they never deliver, such as moving your belongings or helping you find a rental that accepts Section 8 vouchers. Once you pay, they disappear.

How to Avoid It:

• Only work with reputable, licensed moving companies and housing assistance services.
• Research any company or individual offering help before providing any payment or personal information. Look for reviews or ask for references.
• Check with your housing authority or local nonprofit housing organizations for legitimate services.

Tips for Protecting Yourself From Scams

Now that you know the common scams targeting Section 8 recipients, here are some general tips to help protect yourself:

1. Verify Everything

Always verify the identity of the person or company you’re dealing with. This applies to landlords, property managers, and anyone claiming to be a housing authority representative. Scammers can create convincing fake websites, documents, and email addresses, so it’s important to double-check:

• Call your local housing authority to verify any communication you receive.
• Research landlords and properties using trusted sources, such as online reviews or property records.

2. Don’t Pay for Something That Should Be Free

You should never have to pay for help with the Section 8 application process, getting on the waitlist, or receiving your voucher. If someone asks for payment to speed up your application, get you a voucher, or provide housing, it’s likely a scam.

3. Use Official Housing Authority Websites

Always use the official website of your local housing authority when applying for Section 8 or looking for updates on your status. Be cautious of fake websites or look-alikes that try to steal your personal information. Official government websites usually end in “.gov,” and it’s a good idea to bookmark them to avoid landing on a fake site.

4. Don’t Rush Into Decisions

Scammers often pressure their targets into making quick decisions, such as paying a deposit or fee right away to secure housing. This is a red flag. Take your time to research the situation, verify the details, and consult with your housing authority if you have any doubts.

5. Keep Personal Information Safe

Your personal information, including your Social Security number, bank account details, and Section 8 account numbers, should only be shared with trusted individuals or official agencies. Don’t provide this information over the phone or email unless you’re sure the request is legitimate.

6. Report Suspicious Activity

If you encounter a potential scam, report it to your housing authority immediately. Most housing authorities have a process for dealing with fraud and can take action to prevent the scam from spreading. Reporting suspicious activity not only protects you but also helps others avoid falling victim to the same scheme.

Conclusion

Scammers often target vulnerable populations, and Section 8 voucher holders are no exception. Being aware of the common scams and knowing how to protect yourself is key to keeping your benefits safe. Always verify the information and people you’re dealing with, avoid paying unnecessary fees, and keep your personal information secure. If something doesn’t seem right, trust your instincts and reach out to your housing authority for help. By staying informed and cautious, you can avoid falling victim to these scams and keep your Section 8 benefits secure.