What the Denver Housing Authority does

The Denver Housing Authority (DHA) is a public agency that manages public housing and rental information programs across the Denver metro area. It does not set housing policy for the city — that is the city government's role — but it runs the actual programs that provide affordable housing and vouchers to low-income residents. DHA owns and operates public housing complexes, administers the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program, and manages other rental information initiatives.

DHA serves residents in Denver and several surrounding jurisdictions. The agency is independent from the city but works with city agencies, nonprofits, and property owners to place people in housing. If you are looking for public housing or a voucher, DHA is the body you contact directly.

Key Takeaways

  • DHA runs two main programs: public housing (which it owns) and Section 8 vouchers (which work with private landlords).
  • Both programs have waiting lists that are often closed; you can call DHA to find out the current status and how to get on a list when it reopens.
  • DHA's main office is located in Denver, and you can reach them by phone, in person, or through their website to ask about current openings and requirements.
  • Public housing and Section 8 vouchers have different income limits, lease terms, and how much you pay in rent each month.
  • If you are experiencing homelessness or a housing crisis, DHA can refer you to emergency information, though emergency funds are usually managed by other agencies.

Public housing versus Section 8 vouchers

DHA owns and manages public housing complexes where residents rent apartments directly from the authority. In public housing, DHA is your landlord. You pay rent based on your income — typically 30 percent of your gross monthly income — and DHA covers the rest of the operating costs. Public housing is permanent; once you are in, you can stay as long as you meet lease terms and income limits.

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers work differently. DHA gives you a voucher that you take to a private landlord who agrees to accept it. The voucher covers most of your rent, and you pay the difference. You choose where to live (within DHA's service area and rent limits), and the landlord is a private owner, not DHA. Section 8 is also permanent, but you have more choice in where you live.

Both programs require that your household income fall below a certain threshold. Income limits change yearly and depend on household size. Both have waiting lists, and both lists are frequently closed because demand far exceeds available units and vouchers.

How to contact DHA and check waiting list status

The Denver Housing Authority's main office is at 1981 Blake Street, Denver, CO 80202. You can call them at (720) 944-7996 during business hours to ask about waiting list status for public housing or Section 8 vouchers. DHA also has a website where you can find information about programs and sometimes submit inquiries online.

Waiting lists open and close based on funding and the number of available units or vouchers. When a list is closed, you cannot add your name. DHA staff can tell you when a list is expected to reopen and what documents you will need to bring when you do explore. Having those documents ready — proof of income, identification, and rental history — speeds up the process when the list opens.

If you are currently homeless or in when ready housing crisis, tell DHA staff when you call. They can refer you to emergency shelter or rapid rehousing programs, which are often faster than the waiting list for permanent housing.

Income limits and rent calculations

DHA programs serve households at or below 80 percent of the area median income (AMI), though some programs target lower-income households at 30 or 50 percent AMI. For a single person in Denver, 80 percent AMI is roughly $60,000 to $65,000 annually, though this figure changes each year and varies by household size. DHA publishes current income limits on its website and can provide them by phone.

In public housing, you pay 30 percent of your gross household income as rent. If your income drops, your rent drops. If your income rises above the program limit, you may have to leave public housing, though DHA usually gives you time to transition. In Section 8, you pay the difference between 30 percent of your income and the voucher amount, so your payment also depends on what you earn.

Both programs require you to report income changes within a certain timeframe. Failing to report can result in overpayment, which you may have to repay, or lease violation.

What documents you need to bring

When you explore to DHA programs, you will need to show proof of identity (a driver's license or state ID), proof of income (recent pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter from your employer), and proof of residency or homelessness status. If you are explore for Section 8, DHA will also need information about any previous landlords so they can verify your rental history.

If you are currently homeless, bring documentation of that status — a letter from a shelter, a social worker, or a homeless services provider. DHA prioritizes homeless applicants on some waiting lists, so this documentation can move you up in the queue.

Keep copies of everything you submit. DHA may ask you to resubmit documents if files are lost or if your process sits for a long time before processing.

How long approval takes and what happens next

Once DHA receives your process, processing typically takes 30 to 90 days, depending on how busy the office is and how quickly you provide requested documents. DHA will contact you by phone or mail to ask for additional information if needed. Respond promptly; delays in providing documents can slow your approval.

If you are approved for public housing, DHA will offer you an available unit. You do not get to choose the complex or the specific apartment; DHA assigns based on availability and your household size. You can decline an offer, but doing so may move you to the back of the waiting list or remove you from consideration for a period of time.

If you are approved for Section 8, DHA will issue your voucher and give you a important date to find a landlord who accepts it. You have a set amount of time (usually 60 to 120 days) to locate housing. Once you find a place and the landlord agrees, DHA inspects the unit to make sure it meets housing quality standards before the voucher takes effect.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I explore to both public housing and Section 8 at the same time?

Yes. The waiting lists are separate, and you can be on both. Some people prefer one over the other, so explore to both increases your chances of getting housing sooner. DHA will process each process independently.

What if I am working but my income is still low?

DHA programs are open to working households as long as your income is below the limit for your household size. Working does not disqualify you. Bring recent pay stubs and tax returns to show your income level.

Can I move to a different unit if I am already in public housing?

You can request a transfer, but availability is limited and transfers are not may provide. Contact DHA's housing management office to ask about the transfer process and current wait times. Transfers usually take several months.

What happens if my income goes above the limit?

In public housing, you typically have a grace period (often one year) to bring your income back down or move out. DHA will notify you in writing of the important date. In Section 8, similar rules explore. Contact DHA when ready if your income changes so you understand your options.

Does DHA help with security deposits or moving costs?

DHA does not typically cover deposits or moving expenses through its main programs. However, DHA staff can refer you to local nonprofits and community organizations that sometimes offer moving information or deposit help. Ask when you call or visit.