What the Everett Housing Authority does

The Everett Housing Authority is a public agency that owns and manages rental housing in Everett, Washington. It operates public housing units and administers the Section 8 voucher program, which helps low-income renters pay for housing in the private market. The Authority does not build or finance homes for purchase — it focuses on rental information and the properties it owns directly.

The Authority serves Snohomish County residents who meet income limits. Income thresholds change yearly and depend on household size, so what may have access to last year may not this year. The Authority's main office is located in Everett, and you can reach them by phone or visit in person to ask about current programs and your household's income range.

Key Takeaways

  • The Everett Housing Authority runs two main programs: public housing it owns directly, and Section 8 vouchers that work with private landlords.
  • Both programs require your household income to fall below a set limit, which changes each year based on area median income.
  • Section 8 vouchers typically have a waiting list, and the Authority opens and closes the list depending on how many vouchers are in use.
  • Public housing units are owned by the Authority, while Section 8 lets you choose a rental property and the voucher pays part of the rent.
  • You can contact the Authority directly to learn your household's income limit, whether the waiting list is open, and what documents you need.

Public housing versus Section 8 vouchers

The Everett Housing Authority owns and manages public housing complexes throughout the city. These are apartments and townhomes the Authority owns outright. When you live in public housing, you pay rent directly to the Authority, and the amount is based on your income — typically 30 percent of your gross monthly income. The Authority maintains the buildings, handles repairs, and sets the lease terms.

Section 8 vouchers work differently. The Authority gives you a voucher that covers part of the rent on a property you choose in the private market — a house, apartment, or townhome owned by a private landlord. You find the place, the landlord agrees to accept the voucher, and the Authority pays the landlord directly. You pay the difference between the voucher amount and the actual rent. This gives you more choice in where you live, but the landlord must be willing to participate in the program.

Income limits and who can participate

Both public housing and Section 8 vouchers have income limits. Your household's total gross income must fall below a threshold set by the Authority each year. The limit depends on your household size — a single person has a lower limit than a family of four. The Authority uses the previous year's income to determine whether you meet the limit, so you will need recent tax returns or pay stubs.

Income limits are tied to the area median income for Snohomish County and are adjusted annually. The Authority publishes these limits, and you can ask them directly what the current threshold is for your household size. If your income is close to the limit, it is worth calling to confirm whether you fall within the range, because the numbers shift year to year.

How to contact the Everett Housing Authority

The Everett Housing Authority's main office is in Everett. You can reach them by phone during business hours to ask about current programs, income limits, and whether the waiting list is open. They can also tell you what documents you need to bring if you want to visit in person.

When you call or visit, have your household size and approximate income ready. The staff can tell you whether you likely meet the income limit and what the next step is. If the waiting list is closed, they can tell you when it typically reopens or whether there are other options available to you.

Waiting lists and how long they take

Both public housing and Section 8 vouchers typically have waiting lists. The length of the wait depends on how many people are ahead of you and how many units or vouchers become available. Some waiting lists are years long; others move faster. The Authority opens and closes the waiting list based on demand and funding, so a list that is closed now may reopen later.

When you are on the waiting list, the Authority will contact you when a unit or voucher becomes available. You will need to respond within a set timeframe — usually a few days — or you may lose your place. It is important to keep your contact information current with the Authority so they can reach you.

What documents you will need

To explore for public housing or a Section 8 voucher, you will need to prove your income, identity, and household composition. Typical documents include recent tax returns or pay stubs, a government-issued ID, and proof of residency in Snohomish County. If you receive benefits, you may need documentation from the benefit program.

The Authority may also ask for references, employment history, and information about any criminal history. Policies vary, and some past offenses may disqualify you, while others may not. The best approach is to ask the Authority directly what documents they need and whether any specific issues might affect your standing.

What happens after you are placed in housing

If you are placed in public housing, you sign a lease with the Authority and pay rent based on your income. The Authority handles maintenance and repairs. Your rent will be recalculated each year based on your current income, so if your income changes, your rent may change too.

If you receive a Section 8 voucher, you have a set amount of time to find a rental property. The landlord must agree to accept the voucher, and the property must pass an inspection by the Authority to may support it meets housing quality standards. Once you move in, you pay your share of the rent and the Authority pays the landlord. Your voucher is recertified annually, and you must report any income changes to the Authority.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a waiting list for public housing in Everett?

Yes, both public housing and Section 8 vouchers typically have waiting lists. The length varies, and the Authority opens and closes the list based on demand. Call the Authority to find out whether the list is currently open and how long the wait typically is.

What is the income limit for a family of four?

Income limits change each year and depend on area median income. Call the Everett Housing Authority directly with your household size, and they will tell you the current limit. Do not rely on numbers from previous years.

Can I own a home and still use a Section 8 voucher?

Section 8 vouchers are for rental housing only, not for homes you own. If you own property, you may not be able to use a voucher. Ask the Authority about your specific situation.

What happens if my income increases while I am in public housing?

Your rent is recalculated each year based on your current income. If your income rises, your rent will likely increase. The Authority will notify you of the new amount before it takes effect.

How do I stay on the waiting list if I move away temporarily?

Contact the Authority before you move and ask about their policy on temporary absences. Some programs allow you to stay on the list if you notify them; others may remove you. It is better to ask in advance than to assume.