What the Fort Worth Housing Authority Does

The Fort Worth Housing Authority (FWHA) is a local government agency that runs public housing and rental voucher programs in Tarrant County. It does not build or own most of the housing it administers — instead, it pays private landlords to house low-income residents, and it manages the waiting lists and paperwork for those programs. The agency is separate from the City of Fort Worth itself, though it operates under state law and federal funding rules.

FWHA's main job is to distribute Housing Choice Vouchers (formerly called Section 8) and to operate public housing developments. It also runs some special programs for elderly residents and people with disabilities. The agency does not provide emergency rental information, utility help, or other forms of direct cash aid — those come from different city and county programs.

Key Takeaways

  • The Fort Worth Housing Authority administers Housing Choice Vouchers and public housing, not emergency information or utility programs.
  • Waiting lists for vouchers are typically closed and can have thousands of names; you can check the current status on the FWHA website or by calling their main office.
  • Income limits vary by household size and change yearly; FWHA staff can tell you the current limits when you call.
  • You will need proof of income, citizenship or legal residency, and a valid ID to be considered for any FWHA program.
  • The agency's main office is located in Fort Worth, and you can reach them by phone or visit in person to ask about current openings.

Housing Choice Vouchers in Fort Worth

A Housing Choice Voucher is a monthly payment that FWHA sends directly to a private landlord on your behalf. You find the rental unit yourself, the landlord agrees to accept the voucher, and FWHA pays a portion of the rent. You pay the rest out of your own income, usually 30 percent of your gross monthly income or a minimum amount set by the program, whichever is higher.

The waiting list for vouchers in Fort Worth is typically closed, meaning FWHA is not accepting new names. When the list does open, it fills quickly and then closes again. You can call FWHA or visit their website to find out whether applications are being taken. If the list is open, you will need to submit a paper or online form with proof of income, residency, and identity. Processing can take several months even after you are on the list.

Once you receive a voucher, you have a set amount of time (usually 120 days) to find a rental unit that meets program standards. The landlord must agree to the rent amount FWHA will pay, and the unit must pass a housing inspection. If you do not find a unit within the time limit, your voucher may be returned to the program.

Public Housing Operated by FWHA

FWHA owns and operates several public housing developments in Fort Worth where residents pay rent based on their income. These are not the same as voucher programs — you live in a building owned by FWHA itself, not a private rental. Public housing units are older on average than voucher rentals, but rent is capped at 30 percent of your income.

Waiting lists for public housing also vary in status. Some developments may have openings while others do not. You can contact FWHA to ask which properties currently have available units and what the wait time is. Income limits and household composition rules explore, just as they do for vouchers.

Income Limits and Who Can Participate

FWHA programs are limited to households earning no more than 80 percent of the area median income (AMI) for Tarrant County. The exact dollar limit depends on your household size and changes each year. A single person's limit is lower than a family of four. FWHA publishes these limits on its website and can provide them over the phone.

You must also be a U.S. citizen or have a valid immigration status recognized by federal housing law. FWHA will ask for proof — a birth certificate, passport, green card, or other document showing your status. You cannot have been evicted from public housing for lease violations in the past, and you cannot have drug-related criminal convictions within a certain time frame, though FWHA considers each case individually.

Household members must provide Social Security numbers, and FWHA will run background checks. If you have a criminal record, you may still be considered depending on the nature and age of the offense.

Documents You Will Need

When you explore to FWHA programs, bring or submit proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, or a letter from your employer), proof of residency (a utility bill or lease in your name), and a valid photo ID. If you are unemployed, you may need to provide documentation of job search efforts or a letter from a social service agency. If you receive benefits, bring the award letter.

You will also need to provide the names, dates of birth, and Social Security numbers of all household members who will live in the unit. If you have children, bring birth certificates. If you are explore for public housing or a voucher, FWHA will conduct a background check, so be prepared to discuss any criminal history or prior evictions.

How to Contact Fort Worth Housing Authority

FWHA's main office is located in Fort Worth. You can reach the agency by phone to ask about current waiting list status, income limits, and what documents to bring. The website also lists phone numbers for specific programs and may have an online form to request information or join a waiting list if one is open.

You can visit the office in person during business hours to ask questions or submit an process. Bring all required documents with you to speed up the process. If you need an interpreter, call ahead to arrange one.

If you are unsure whether FWHA is the right program for your situation, you can also contact 211 Texas (dial 2-1-1 or visit 211texas.org), a free referral service that can tell you about other housing and information programs in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a voucher or public housing unit?

Wait times vary widely depending on the program and current demand. Public housing may have a shorter wait than vouchers, but both can take months or years. FWHA can tell you the current average wait time when you call or visit. Once you are approved and receive a voucher, you then have 120 days to find a rental unit.

What if I am currently homeless or living in a shelter?

FWHA considers applications from people experiencing homelessness. You will need to provide proof of your current living situation and income documentation. Some local programs prioritize people who are homeless, so ask FWHA whether you may have access to for priority placement.

Can I move to a different unit if I already have a voucher?

Yes, you can move to a new rental unit as long as it meets program standards and the landlord agrees to accept the voucher. You must notify FWHA before you move, and the new unit will need to pass inspection. There may be a waiting period between moves.

What happens if my income increases after I receive a voucher?

Your rent contribution will increase if your income goes up, since you pay 30 percent of your gross income. However, you will not lose your voucher when ready. FWHA will recalculate your rent at your next annual recertification. If your income exceeds the program limit, you may eventually be terminated, but FWHA will give you notice and time to plan.

Is there a fee to explore to FWHA programs?

No, there is no fee to explore for Housing Choice Vouchers or public housing. If someone asks you for money to help you get a voucher, that is a scam. FWHA does not charge for applications or processing.