What the Klamath Housing Authority does

The Klamath Housing Authority (KHA) is a public agency that runs public housing and rental information programs in Klamath County, Oregon. It owns and manages apartment complexes for low-income residents, administers the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program, and handles other federal housing programs in the county. If you live in Klamath County and need affordable housing or rental help, KHA is the local body that determines what programs exist and how to reach them.

KHA is not a landlord you call to rent an apartment — it is the government agency that decides who gets into public housing units and who receives vouchers to use with private landlords. The agency answers to a board of commissioners and follows federal rules set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Key Takeaways

  • The Klamath Housing Authority runs public housing units and Section 8 vouchers in Klamath County, Oregon.
  • To learn about programs you may be able to use, you must contact KHA directly — waiting lists, income limits, and program status change throughout the year.
  • Public housing and Section 8 vouchers both require proof of income, citizenship or legal residency, and a background check.
  • KHA's office is located in Klamath Falls, and you can reach them by phone or in person to ask about current openings and next steps.

Public housing units managed by KHA

KHA owns and operates apartment buildings throughout Klamath County where residents pay rent based on their income — typically 30 percent of gross monthly income. These are not temporary shelters; they are permanent housing for people who meet income and other requirements. The number of units available and the length of the waiting list vary, and both change as people move in and out.

To learn whether public housing units are available and whether you meet the income limits for your household size, you need to contact KHA directly. Income limits are set by HUD and change each year. KHA staff can tell you the current limits, explain the process process, and let you know how long the waiting list is.

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers

A Section 8 voucher is a federal rental subsidy that lets you rent from a private landlord while the government pays part of your rent. You find your own apartment, the landlord agrees to accept the voucher, and KHA pays the landlord directly. You pay the difference between your income-based share and the actual rent — usually 30 percent of your income.

The Section 8 waiting list in Klamath County is often closed because demand exceeds available vouchers. When it opens, KHA accepts applications for a limited time, then closes the list again. You can contact KHA to find out whether the list is currently open and, if it is closed, when it might reopen.

Income limits and household requirements

Both public housing and Section 8 vouchers have income limits based on your household size and the area median income for Klamath County. A household of one may have a different limit than a household of four. KHA uses these limits to determine who can enter the programs.

You will also need to provide proof of citizenship or legal residency, pass a background check, and show that you can pay rent on time. KHA will ask for documents like a lease, pay stubs, and identification. The exact documents required depend on which program you are looking into, so ask KHA what to bring when you contact them.

How to contact the Klamath Housing Authority

The Klamath Housing Authority office is located in Klamath Falls. You can reach them by phone to ask about current programs, waiting list status, and what documents you need. You can also visit in person to submit an process or ask questions face-to-face.

When you call or visit, have your household size, income information, and any questions about specific programs ready. KHA staff can tell you which programs have openings, what the waiting list looks like, and what the next step is if you want to move forward.

Other programs and services

Beyond public housing and Section 8 vouchers, KHA may administer other federal housing programs that change based on funding and local need. These can include emergency rental information, supportive housing programs, or other initiatives. The programs available in Klamath County shift from year to year.

When you contact KHA, ask what programs are currently running and whether you might be able to use any of them. Staff can explain the differences and point you toward the right program for your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a Section 8 voucher?

Wait times depend on how many people are on the list and how many vouchers become available. In some years the wait is several months; in others it can be years. Contact KHA to find out the current wait time for Klamath County.

What if my income is too high for public housing?

Income limits vary by program. If you do not meet the limit for public housing, you may still be able to use a Section 8 voucher, which sometimes has higher income limits. KHA can tell you which programs you might be able to use based on your household income.

Can I explore if I have an eviction on my record?

KHA looks at your background history, including evictions, but does not automatically reject you. Each case is reviewed individually. Contact KHA to discuss your situation and find out whether you can move forward with an process.

Do I have to live in Klamath County to use KHA programs?

Yes. KHA serves Klamath County residents. You must live in the county or be moving there to use public housing or Section 8 vouchers through KHA. If you live outside the county, contact the housing authority in your area.

What happens if I lose my job while I have a voucher?

Your rent share is based on your current income, so if your income drops, your share should drop too. Contact KHA to report the change and ask them to recalculate your rent. You will likely need to provide proof of your new income.