Rental Program Details

MaineHousing’s Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program provides rental assistance to income-eligible tenants by subsidizing a portion of their monthly rent and utilities and paying it directly to their landlords. Where utilities are not included in rent, the program may pay a larger portion of the rent so that the tenant is able to cover utility payments.

The assistance provided is the difference between what the tenant pays toward rent (generally 30 - 40% of the household’s adjusted gross income) and the cost of the rent.

This program helps more than 3,800 low-income Maine households each month.

Household income restrictions  apply and vary by location and family size.

When awarding vouchers, MaineHousing gives priority to Maine people who are homeless.

You may be denied a voucher as a result of criminal activity, alcohol abuse, or other reasons. Vouchers may also be denied if you owe money to MaineHousing or another housing authority, unless you have entered into and are complying with a repayment agreement.

A housing choice voucher can be used for any type of private rental housing that meets certain housing quality inspection standards, provided the owner accepts you as a tenant. Landlords retain normal management rights and responsibilities, including tenant selection, collecting the tenant’s share of the rent, property management, and lease termination. Rent must be within the limits allowed  by the program.

If you receive a Housing Choice Voucher from MaineHousing, are able to work, and want to be self-sufficient, you also may be eligible for the Family Self-Sufficiency Program .

You may apply to both MaineHousing's program and local housing authorities  housing choice voucher programs. Because waiting lists can be long, it may be to your advantage to apply to both State and local programs.

To apply for MaineHousing's Housing Choice Voucher Program apply online . To print out an application form visit our online application . 

For more information see the related documents and related links at the top of the page, download the Administrative Plan for Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher , and review the Fair Market Rents , the Payment Standards Schedule , and the Section 8 Income Limits , or contact:

Housing Choice Vouchers Questions/Assistance

(866) 357-4853

(207) 624-5789

 Fax:  (207) 624-5713

HQS Inspections Questions/Assistance

(855) 887-6045

(207) 624-5718

MaineHousing Switchboard

(800) 452-4668

(207) 626-4600

TTY 711 Maine Relay

Please also feel free to contact your MaineHousing Program Officer directly.