Frequently Asked Questions
WHY DO I NEED TO APPLY AND ACCESS MY APPLICATION ON AFFORDABLEHOUSING.COM?
The twenty (20) housing authorities that participate on the Maine Centralized Section 8/HCV Waiting List have partnered with AffordableHousing.com to manage the waiting list. Starting March 1, 2022, applicants can apply to the waiting list using the new website, www.affordablehousing.com/maineCWL. If you have an existing application, you cannot use the same username and password you previously used. You must create an account on AffordableHousing.com and can then access your existing application by clicking on “Update Application”. For technical support setting up an account or using the waiting list software, please contact AffordableHousing.com at 866-466-7328.
Please note: AffordableHousing.com is based in Boca Raton, Florida and you may send you mail, emails, or text messages asking you to update your application.
HOW DO I KNOW IF MY FAMILY (IF ANY) AND I ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE HCV PROGRAM?
Eligibility is not determined until you are chosen from the wait list. You must be eligible based on income, preference indicated, and other background information at that time. Read more about eligibility here.
HOW DO I APPLY FOR THE VOUCHER WAIT LIST?
See How To Apply. You only have to apply once. There are a variety of ways to do so. You can choose whatever method you wish. If you need assistance or an accommodation because of a disability or limited English proficiency, you can request it from any one of the participating housing authorities.
WHAT IF I MOVE AFTER APPLYING OR CHANGE MY PHONE NUMBER OR SOME OTHER INFORMATION ON THE APPLICATION?
It is your responsibility to maintain the correct contact information on your application. You may make changes to your application information on-line or complete a Change of Information form and return it to a participating housing authority. If you cannot be reached at the address you provide, you will be withdrawn from the wait list and will need to reapply. See Update Your Information.
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN MY NAME COMES TO THE TOP OF THE LIST?
The participating housing authorities will choose applicants from the wait list who meet the preferences qualifications for the vouchers they have to offer. Some housing authorities have local preferences based on where applicants live or work. Some vouchers may be for Veterans or persons with disabilities. Some may be chosen simply by date and time of the application. If a housing authority chooses you from the wait list they will likely send you a letter inviting you (and your family) to complete a formal application.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER MY APPLICATION IS CHOSEN FROM THE WAITING LIST?
You will be required to provide information and documents about you (and other family member information), “prove” who you are (citizenship, legal residency status), where you live, what money you receive or earn, etc. You will be sent an appointment letter inviting you to come to the housing authority. It is VERY important that you keep your mailing address current. See Update Your Information.
WHAT IF I DON’T GET A VOUCHER AFTER I HAVE BEEN CHOSEN FROM THE WAITING LIST?
It depends on the reason for your denial. If you or a family member does not qualify under a background check by any housing authority that chooses you, your application will be made inactive and removed from the waiting list. If for some reason you do not qualify for a preference at the time you are chosen, your application can be returned to the waiting list without that particular preference indicated.
