Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program

The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program, also known as Section 8, is a federally funded rental assistance program that helps eligible low-income individuals and families afford quality housing in the private market. This program is administered locally by the Michigan City Housing Authority (MCHA).

How the Program Works

Participants in the HCV program typically pay 30% of their adjusted monthly income toward rent and utilities. MCHA pays the remainder directly to the landlord on the tenant’s behalf. This program allows families to live in safe, decent housing while maintaining flexibility in choosing where they live within Michigan City or a qualifying area. Through the HCV program, participants are free to choose their own housing, including single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments, provided the property meets program requirements and passes inspection.

NOTE: MCHA issues vouchers based on funding availability and waiting list status. All applicants must meet eligibility criteria and complete the application process.

Voucher Portability: How Transfers Work

Portability allows eligible Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) participants to transfer their rental assistance to another city or state. If you have a voucher with the Michigan City Housing Authority (MCHA), you may request to “port out” to a different housing authority. Likewise, if you’re moving to Michigan City with a voucher from another agency, MCHA can help you transfer your assistance here.

To start a portability transfer, contact your housing authority representative and provide the receiving housing authority’s contact information. You must be in good standing with your current lease and program rules.

Happy couple holding a house key with a wooden home-shaped keychain, celebrating new housing opportunity.

For Tenants

If you are a current or prospective voucher holder, MCHA is here to support you throughout your housing journey.

Key Information for Tenants:

  • You must find housing that meets HUD Housing Quality Standards (HQS).

  • The unit must pass inspection before subsidy payments begin.

  • You are responsible for reporting household income or composition changes.

  • Annual recertification is required to maintain eligibility.

For Landlords

The Michigan City Housing Authority (MCHA) partners with local property owners to provide safe, affordable housing to eligible families through the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program. By leasing your property to a voucher holder, you help strengthen our community while gaining reliable rental income backed by federal assistance.

Participating is similar to traditional leasing, just with a few additional steps. MCHA supports landlords every step of the way, from inspections and paperwork to monthly payments.

1

Advertise Your Property

List your rental unit just as you normally would. You may screen potential tenants using your standard background, credit, or rental history checks. Make sure the tenant has a valid HCV voucher before proceeding.

2

Complete the Request for Tenancy Approval

Once you’ve chosen an eligible tenant, both parties must complete the RFTA packet. The tenant will provide all necessary forms. Proof of paid property taxes and active utility accounts must be submitted at this time.

3

Prepare for an Inspection

After receiving the RFTA, MCHA will schedule an inspection to ensure the unit meets HUD Housing Quality Standards. Inspections typically occur within 15 days. If issues are found, time is allowed for corrections.

4

Sign the Lease and HAP Contract

After the unit passes inspection, MCHA will prepare the lease and Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) contract. You may sign electronically or in person. The initial lease term is typically 12 months, then moves to a month-to-month basis.

5

Receive Reliable Monthly Payments

MCHA will begin issuing rental payments directly to you after all paperwork is signed. Payments are made on the 1st or 16th of each month and typically within the first 10 days.

Interested in Becoming a Landlord?

Have questions about renting your property through the Housing Choice Voucher Program? Contact the Michigan City Housing Authority today to learn how you can partner with us and support affordable housing in our community.

Administrative Plan

The MCHA Administrative Plan outlines the policies and procedures used to manage the Housing Choice Voucher Program in accordance with HUD regulations. It includes guidelines on eligibility, application processing, rent calculations, inspections, and ongoing program compliance.

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2026 Housing Choice Voucher Payment Standards

Payment Standards represent the maximum amount that can be paid towards the gross rent (rent and utilities) based on the eligible voucher size. The Michigan City Housing Authority’s Payment Standards are set at 120% of HUD’s Fair Market Rents (FMRs).

Voucher Size FMRs Payment Standards
0 874 1049
1 953 1144
2 1152 1382
3 1454 1745
4 1680 2016
5   2318
6   2666

The above payment standards are to be used for new transfers and admissions effective December 1, 2025, and re-certifications effective January 1, 2026. Payment Standards are not to be adjusted for interim rent changes.

The payment standards (PS) for units with more than 4 bedrooms are calculated by adding an additional 15% to the PS for units with 4 bedrooms, and so on. For example, the PS for a 5 BR unit is 1.15 times the 4 BR PS, and the 6 BR PS is 1.30 times the 4 BR PS.

Ready to Begin Your Michigan City Housing Journey?

Discover safe and affordable housing options designed to meet your needs. Whether you are looking for public housing, a Housing Choice Voucher, or market rate housing, we make the process simple and accessible. Take the first step toward securing your future by applying today and start building a stable foundation for you and your family.