RCHA Housing Assistance

Section 8 Housing Assistance:
Renter Information

Getting Started with Section 8

What is Section 8?

Section 8 helps individuals and families afford safe and decent housing. With a Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher, you can rent a home or apartment from a private landlord. The program covers part of your rent, making housing more affordable.

The Randolph County Housing Authority (RCHA) offers Section 8 vouchers in Randolph, Barbour, Tucker, Lewis, Upshur, and Pendleton counties. This program is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

For questions, call 304-636-6495 ext.110 or TDD 304-637-7604.

Who Can Apply?

You might qualify for Section 8 if:

  • You have low income: Your total income must be below a certain limit. Income limits depend on your county and family size and are set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
Total Household Income
1 Person
$23,800
2 People
$27,200
3 People
$30,600
4 People
$34,000
5 People
$36,750
6 People
$39,450
7 People
$42,200

*This data may change. Income limits are determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and are updated annually. Refer to HUD’s website for the most accurate and current income limits for each county and household size.

  • Proof of financial need: Demonstrating that you spend more than 30% of your income on housing or that you cannot find affordable housing. Other requirements to qualify may include U.S. Citizenship and Eligible Immigration Status. Original documents must be provided.
  • Clean record: You may not qualify for assistance if you have a criminal record or prior evictions.

Does It Cost Anything to Apply for Section 8 Assistance?

No. It does not cost anything to apply for Section 8 assistance.

How Much Can I Get?

A Section 8 voucher helps pay a portion of your rent. The amount it covers is based on:

  • Payment Standards: Limits set by the housing authority for your county and the number of bedrooms you qualify for.
  • Your Income: You’ll typically pay 30% of your adjusted income toward rent, with the voucher covering the rest (up to the payment standard). If you have no income, you can still qualify. The housing authority will calculate how much rent you can afford.

How Long Does It Take to Get Section 8?

It depends. Due to high demand, applications are only accepted during the Open Enrollment periods. You may need to wait several months to a year, depending on availability.

Can I Use Section 8 Outside of the Counties Served by RCHA?

Yes, you can transfer your Section 8 voucher to an area outside of RCHA’s service region (Randolph, Barbour, Tucker, Lewis, Upshur, or Pendleton County) after using it locally for one year.

Here’s what you need to do:

  1. Contact the RCHA Occupancy Specialist
    Notify them of your plans to move. They will guide you through the process and help ensure you retain your voucher.
  2. Provide 30 Days’ Notice
    RCHA requires at least 30 days’ notice of your intent to transfer your voucher. This notice is separate from the notice your landlord may require, so be sure to fulfill both obligations.
  3. Check with the New Housing Authority
    Verify if the housing authority in your new area can absorb your voucher. If not, contact us to see if we can be billed for your voucher instead.

It’s important to confirm these details before giving your 30-day notice. If not, your move might be delayed, or you could be required to stay in the area for an additional 12 months.

What is a Project-Based Housing Assistance Voucher?

Unlike a Section 8 Housing Assistance Voucher, which can be used for any approved unit, a Project-Based Voucher must be used in a particular building. Currently, Project-Based Vouchers are available for buildings available exclusively to seniors and disabled persons in Randolph and Barbour Counties.

While you will need to meet the eligibility requirements for the property and there will need to be an available unit for you to move into. There is currently a waiting list for units in these buildings.

To begin the application process for a Project-Based Voucher, you can pick up an application packet at the RCHA office. There is a $25 fee to apply for a Project-Based Voucher, which covers the cost of a background check. If approved, you will be added to the waiting list. If you receive a Project-Based Voucher, after a year you can apply for a Section 8 Voucher during the Section 8 Open Enrollment period.

Key Info At-A-Glance

Open Enrollment

The Open Enrollment period is currently open. Applications for Section 8 assistance are accepted in person at the RCHA office on Thursdays from 9 a.m. to Noon. If you are age 62 and older or are disabled, you may call the RCHA Office at 304-636-6495 ext. 110 and leave your name and phone number with the reception. You cannot leave a voicemail. Someone will return your call either Thursday afternoon or Friday. All calls must be to the receptionist only.

Contact Information

Angie White
Section 8 Manager
Phone: 304-636-6495 ext. 121
Email: awhite@rchawv.org

Heather Kittle
Occupancy Specialist
Phone: 304-636-6495 ext. 122
Email: hkittle@rchawv.org

Jess Wanless
Occupancy Specialist
Phone: 304-636-6495 ext. 120
Email: jwanless@rchawv.org

Laura Chenoweth
Housing Inspector
Phone: 304-636-6495 ext. 114
Email: lchenoweth@rchawv.org

April Durking
Family Self-Sufficiency Program
Phone: 304-636-6495 ext. 132
Email: adurking@rchawv.org

Office Address

Randolph County Housing Authority
2280 Randolph Avenue
Elkins, WV 26241

Phone: 304-636-6495
Email: rcha@rchawv.org

Office Hours

Monday–Friday: 8 AM – 4 PM

Tips for Success

  • Stay Organized: Keep copies of all documents and forms.
  • Ask Questions: The housing authority is here to help you.
  • Be Patient: It might take time to get approved or find housing, but don’t give up.


The Section 8 Housing Voucher Program is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Need Help? Contact Us

If you have questions about our programs and services, contact RCHA today. Help is available!

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