FAQs
What changes must I report to the Section 8 Department between annual reexaminations?

Increase in Income
  • Families must report all increases in income and assets.
  • Families will be required to report increases of at least $200 in household monthly income.
  • Families are also required to report all household income which comes from a new source.
  • Increased tenant rent is effective on the first of the month, following a 30 day notice.
  • If the family does not report an increase in income and/or fails to schedule an interim reexamination and provide our office with the necessary documents, reimbursement to COC may be required.
Decrease in Income
  • Families may report a decrease in income and other changes which would reduce the amount of tenant rent, such as an increase in allowances or deductions.
  • COC must calculate the change if a decrease in income is reported.
  • Decreased tenant rent is effective the first month, following from when the change is reported.
  • If the family does not report the decrease in income and/or fails to schedule an interim reexamination and provide our office with the necessary documents, the decrease will not be retroactive.
Family Composition Changes
  • Families must report all changes in household composition to COC.
  • This includes additions in household composition due to birth, adoption and court-awarded custody.
  • The family must obtain COC approval prior to all other additions to the household.
  • When removing someone from the lease, the family must provide proof of their new address.
Absence from the Household
  • Household members must notify COC if they are going to be absent from the unit for more than 30 consecutive days.
  • Any member of the household will be considered permanently absent if he/she is away from the unit for 3 consecutive months or 90 calendar days in a 12 month period.
When should I report the changes to the Section 8 Department?
All changes must be reported to COC, in writing, within 10 calendar days of when the change occurs. The family must also schedule an interim reexamination appointment and provide COC with any information, documents, or signatures needed from the all household members which are needed to verify the changes within 30 days of the change.

Who do I contact in the Section 8 office to report changes and schedule an appointment?
Appointments can be scheduled by calling (203) 977-1400 extension 3313 or extension 3351. You may also request an appointment by emailing Section8@charteroakcommunities.org.

How can I obtain a voucher or apply for the Section 8 Program?
Currently our waiting list is closed and we are not accepting any applications.

Please visit our Leasing page for available waiting lists.
  • In order to be eligible to participate on the Section 8 Program you must first apply. Vouchers are given to eligible applicants on the waiting list based on application date, time, and preference. To be considered an eligible applicant you must meet HUD established income limits and pass a criminal background check.
How much does Section 8 pay for each unit?
  • The amount of subsidy Section 8 pays per unit varies. The amount Section 8 pays is determined by several factors such as the payment standards, families' income, the families' allowable deductions, contract rent, and utility allowances.
  • Annually COC establishes new payment standards which are used to determine rental subsidy based on the Fair Market Rents.
  • The current payment standards are:
    • 0 Bedroom-$1,309
    • 1 Bedroom-$1,593
    • 2 Bedroom-$1,992
    • 3 Bedroom-$2,596
    • 4 Bedroom-$3,136
Does Section 8 provide assistance with moving expenses and security deposit?
  • The HCV program does not provide assistance with moving expenses and security deposit.

22 Clinton Avenue, Stamford, CT 06901 – (203) 977-1400