Live Independently with Disability: Section 811 Supportive Housing

If you’re an adult with a significant disability and struggling to find affordable, accessible housing where you can live independently, HUD’s Section 811 Supportive Housing program might be the answer. This program combines rental assistance with access to supportive services, helping people with disabilities live in their own apartments in the community rather than in institutions or group settings.

Section 811 is built on the principle that people with disabilities should have the same housing choices as everyone else. Instead of being forced into nursing homes, group homes, or living with family when you’d prefer independence, Section 811 helps you afford your own place while connecting you to the services you need to live successfully.

The program operates nationwide but is administered differently in different places. Some areas have dedicated Section 811 apartments in specific buildings; others provide vouchers you can use anywhere. What they have in common is affordable rent (you typically pay just 30% of your income) and connections to supportive services tailored to your needs.

Understanding Section 811: Two Different Programs

Section 811 actually includes two distinct programs that work differently, though both serve the same population and goal.

Project Rental Assistance (PRA) - The Newer Program

This is the version of Section 811 that’s been funded since 2010. Under PRA, state housing agencies partner with nonprofits and property owners to set aside apartments in regular apartment buildings for people with disabilities. You apply through your state, get matched with an available unit, and receive rental assistance that stays with that specific apartment.

What makes PRA distinctive is its focus on integration. You’re not living in a “disability building”—you’re in a regular apartment community where some units happen to be set aside for Section 811. Your neighbors might include families, seniors, working professionals—it’s mixed, like any apartment building.

PRA also requires that supportive services be available to residents, coordinated through partnerships with local service providers. This might include case management, employment support, life skills training, or whatever services help you live independently.

Capital Advance Program - The Original Section 811

The older version of Section 811, which ran from 1990 through 2012, funded construction or rehabilitation of housing specifically for people with disabilities. These are actual Section 811 buildings or complexes, where all or most residents have disabilities and receive some level of services.

No new capital advance projects are being built, but the ones that exist continue operating. If you live near an existing Section 811 building, you can still apply to live there. These properties tend to have on-site services and accessibility features throughout.

Both programs provide similar benefits—deeply affordable rent and services—but work through different structures.

At a Glance: Program Essentials

Who Qualifies for Section 811

To be eligible for Section 811, you must meet requirements related to age, disability, and income.

Age Requirement

You must be at least 18 years old. Section 811 serves adults with disabilities. Families with children can qualify if at least one adult in the household has a disability.

Disability Requirement

You must have a “significant” disability, which HUD defines broadly. Qualifying disabilities include:

• Physical disabilities (mobility impairments, chronic health conditions)
• Developmental disabilities (autism, cerebral palsy, intellectual disabilities)
• Mental illness (schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depression, etc.)
• Chronic health conditions that substantially limit major life activities

The key is that your disability must be significant enough that it limits your ability to work or perform daily activities, and you need supportive services to live independently. You’ll need documentation from a doctor, mental health professional, or disability service provider confirming your disability.

Ability to Live Independently

Importantly, Section 811 is for people who can live independently with supportive services. If you require 24-hour nursing care or constant supervision, Section 811 probably isn’t appropriate—you’d need a higher level of care. But if you can handle daily tasks like cooking, cleaning, and medication management with some support or accommodations, you likely qualify.

Income Requirement

Your household income must be very low, typically at or below 50% of the area median income (AMI) for your location and household size. In practice, this often means annual incomes of $20,000 to $35,000 or less, depending on where you live.

For calculating income, HUD counts wages, Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), pension income, and most other sources. Some income and medical expenses may be excluded, which can help you qualify even if your gross income is slightly over the limit.

Location and Availability

You must live in (or be willing to move to) an area where Section 811 housing is available. Not every state or jurisdiction participates in the PRA program, and capital advance properties only exist in locations where they were built years ago.

If your state participates in Section 811 PRA, you’ll apply through the state housing agency. If there’s a capital advance property near you, you’d apply directly to that property. If neither exists in your area, you’ll need to look at other affordable housing programs like Section 8 or Public Housing.

Types of Supportive Services Available

Section 811 isn’t just about affordable apartments—it’s about helping you succeed in independent living through access to services. The specific services vary by program and location, but commonly include:

Case Management

Many Section 811 programs provide or connect you to a case manager who helps coordinate services, solve problems, connect to resources, and advocate for you when needed. Case managers can help with everything from setting up utilities to navigating benefits to dealing with landlord issues.

Health and Mental Health Services

Connections to medical care, mental health counseling, psychiatric services, and medication management. Some programs have on-site clinics or visiting health professionals; others help you connect to community providers.

Employment Support

Job training, job search assistance, supported employment, and help maintaining employment if that’s one of your goals. Not everyone in Section 811 works, but for those who want to, employment services can help.

Life Skills Training

Assistance with budgeting, cooking, cleaning, using public transportation, and other skills needed for independent living. This is especially valuable if you’re transitioning from living with family or from an institutional setting.

Transportation Assistance

Help accessing public transportation, arranging medical transport, or sometimes providing transportation to appointments and services.

Social and Recreational Activities

Programs to reduce isolation and build community among residents. This might include social events, recreational activities, or connections to community resources.

The services are voluntary—you’re not required to participate, though using them tends to help people succeed in maintaining their housing. Services are tailored to individual needs, so you work with providers to identify what would help you most.

How to Apply for Section 811

The application process depends on whether you’re applying for PRA (through your state) or for a capital advance property (directly to the building).

For Section 811 PRA (State Programs):

Step 1: Confirm Your State Participates

Visit HUD’s website or contact your state housing agency to find out if your state has an active Section 811 PRA program. Not all states participate, and some states only have programs in certain regions.

Step 2: Contact the State Housing Agency

If your state participates, contact your state housing finance agency or the designated Section 811 administrator. They can explain their specific application process, eligibility requirements, and current availability.

Step 3: Submit an Application

Applications typically require:

• Personal identifying information
• Documentation of disability from a qualified professional
• Income verification for all household members
• Proof of citizenship or eligible immigration status
• References or housing history

Some states use a centralized waiting list; others refer applicants to specific properties as units become available.

Step 4: Complete Assessment

Many programs conduct an assessment to understand your service needs and housing preferences. This helps them match you with appropriate housing and service providers.

Step 5: Wait for an Offer

Waiting times vary greatly—from a few months to several years, depending on local demand and funding. Stay in touch with the housing agency, update your contact information if it changes, and respond promptly to any requests for updated documentation.

For Capital Advance Properties (Section 811 Buildings):

Step 1: Identify Section 811 Properties

Look for existing Section 811 properties in your area. Your local disability service organizations, Area Agency on Aging, or housing authority can often tell you if any exist nearby.

Step 2: Contact the Property Directly

Call or visit the property to ask about availability, application procedures, and waiting lists. Each property manages its own application process.

Step 3: Complete the Property’s Application

Fill out the property’s application and provide required documentation (disability verification, income proof, references).

Step 4: Get on the Waiting List

If units aren’t immediately available, ask to be placed on the waiting list. Find out how the list works (is it first-come-first-served, does the property prioritize certain applicants, etc.).

Step 5: Respond When Offered Housing

When a unit becomes available and you’re offered it, you’ll typically have a limited time to accept, complete additional paperwork, and move in.

Living in Section 811 Housing: What to Expect

Once you’re approved and move into Section 811 housing, here’s what daily life looks like.

Rent and Utilities

You pay aproximately 30% of your adjusted monthly income toward rent. If your income is very low or zero, your minimum rent might be as little as $25-$50 per month. The Section 811 subsidy covers the rest of the rent.

Utilities may or may not be included depending on the property. Ask whether electric, gas, water, and trash are included in your rent or if you’ll pay those separately.

Annual Recertifications

Every year, you’ll need to recertify your eligibility by providing updated income information, confirming your disability status, and verifying you still meet program requirements. Mark these deadlines carefully—missing recertification can result in increased rent or even eviction.

Lease Requirements

You’ll sign a lease just like any other apartment. You’re expected to pay rent on time, maintain your unit in good condition, follow property rules, and be a good neighbor. Failing to follow lease terms can result in eviction, even with subsidized housing.

Service Coordination

If services are part of your Section 811 program, you’ll work with service coordinators or case managers. You’re usually not required to participate in services (housing isn’t contingent on it), but using available services tends to help people maintain stable housing.

Rights and Protections

As a Section 811 resident, you have rights including:

• Fair Housing Act protections against discrimination
• Reasonable accommodations for your disability
• Privacy and confidentiality
• The right to appeal adverse decisions
• Protection from illegal eviction

If you feel these rights are violated, contact your housing agency or HUD directly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work and still receive Section 811? Yes. There’s no requirement that you can’t work. Your rent is based on your income, so if you earn money working, your rent might increase, but you can still participate. Many Section 811 residents work part-time or full-time.

What if my income increases significantly? If your income rises above the initial eligibility limit (usually 50% AMI) after you’re already in the program, you typically can stay. However, once your income exceeds 80% AMI, the property may start charging market-rate rent on your unit, though this varies by program.

Can I have a roommate? It depends on the program and property. Some allow you to have a roommate or live with family members. Others are designed for single individuals. Ask about household composition rules when applying.

Are Section 811 apartments accessible? Many are, especially capital advance properties built specifically for people with disabilities. PRA units in regular apartment buildings may or may not have accessibility features, but you can request reasonable accommodations (like grab bars, visual alarms, etc.) if needed.

Can I have a pet? Many Section 811 properties allow pets, and service animals and emotional support animals are generally allowed under Fair Housing rules even if the property has a no-pet policy. Check specific property pet policies.

How long can I stay? As long as you continue to meet eligibility requirements and follow your lease, you can stay indefinitely. Section 811 is intended as long-term affordable housing, not temporary shelter.

What if I need to move to another area? Section 811 PRA subsidies don’t transfer like Section 8 vouchers do. If you need to relocate, you’d need to apply for Section 811 in the new location (if available) or look into portable voucher programs like Section 8.

Getting Started with Section 811

If Section 811 sounds like it might be right for you, don’t wait. Waiting lists can be long, and the sooner you apply, the sooner you’ll get housed.

First, determine if your state has a Section 811 PRA program. Visit your state housing finance agency website or call them to ask about Section 811 availability and application procedures.

Second, connect with local disability service organizations. Agencies serving people with developmental disabilities, mental health centers, independent living centers, and similar organizations often know about Section 811 and can help you apply.

Third, while you’re waiting for Section 811, apply for other affordable housing programs too. Put yourself on the Section 8 waiting list, apply for public housing, and look into other subsidized housing options. Having multiple applications out increases your chances of finding housing sooner.

Finally, gather your documentation now. Get a letter from your doctor or mental health provider documenting your disability. Collect income verification. Assemble this paperwork so you’re ready when an application opportunity comes up.

For more information about Section 811 and to locate programs in your area, visit HUD’s Section 811 program page: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/housing/mfh/progdesc/disab811

Section 811 can be life-changing for people with disabilities who want to live independently but need affordable housing and supportive services. If you’re eligible, pursuing this program is absolutely worth the effort, even if it takes time to get placed. Independent living with the supports you need is possible—Section 811 exists to make that happen.