Frequently Asked Questions

1. I’ve just submitted my application, how long will I have to wait for help? 
   There is not a simple answer to this question because an applicant’s wait will depend upon the preferences they qualify for, in addition to the date and time of their application. In general, an applicant’s wait for assisted housing may be months to several years.
2. Where am I on the waiting lists?
   GHA does not give out numbers on the waiting list, simply because your position fluctuates as new applicants are added and others are taken off the waiting lists.
3. Do I have to be a city resident to be assisted?
   No; however, GHA administers Public Housing and HCVP Assistance in the Greensboro area only.
4. I am a person with disabilities, will I get housing more quickly?
   Persons with disabilities receive the same priority as working families and full-time students on the waiting list.
5. Do you have emergency housing or emergency assistance?
   No, federally subsidized housing is not an entitlement program like other forms of public assistance. That is, even though you may be eligible for, and in need of housing assistance, there are not enough funds to assist everyone who qualifies. This is why the waiting lists and waiting process are so long.
6. How old must I be to live in your senior housing?
   62 years of age or older.
7. I have a landlord who is willing to rent to me under the Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCVP), can I get a Voucher immediately?
   No, we are required to provide assistance to families on the waiting list according to local preferences and date and time of application.
8. I’m homeless, can you help me?
   Unfortunately, GHA does not operate emergency subsidy or emergency housing. We can refer you to agencies in town that provide emergency shelter and assistance. 
9. My family is soon to be evicted, how can you help?
   Unfortunately, GHA does not operate emergency housing or emergency subsidy. We were established to provide long term affordable rental housing. Additionally, we are required to provide housing assistance to families on the waiting list according to local preferences and date and time of application.
10. What is the difference between Public Housing and Housing Choice Voucher property?
    Public Housing is rental property that is owned, managed, and leased by a housing authority. The Greensboro Housing Authority owns and manages apartments in 21 public housing communities which are leased to citizens with low-income on an income-based rental rate in the Greensboro area only.
    Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCVP): rental property is owned and managed by private landlords who list their property with a housing authority/housing agency who, in turn, refer prospective tenants to their property. The housing authority/housing agency also subsidizes part of the tenant's rent to the landlord. GHA administers HCVP Assistance in the Greensboro area only.
11. I have applied for HCVP, can I apply for Public Housing too?
    Yes, if you are already on the HCVP waiting list and need a place to live soon, you may apply for Public Housing also to increase your chances for receiving housing. If Public Housing is your first offer for housing, you will be required to remain in your unit for one year before you can be admitted into the HCV program.