Applicants

What is the Housing Choice Voucher Program?
The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program helps people with low incomes afford safe, stable housing in the private market. Bath Housing manages the program locally.

How do I apply?
You can apply online through the Centralized Waiting List. Paper applications are also available and can be mailed, faxed, or dropped off at our office. It’s important to keep your contact information up to date and respond to requests.

How does the program work?
If you receive a voucher, you find your own housing. Bath Housing pays part of the rent directly to the landlord, and you pay the rest.

How much rent will I pay?
Most households pay about 30% of their income toward rent and utilities. You cannot move into a unit where your share is more than 40% of your income.

What types of housing can I choose?
You can choose an apartment, house, or other rental unit, as long as the landlord participates, the unit meets program standards, and the rents do not exceed the Payment Standards set by Bath Housing Authority each year.

How many bedrooms will I qualify for?
Voucher size is based on household size:

• 1–2 people: 1 bedroom
• 2–4 people: 2 bedrooms
• 3–6 people: 3 bedrooms
• 4–8 people: 4 bedrooms
• 6–10 people: 5 bedrooms

Who can apply?
You must meet income limits. For the Voucher Program, that means the household must have income at or below 50% of area median income, along with other program requirements.

Is there a waiting list?
Yes. There are more applicants than available vouchers. Applications are placed on the waiting list by date and time, along with local preferences.

What is the Centralized Waiting List?
Maine uses a Centralized Waiting List for Housing Choice Vouchers. When you apply once, your name can be considered by multiple housing authorities, including Bath Housing Authority.

How are vouchers assigned?
When vouchers become available, applicants are selected from the waiting list based on program rules and local preferences, such as local residency, work, or household needs.

What happens after I receive a voucher?
You will have time to find housing. Bath Housing will inspect the unit and approve the rent before you move in.

What are my responsibilities?
You must pay your portion of rent on time, follow your lease, report changes in income, and complete annual reexaminations.

Where can I learn more about program rules?
The program is guided by Bath Housing’s Administrative Plan, which explains policies, procedures, and program rules in detail. You can review it here:
Housing Choice Voucher Administrative Plan