FAQ
ABOUT THE TAMPA HOUSING AUTHORITY
1. What does the Tampa Housing Authority do?
Our mission is to cultivate affordable housing while empowering people and communities. Beyond managing federal Public Housing and Housing Choice Voucher programs, we work with local governments, and partner with public and private organizations to carry out entrepreneurial urban development projects that expand accessible housing options in the Tampa area through mixed-income residences paired with commercial developments, and augmented by community service initiatives that improve the quality of life for all Tampanians.
2. How can I apply for a job at the Tampa Housing Authority?
Passionate about helping people? If so, joining the Tampa Housing Authority is the best move for your career. See current openings and apply today.
3. How can I contact the Tampa Housing Authority?
Please visit our online Help Center to submit your inquiry to the appropriate department or access our full contact information, including phone numbers, mailing address, and business hours.
4. How can I learn about social programs provided by the Tampa Housing Authority?
Visit our online Help Center and send an inquiry to Resident Services.
5. How can I put a request for the Tampa Housing Authority Customer Service Team?
Visit our online Help Center and send an inquiry to Assisted Housing.
6. How can I file a complaint to the Tampa Housing Authority?
Visit our online Help Center and send an inquiry to Public Relations.
7. How can I submit a public records request online?
You can submit a public records request right from our website via JustFOIA.
8. How do I submit a news media inquiry?
Members of the news media can send inquiries to PublicRelations@thafl.com.
1. Who is eligible for housing assistance?
Eligibility criteria vary, but generally, low-income individuals and families are eligible for housing assistance programs. Specific income limits and other factors are considered for each program. Keep in mind that not all those eligible receive housing assistance, because of the great demand, applicants are selected through a lottery system.
2. How long is the waiting period?
It varies, but the waiting period typically ranges from 3 to 5 years.
3. How do I apply for housing assistance?
Information about waitlists accepting applications can be found here:
https://www.tampaha.org/wait-list-information.
Those qualified should register on the THA Portal to access detailed information on how to apply and submit their application online: https://portal.thafl.com/Clients/clientHome.aspx.
4. How are rent payments determined?
Rent payments are typically based on your income and family size. Most programs require participants to pay around 30% of their adjusted income toward rent and utilities.
5. What is Public Housing?
Public Housing is housing owned and managed by the Housing Authority. It provides affordable rental housing to eligible low-income families, seniors, and individuals.
6. What are Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers?
Section 8 Vouchers allow eligible participants to find housing in the private market and receive a subsidy to help cover a portion of their rent. The voucher holder typically pays around 30% of their income towards rent.
7. Can I transfer to a different unit or location?
Transfers may be possible under certain circumstances. Contact the Assisted Housing Team to inquire about the transfer process and availability.
8. Can I appeal a housing assistance decision?
Yes, if you disagree with a housing assistance decision, you have the right to appeal. Instructions for the appeal process can be provided by your Housing Specialist. Please contact your Housing Specialist.
9. What happens if my income or family size changes?
It's important to report any changes in income or family size promptly to ensure that your rent and assist.
10. Do you offer any homeownership programs?
Yes, we offer homeownership programs to help eligible participants transition from renting to owning a home. Check our homeownership page for detailed information.
11. Where can find subsided housing listings?
You can view a list of currently subsided housing here:
https://www.tampaha.org/subsidized-units
12. How do I become a landlord in the Section 8 Program?
Property owners and managers should visit our Landlord Page for detailed information on how to join the Section 8 Tenant-Based Assistance Program.
13. I'm facing a situation of homelessness, do you provide emergency housing?
Please note that the Tampa Housing Authority is currently unable to offer emergency housing. However, the City of Tampa has a Housing Hotline that can provide information on emergency housing assistance. Please call 211 to learn about community resources available.
14. How do your waiting lists work?
Due to the high demand for housing assistance and our limited resources, our waitlists operate on a lottery system. While joining a waitlist does not guarantee housing assistance, it does provide you with an opportunity to be selected.
15. How do I get on your waitlist?
Explore our currently open waitlists by clicking on https://www.tampaha.org/wait-list-information. Please ensure you only apply to those that align with your family and income situation. We regularly update this link, so if no waitlists are visible, it means none are currently available.
If you qualify for a waiting list, we strongly encourage you to apply immediately, as our waitlists can close at any time without notice. Please understand that this is not emergency housing; joining a waitlist means you will be served based on your qualifications and preferences. The wait time can range from months to years, and there is a possibility that you may not receive assistance if funding does not meet demand.
1. How do I report maintenance issues in my unit?
You can report maintenance issues online via Rent Café.
2. How can I do my recertification?
Recertifications are possible via Rent Café. You can find detailed information about recertification here: https://www.tampaha.org/recertification.
3. What is the pet policy at Tampa Housing Authority Properties?
Pets are welcome at Tampa Housing Authority properties. Your pet must be registered with the leasing office. Up-to-date vaccination is mandatory. There is a one-time, non-refundable pet fee. Your pet must be spayed or neutered.
4. Are there any services or programs for seniors or disabled individuals?
We have programs specifically designed for seniors and disabled residents. Contact Resident Services to learn more about available services.
1. How can I become a Tampa Housing Authority vendor?
Those interested in providing services and goods to the Tampa Housing Authority should register to become a vendor. You can review instructions on how to register here: https://www.tampaha.org/instructions-on-registering-using-the-tha-vendor-ledger-portal.
2. How can I learn about bid opportunities from the Tampa Housing Authority?
You must create an account on the THA Vendor Ledger Portal to have bid opportunities automatically sent to you. Make sure to provide your full contact information and complete description of services to be appropriately alerted.
3. How can I access the results from past solicitations?
Information about current and past solicitations are available on the THA Vendor Ledger Portal. Login or register to access.
1. How can I report a public safety issue?
For all crimes and health issues, please call 911 first. Avoid confrontation, do not put yourself or others in harm's way.
2. How can I report program abuse, fraud, or criminal activity?
The easiest way to report program abuse, fraud, or crimes is through our website:
https://www.tampaha.org/custom-forms/compliance-department-report-program-abuse-form
3. How can I contact the Public Safety Department?
You can call our Public Safety Anonymous Hotline: (813) 344-3210. Use this number to report any safety hazards, criminal activity, lease violations, employee or contractor abuse that occurs in your residential community.
