The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program assists very low-income families, the elderly, and the disabled to afford decent, safe, and sanitary housing in the private market. Since housing assistance is provided on behalf of the family or individual, participants are able to find their own housing, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments.

A family that is issued a voucher is responsible for finding a suitable housing unit where the owner agrees to rent under the Program. This unit may include the family's current residence. Rental units must meet minimum standards of health and safety.

A housing subsidy is paid to the landlord directly by the LACDA on behalf of the participating family. The family then pays the difference between the actual rent charged by the landlord and the amount subsidized by the Program.