The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program is a rental assistance program funded by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The program assists low income households with safe, decent and affordable housing at privately owned properties. Rental units must pass an inspection before the monthly housing subsidy can be paid to an owner. With a voucher, the household pays a portion of their adjusted income toward their rent and utilities and New Hampshire Housing pays the remainder directly to the landlord. The estimated waiting time for a voucher is based on the number of people on the waiting list, the availability of vouchers, and an applicant's preference status. For a majority of applicants, this could mean an estimated wait time of 6-8 years before their name reaches the top of the list.