The recent federal shutdown continues to impact New York City, as local officials prepare for delays in rental assistance payments for low-income residents. The Section 8 program is expected to face delays in fund disbursement, with the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) receiving notice of this from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
Tenants typically contribute around 30 percent of their income toward housing, with the government covering the remainder through Section 8. According to an official NYCHA statement, reported by Gothamist, “Following notice from HUD that payments to Section 8 landlords would be delayed this month, NYCHA is assessing interim options and will distribute funding as soon as it becomes available from HUD.”
The New York Apartment Association (NYAA) referenced NYCHA’s update, noting that it is “standard procedure to pay its Section 8 landlords as soon as is reasonably practicable following its receipt of funding from HUD.” NYCHA officials anticipate receiving the remaining federally approved funds soon and have stated they will distribute the overdue payments to property owners shortly thereafter, according to a statement provided to Norwood News.
Recognizing the impact on tenants and landlords, NYCHA issued an apology for the delay. In a statement to Gothamist, the agency said, “NYCHA extends its sincere apologies for any inconvenience incurred as a result of the delayed distribution of Section 8 funds” and confirmed that it will “continue to work with HUD and update tenants and landlords accordingly in the weeks to come.”
As the effects of the federal shutdown continue to affect social service funding, NYAA is closely monitoring the situation to keep its members informed. Norwood News has also contacted HUD for additional information and will share updates once they are received.
