Being Prepared for the Intake Process

Being homeless or without stable housing is frustrating, scary and threatening. The process of applying for housing assistance is intimidating and it can result in anxiety. Knowing some helpful information about applying for housing can reduce this distress. Below are some suggestions to make finding comfortable housing easier. This is not a complete guide for every housing agency, but a resource to improve your opportunity to secure housing.

All housing agencies have an intake process for applicants to go through before being accepted for housing. All intakes are not the same, but they ask consumers to provide similar information. The intake process is the most important part when applying for housing.

Empower yourself as you prepare for your intake. Follow the following steps:

1. Call the housing agency’s contact number to find out what you need to do to get started.
2. Ask the person from the agency if you can go in person to fill out an application or if you need to schedule an appointment beforehand.
3. Find out if you need an additional referral from a human service worker like a social worker, case manager or doctor.
4. Make an appointment for your intake.
5. Fill out all applications honestly, neatly and completely.

It’s important that you’re on time for your appointments and that you dress respectfully. Be considerate to the people assisting you and the person interviewing you. Be prepared for an interview that will determine if you qualify for housing.

Know ahead of time what your housing needs are. Your priorities may vary between social independence, community support, and safety.

Consider these things:

• Do you need regular transportation?
• Do you need the support of group housing?
• You will need to provide proof of your identification for yourself and all household members.
• You must bring documentation of your household income.
• Be sure to ask the person interviewing you any questions or concerns you have about the housing you are applying for.
• Do you need staff supervision?

If you need help filling out an application or interpreting information about the interview make special arrangements so you are accommodated. For example, if you are Deaf, you can make arrangements to have an interpreter, one you are comfortable with, at your interview to help with communication. While interviewing make sure you feel safe and comfortable about the opportunity you’re considering – your future living space. Ask questions. Remember, the person who is doing your intake application with you is there to help you find the right place to live.

Once again, the intake process may vary among the different housing choices available, but some essential information is important for you to provide at an interview. As mentioned above, you need to provide proof of your identification for yourself and all household members in the form of drivers’ licenses, birth certificates, and social security cards.

You must bring documentation of your household income. Income and financial resources are not limited to wages from a job. If you have a disability that prevents you from work or helps determine your eligibility for assistance you must bring documentation, from a physician, specifying that.

The housing you apply for will have specific guidelines that you need to follow based on the rules of the program you’re applying to. For example, after applying for Section 8, the Portland Housing Authority requires that you notify them if your address changes. If you do not notify them of a change you will not remain eligible for assistance. Housing assistance through the City of Portland’s General Assistance program requires you to use your income only for basic needs. You must report all income and show proof of your receipts for all expenses.

For all your housing options it’s essential you comply with every housing regulation. Rules and guidelines of housing assistance agencies and programs are not used to discriminate, discount, or exclude. They are used to enhance and protect people’s liberties and rights to secure, safe and adequate housing.

Finding housing is a challenge – and the outcome will create your future life. With a positive attitude, preparation, and hard work the process of securing housing can be managed with success. Try to think and plan about housing with excitement and persistence. If you do, your destination will not be limited. Don’t let discouragement invade your efforts. Get plenty of support and stay positive.

Good luck.

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Table of Contents | Being Prepared for the Intake Process
Overview of Housing Options in Greater Portland
Housing Source Tip Sheets