Nebraska is experiencing a significant shortage of affordable rental housing, particularly for extremely low-income (ELI) households—those earning at or below 30% of the area median income. According to the most recent National Low Income Housing Coalition Gap Report, Nebraska faces a shortage of tens of thousands of affordable and available rental homes for extremely low-income renter households. This scarcity forces many families to spend a disproportionate share of their income on housing, leaving less for essentials like food, healthcare, and education.

The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program is essential in addressing this gap by providing rental assistance to low-income individuals and families, enabling them to secure safe and affordable housing in the private market.

Who Qualifies for Section 8 Housing in Nebraska?

Eligibility for Section 8 housing in Nebraska is determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and local housing authorities. While the general criteria remain the same, HUD updates income thresholds annually, which can impact qualification rates in 2026.

Income Limits: For 2026, Section 8 income limits in Nebraska are based on HUD-published Area Median Income (AMI) calculations and vary by location and household size. Households must typically earn 50% or less of the AMI, though certain housing authorities may extend eligibility to 80% of AMI.
Residency and Immigration Status: At least one household member must be a U.S. citizen or have eligible immigration status.
Background and Rental History: Background checks remain a prerequisite to ensure applicants meet federal and local housing authority standards. Satisfactory rental history, free from serious lease violations or evictions, is also required.
Priority Populations: Households with elderly or disabled members or those experiencing homelessness may receive prioritization due to increased state funding for vulnerable populations.

Income Limits for Section 8 Housing in Nebraska

The latest projections adjust income limits to reflect regional economic growth and inflationary trends.

Exceptions for households with elderly or disabled members may allow slightly higher thresholds. Housing authorities consider gross income, including wages, benefits, and other sources, while accounting for deductions like childcare expenses and medical costs.

In Nebraska, the income limits for Section 8 housing vary by county and household size. Income limits for Section 8 housing in Nebraska vary by county and household size and are updated annually by HUD.

To determine if a household meets the income limits for Section 8 housing in Nebraska, the housing authority will consider the household's gross income, which includes income from all sources, such as wages, salaries, and benefits. The housing authority may also take into account certain deductions, such as medical expenses and child care costs, when calculating the household's income.

Exceptions to the income limits may be made for certain households, such as those with elderly or disabled members. In addition, some housing authorities may offer assistance to households with incomes up to 80% of the AMI, depending on funding availability.

What is the Maximum Amount of Rent That Section 8 Will Pay in Nebraska?

HUD’s most recent Fair Market Rent (FMR) estimates reflect rising rental costs across Nebraska, particularly in metropolitan areas like Omaha and Lincoln. As of the latest estimates:

These figures influence the maximum amount Section 8 will cover, with most households generally paying around 30% of their adjusted income toward rent and utilities. Housing authorities now employ updated utility allowances to better address varying energy costs across Nebraska.

It is important to note that FMR may not reflect the actual rental market in a particular area, as rental prices can vary widely based on a number of factors, such as the condition and location of the housing unit. Nonetheless, FMR remains an important tool in determining the maximum amount of rental assistance that can be provided through the Section 8 housing program.

By using FMR to set rental assistance limits, the Section 8 housing program helps ensure that eligible households have access to affordable housing that meets basic safety and quality standards.

How Do I Apply for Section 8 Housing in Nebraska?

The Section 8 application process in Nebraska is administered by local housing authorities and typically includes online or in-person submission options.

Determine Eligibility: Verify your household meets income, residency, and other criteria through HUD’s Nebraska page.
Locate Housing Authorities: Applications must be submitted through local housing authorities. Major authorities include the Omaha Housing Authority and Lincoln Housing Authority.
Submit an Application: Complete forms online or in person, providing proof of income, identity, and other required documentation.
Waitlist and Approval: Due to high demand, waiting lists in cities like Omaha and Lincoln may still exceed 1-2 years or longer. Rural areas might have shorter wait times.

It is important to note that you must apply for Section 8 housing through a housing authority in the county where you plan to live. If you move to a different county, you will need to apply for Section 8 housing through the housing authority in that county.

If you have questions or need assistance with the application process, you can contact the housing authority directly for more information.

Nebraska Housing Authorities

Recent studies highlight Nebraska's significant affordable housing shortage. A 2024 report from the National Low Income Housing Coalition estimates a deficit of over 45,000 affordable rental units for extremely low-income households in the state.

The Nebraska Investment Finance Authority (NIFA) has identified long-term affordable housing development as a statewide priority to help address ongoing shortages.

New state and federal initiatives aim to address these challenges, including:

Expanded Funding: Federal and state housing funding levels vary by year and housing authority, which can impact waiting list length and voucher availability.
Local Development Incentives: Cities like Omaha and Lincoln are incentivizing private developers to create affordable housing options.
Utility Support Programs: Enhanced support for energy costs helps reduce the financial burden on low-income tenants.

There are a number of housing authorities in Nebraska that participate in the Section 8 program, including:

Housing Authority	Contact Information	Visit Website
Omaha Housing Authority	1823 Harney Street, Omaha, NE 68102 Phone: (402) 444-6900 Email	Visit Website
Lincoln Housing Authority	5700 R Street, Lincoln, NE 68505 Phone: (402) 434-5500 Email	Visit Website
Housing Authority of the City of Kearney	320 East 25th Street, Kearney, NE 68848 Phone: (308) 236-5687 Email	Visit Website
Grand Island Housing Authority	201 E Stolley Park Rd, Grand Island, NE 68801 Phone: (308) 385-5530 Email	Visit Website
Scottsbluff Housing Authority	1803 3rd Avenue, Scottsbluff, NE 69361 Phone: (308) 632-0473 Email	Visit Website

Each housing authority has its own set of eligibility requirements and application process. You can find more information on the housing authorities in Nebraska that participate in the Section 8 program on the HUD website or by searching online.

Section 8 Housing Nebraska Waiting List

Due to limited funding and high demand, many housing authorities in Nebraska have waiting lists for Section 8 housing. The waiting list is used to manage the distribution of rental assistance and ensure that eligible households receive assistance in a fair and timely manner.

When a household applies for Section 8 housing, they are placed on a waiting list until funding becomes available. The length of time that a household remains on the waiting list can vary depending on factors such as the availability of funding, the number of applicants on the waiting list, and the household's priority status.

Priority status is determined by the housing authority and may be based on factors such as income level, family size, and whether the household includes elderly or disabled members.

The following table shows the current waiting list status for Housing Authorities in Nebraska.

  
      Housing Authority
      Current Waiting List Status
    
      Omaha Housing Authority
      OPEN
    
      Lincoln Housing Authority
      CLOSED
    
      Housing Authority of the City of Kearney
      OPEN
    
      Grand Island Housing Authority
      OPEN
    
      Scottsbluff Housing Authority
      CLOSED

To check your waiting list status, you can contact the housing authority where you applied for Section 8 housing. Many housing authorities have online portals where you can check your status, or you can call the housing authority directly.

It is important to keep your contact information up-to-date with the housing authority while you are on the waiting list. If your contact information changes and the housing authority is unable to reach you, you may lose your place on the waiting list.

While waiting for Section 8 housing assistance, it is important to explore other affordable housing options that may be available in your area, such as low-income apartments or rental assistance programs offered by local non-profit organizations.

How Long Does it Take to Get Approved for Section 8 in Nebraska?

The time it takes to get approved for Section 8 housing in Nebraska can vary depending on a number of factors, including the availability of funding, the number of applicants on the waiting list, and the complexity of the application process.

Initial application processing may take several weeks, while final approval depends largely on waiting list availability and funding. Once you submit your application and required documentation, the housing authority will review your information and determine your eligibility. If you are eligible, you will be placed on a waiting list until funding becomes available.

Factors that can impact the approval time for Section 8 housing in Nebraska include:

The number of applicants on the waiting list: If there are a large number of applicants on the waiting list, it may take longer to be approved for Section 8 housing.
Availability of funding: Funding for Section 8 housing is limited, and the amount of funding available can impact the timeline for approval.
Completeness of application: If your application is missing required documentation or information, it may take longer to be approved for Section 8 housing.

To check the status of your application, you can contact the housing authority where you applied for Section 8 housing. Many housing authorities have online portals where you can check your status, or you can call the housing authority directly.

Other Low-Income Housing Options in Nebraska

While waiting for Section 8 assistance, households in Nebraska can explore several alternative affordable housing options. Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) properties offer subsidized rental units through tax credits, providing a valuable resource for low-income families.

Public housing, managed by local authorities, is another option, catering to low-income individuals, seniors, and people with disabilities. Additionally, nonprofit organizations like Habitat for Humanity provide vital housing assistance, including homebuilding and repair programs, to help families secure safe and affordable living spaces.

Looking Ahead: Housing Stability in Nebraska

The Section 8 program continues to be a lifeline for thousands of Nebraskans, addressing critical housing needs in a challenging economic climate. As housing needs continue into 2026, the Section 8 program remains a critical resource for Nebraska residents seeking long-term housing stability. Eligible residents should stay informed through their local housing authority and HUD resources to maximize their chances of securing assistance.