Affordable housing remains a pressing issue for low-income individuals and families in Wisconsin, where over 33% of renters spend more than 30% of their income on housing costs. The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program provides crucial rental assistance to help eligible households secure safe, stable, and affordable housing. Administered by local housing authorities and overseen by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), this program is a lifeline for those struggling to make ends meet in a state where housing costs continue to rise.

This guide provides an overview of the Section 8 program in Wisconsin, including eligibility requirements, income limits, fair market rents, the application process, and waiting list details. By understanding these resources, individuals and families can access the assistance they need to improve their quality of life.

Who Qualifies for Section 8 Housing in Wisconsin?

Eligibility for Section 8 housing is determined by several factors:

Income Limits: Applicants must earn at or below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for their area. For example, in 2025, the income limit for a family of four in Milwaukee County is $49,500, while in Dane County, it is $52,800.
Household Size: Income limits increase with household size, allowing larger families to qualify under higher thresholds.
Citizenship: Applicants must also be U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens and meet specific background requirements, with certain criminal offenses potentially disqualifying applicants.

In addition to meeting the income and household size requirements, specific categories of individuals may also qualify for Section 8 housing in Wisconsin. These categories include:

Elderly individuals: Individuals aged 62 and over may qualify for Section 8 housing in Wisconsin.
Disabled individuals: Individuals with disabilities may also qualify for Section 8 housing in Wisconsin.
Families with children: Families with children may be eligible for Section 8 housing in Wisconsin, provided they meet the income and household size requirements.

By meeting the eligibility criteria and specific categories of individuals, low-income individuals and families in Wisconsin can access the benefits of the Section 8 housing program.

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

Section 8 determines the maximum amount of rent that it will pay based on several factors. These factors include the location and type of housing, the number of bedrooms, and the utility costs. The maximum amount of rent that Section 8 will pay is known as the payment standard.

In Wisconsin, the payment standard is set at a percentage of the fair market rent (FMR) for the area. The FMR is determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and represents the average rent for a unit in a specific area.

The payment standard for Section 8 housing in Wisconsin typically ranges from 90% to 110% of the FMR. However, the actual amount of rent that Section 8 will pay for a specific unit may be lower than the payment standard due to other factors, such as the tenant's income and the amount of rent the landlord is charging.

Tenants can use this information to search for affordable housing by looking for units with rents that are within the payment standard for their area. By doing so, tenants can ensure that their housing costs are within their budget and that they are utilizing the benefits of the Section 8 program effectively.

Income Limits for Section 8 Housing in Wisconsin

Income limits are an important factor in determining eligibility for Section 8 housing in Wisconsin. In general, applicants must have a household income that is less than 50% of the area median income (AMI) to be eligible for the program.

Income limits for Section 8 housing in Wisconsin are determined annually by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and vary depending on the size of the household and the location of the housing. In addition to the 50% AMI requirement, there is also a maximum income limit for eligibility, which is set at 80% of the AMI.

The impact of income limits on eligibility and rental payments is significant. Individuals and families who meet the income and household size requirements are eligible for assistance with their rental payments through Section 8. However, the amount of rental assistance they receive may be reduced if their income increases. This is known as the tenant rent contribution.

Tenant rent contributions are calculated based on a percentage of the household's income. The percentage varies depending on the household size and the number of individuals in the household who are working or elderly/disabled. As a result, tenants who earn more may be required to contribute a larger portion of their income towards their rental payments, reducing the amount of rental assistance they receive.

By understanding income limits and their impact on eligibility and rental payments, individuals and families can make informed decisions about their housing options and effectively utilize the benefits of the Section 8 program.

Fair Market Rents for Section 8 Housing in Wisconsin

Fair market rents (FMRs) are an important factor in determining the maximum amount of rent that Section 8 will pay for a specific unit in Wisconsin. The FMR represents the average rent for a unit in a specific area and is determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Fair market rents in Wisconsin vary depending on the location and type of housing. In general, FMRs for urban areas are higher than FMRs for rural areas. FMRs for different sizes of units, such as one-bedroom, two-bedroom, or three-bedroom units, are also different.

The following table shows the current fair market rents for Wisconsin.

Tenants can use fair market rents to find affordable housing by comparing the FMRs in their area to the rents being charged by landlords. If a landlord is charging more than the FMR, the tenant may be required to pay the difference out-of-pocket or find a different unit that is within the FMR.

Tenants can also use fair market rents to compare the cost of living in different areas and to make informed decisions about their housing options. By understanding how FMRs are determined and how they can be used to find affordable housing, tenants can access the benefits of the Section 8 program effectively and improve their quality of life.

How Do I Apply for Section 8 Housing in Wisconsin?

Applying for Section 8 housing in Wisconsin is a straightforward process. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply:

Check Eligibility: Verify your household meets income and other eligibility criteria.
Find a Local Housing Authority: Contact the housing authority serving your area. A full list is available on the HUD website.
Complete the Application: Provide accurate information about your income, household size, and citizenship.
Submit Documentation: Include proof of income, Social Security numbers, and identification for all household members.
Wait for Notification: Once approved, you will be placed on the waiting list.

Applicants can apply for Section 8 housing in Wisconsin online or in person. To apply online, visit the Wisconsin Department of Health Services website. To apply in person, visit your local housing authority.

Wisconsin Housing Authorities

Housing authorities in Wisconsin administer the Section 8 program at the local level. These housing authorities are responsible for determining eligibility, providing rental assistance, and maintaining a waiting list for the program.

There are several housing authorities throughout Wisconsin that administer the Section 8 program. Each housing authority serves a specific geographic area. To find the local housing authority that serves your area view the following list:

Housing Authority	Contact Information	Visit Website
Milwaukee Housing Authority	809 N Broadway, Milwaukee, WI 53202 (414) 286-5678 Email	Visit Website
Madison Housing Authority	30 W Mifflin St #700, Madison, WI 53703 (608) 266-4675 Email	Visit Website
Green Bay Housing Authority	330 S Jefferson St, Green Bay, WI 54301 (920) 448-3400 Email	Visit Website
Racine Housing Authority	837 Main St, Racine, WI 53403 (262) 636-3405 Email	Visit Website
Eau Claire Housing Authority	203 S Farwell St, Eau Claire, WI 54701 (715) 839-4947 Email	Visit Website

According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, there are 83 housing authorities in Wisconsin responsible for administering the Section 8 housing program. To view a complete list, use our housing authority search tool.

The role of housing authorities in the Section 8 program is critical. Housing authorities are responsible for verifying eligibility, calculating rent contributions, and administering rental assistance payments. They also provide assistance to tenants and landlords throughout the rental process.

Tenants who are approved for Section 8 housing in Wisconsin will work directly with their local housing authority to receive rental assistance. By understanding the role of housing authorities and contacting the appropriate authority for their area, tenants can effectively access the benefits of the Section 8 program and improve their quality of life.

Section 8 Housing Wisconsin Waiting List

The waiting list process for Section 8 housing in Wisconsin is an important part of the program. Due to the high demand for affordable housing, there may be a waiting period for applicants to receive rental assistance through the program.

When an applicant submits an application for Section 8 housing in Wisconsin, they are placed on a waiting list maintained by their local housing authority. Waiting times vary depending on the availability of rental assistance and the number of applicants on the waiting list.

The following table shows housing authorities in Wisconsin with currently open waiting lists.

  
      Housing Authority
      Waiting List Status
    
      Appleton Housing Authority
      OPEN
    
      Beloit Housing Authority
      OPEN
    
      Eau Claire Housing Authority
      OPEN
    
      Green Bay Housing Authority
      OPEN
    
      Janesville Housing Authority
      OPEN
    
      Kenosha Housing Authority
      OPEN
    
      La Crosse Housing Authority
      OPEN
    
      Madison Housing Authority
      OPEN
    
      Milwaukee Housing Authority
      OPEN
    
      Racine Housing Authority
      OPEN
    
      Sheboygan Housing Authority
      OPEN
    
      Superior Housing Authority
      OPEN
    
      Wausau Housing Authority
      OPEN

To check your status on the waiting list, contact your local housing authority. They can provide you with an estimated wait time and let you know where you are on the waiting list.

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

The approval process for Section 8 housing in Wisconsin can vary depending on a number of factors. These factors include the availability of rental assistance, the number of applicants on the waiting list, and the time it takes to verify eligibility and process applications.

In general, the approval process for Section 8 housing in Wisconsin can take several weeks to several months. After an applicant submits an application, they will be placed on a waiting list maintained by their local housing authority. When their application reaches the top of the waiting list, they will be invited for an interview with the housing authority to verify their eligibility and provide additional information.

Factors that can affect approval time include the availability of rental assistance, the accuracy and completeness of the application, and the time it takes to verify eligibility and process applications. Additionally, factors such as changes in income or household size may impact the approval process.

Other Low Income Housing Options in Wisconsin

While waiting for Section 8, consider other affordable housing programs:

Public Housing: Owned and managed by local housing authorities with income-based rents.
Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) Properties: Privately owned developments offering reduced rents for eligible tenants.
Supportive Housing: Programs for seniors and individuals with disabilities.

For more resources, visit the Wisconsin Department of Health Services or contact your local housing authority.

Championing Low-Income Housing Options in Wisconsin

The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program is a crucial resource for low-income households in Wisconsin, providing access to safe and affordable housing. With rising housing costs, understanding eligibility, income limits, and application processes is essential for securing assistance. While waiting for Section 8, exploring other low-income housing options can help bridge the gap.

By leveraging these resources and staying proactive, Wisconsin residents can take meaningful steps toward housing stability and improved quality of life. For assistance, reach out to your local housing authority or explore programs through the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.