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Section 8 Waiting Lists Open April 2026

Brittney Richey
Published April 07, 2026 01:05:am EST

Introduction

Early April 2026 brings several Section 8 affordable housing opportunities across the United States as housing authorities open their Project-Based Voucher and Housing Choice Voucher waiting lists. This update highlights openings in California, Massachusetts, Illinois, Iowa, and Texas, with daily openings throughout the week. These opportunities range from property-specific PBV programs to traditional portable housing vouchers.

Opening Monday, April 6

California

Orange County Housing Authority - Santa Ana

Major Southern California opportunity serving Orange County communities.

Opening Tuesday, April 7

Massachusetts

American Training by Chelmsford Housing - Chelmsford

Contact housing authority for specific program details and closing date.

Illinois

Housing Authority of Cook County - Chicago

Major metropolitan Chicago area opportunity with property-specific vouchers.

Opening Wednesday, April 8

Iowa

City of Dubuque

Note: Dubuque opened HCV waiting list on April 1 - this is a separate PBV opening.

Eastern Iowa Regional Housing Authority - Davenport

Regional coverage serving multiple eastern Iowa communities.

Opening Thursday, April 9

Texas

Harlingen Housing Authority

Dual program opening in South Texas Rio Grande Valley.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Section 8 Waiting List?

Section 8 Waiting lists are lists that are maintained by local Housing Authorities to determine who receives a section 8 housing voucher. Each list is different in the way that it operates. Some housing authorities use a lottery system where recipients are chosen at random and others operate a list on a first-come, first-serve basis. Getting your name on your local housing authorities waiting list is typically the first step toward securing a housing voucher.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Voucher Once Im On the Waiting List?

The time it takes to get a voucher once on a section 8 waiting list depends on a number of factors. Some housing authority’s waitlist is very small and voucher assistance can be provided quickly. In larger communities with long waiting lists the times can take months or longer.

How Do I Check My Status on the Waiting List?

Contact the housing authority that maintains the waiting list you are currently on. This is a critical step as some housing authorities will remove names from their waiting list in an effort to keep their list up to date. Its recommended to continually check your status to ensure that your name remains on the waiting list and you continue to express your need for affordable housing.

What Happens Once My Name is Selected From The Waiting List?

Typically the housing authority will do final checks to ensure that you still meet the eligibility requirements such as income restrictions and also confirm your household size hasnt changed. This helps ensure your receiving the proper amount of assistance. Once final checks and approvals are complete you can begin yoru search for an affordable home that accepts your section 8 voucher.

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