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Section 8 Waiting Lists Open March 2026

Brittney Richey
Published March 03, 2026 01:59:am EST

Section 8 and Public Housing Waiting Lists Opening March 2026: Multi-State Updates

Introduction

March 2026 brings numerous affordable housing opportunities across the United States as housing authorities open their Section 8 and Public Housing waiting lists. This comprehensive update highlights openings in Ohio, Illinois, Rhode Island, California, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, and Colorado, with varying application windows ranging from brief 3-day periods to extended multi-week opportunities. Several programs offer preference categories including veterans and agricultural workers.

Opening This Weekend

Ohio

Cuyahoga Metropolitan Housing Authority - Cleveland

Check website for closing date and additional details.

Opening Monday, March 2

Illinois

Housing Authority of the City of Rock Island

Multiple Waiting Lists Opening:

  1. Voss Brothers Lofts - PBV (Market Rate)
    • Unit Type: 2-bedroom market rate units
    • Deadline: Monday, March 2, 2026
    • Application: Online at riha4rent.org
  2. Public Housing
    • Opening Date: Monday, March 2, 2026
    • Application: Online at riha4rent.org
    • Contact Phone: (309) 788-0825
  3. General Waiting List
    • Opening Date: Monday, March 2, 2026
    • Application: Online at riha4rent.org
    • Contact Phone: (309) 788-0825

Multiple opportunities available through the same housing authority.

Rhode Island

Cumberland Housing Authority

Contact for application details and closing date.

California

Housing Authority of the County of Contra Costa - Martinez

Housing Authority of the City of Richmond

Richmond PBV is administered by Contra Costa County - one application may cover both.

Pennsylvania

Housing Authority of the County of Berks - Reading

Opening Later This Week

Minnesota

Washington County CDA - Woodbury

⚠️ URGENT: Only 3-day window - prepare now!

Colorado

Housing Authority of the City of Pueblo

This specialized program serves agricultural workers.

Critical Application Timeline

Opening This Weekend:

  1. Cleveland, OH - March 1 (check for details)

Opening Monday, March 2:

  1. Rock Island, IL - Multiple lists (Voss Brothers deadline March 2, others TBD)
  2. Cumberland, RI - Public Housing (check for details)
  3. Contra Costa County, CA - March 2-19 (18 days)
  4. Richmond, CA - March 2-19 (18 days, via Contra Costa)
  5. Berks County, PA - March 2-9 (exactly 7 days, veterans preference)

Opening Tuesday-Thursday:

  1. Washington County, MN - March 3-5 (3 days only)
  2. Pueblo, CO - March 3 (farm labor, in-person)
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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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