The Illinois Guide to Section 8 Housing

Section 8 in Illinois refers to a federal housing assistance program that is administered by local public housing authorities (PHAs). The program is officially known as the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program. The main goal of Section 8 is to help low-income individuals and families afford decent, safe and sanitary housing in the private rental market.

What is Section 8 Housing in Illinois

Eligible households receive housing vouchers from local PHAs when approved for Section 8. These vouchers represent a commitment by the PHA to subsidize a portion of the tenant's rent and utilities.

Once individuals or families receive a voucher, they are responsible for finding a suitable rental unit in the private market. The chosen unit must meet specific health and safety standards, and the landlord must agree to participate in this program. 

What is the Most Section 8 Will Pay in Illinois?

The maximum amount that Section 8 in Illinois will pay is determined by the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for a specific area. HUD establishes the FMR, and it represents the average rent, including utilities (except telephone), for privately owned rental housing of a certain size in a particular geographic area.

This program uses the FMR as a baseline to calculate the maximum subsidy that can be provided to eligible households. The actual subsidy amount may be lower, depending on the family's income and the specific terms of the rental agreement.

What are the Illinois Section 8 Housing Requirements?

To qualify for Section 8, applicants must meet eligibility criteria set by HUD and implemented by local PHAs. The requirements may include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Income Limits:

  Applicants must have a household income that falls within the criteria established by HUD. 

• Citizenship or Eligible Immigration Status:

  Applicants must be U.S. citizens, nationals or have eligible immigration status. 

• Background Checks:

  Applicants and household members may be subject to criminal background checks. While a criminal record does not automatically disqualify individuals, certain criminal activities may impact eligibility.

• Rental History:

  Applicants must usually provide information about their rental history. This may include references from previous landlords and verification of the ability to maintain a lease.

• Family Composition:

  The composition of the household, including the number of family members and their relationships, is taken into account. The household’s composition determines the size of the unit that can be subsidized with a voucher. 

What are the Income Limits for Housing Assistance Programs in Illinois?

Income limits for Section 8 in Illinois are determined by HUD and based on the area's median earnings and family size. These limits help determine eligibility for this program and the level of assistance a household can receive.

HUD updates income limits annually, and they can vary based on the specific geographic area (such as counties or metropolitan areas) within Illinois. These criteria are typically expressed as a percentage of the area median income (AMI).

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

The time it takes to get approved for Section 8 housing can vary based on several factors, including the local demand for vouchers, the availability of funding and the efficiency of the PHA while processing applications. 

Once an applicant's name comes up on the waiting list, the PHA will review the application to determine eligibility. The processing time can vary, and it depends on factors such as the number of applications being processed and the complexity of verifying applicant information.

How To Qualify for Section 8 in Illinois

Applicants must demonstrate a need for affordable housing, with household income falling within the limits set by HUD for their specific area and family size. Additionally, individuals must adhere to program rules, maintain compliance with lease agreements and promptly report any changes in earnings or family composition

How To Apply for Section 8 Housing in Illinois

To apply for Section 8 in Illinois, an individual should begin by identifying the PHA that oversees the administration of the program in their specific area. The applicant can find the contact information for the relevant PHA on the HUD website or through an online search.

Once the local PHA is identified, the individual should reach out to them to inquire about the application process and the availability of vouchers. They can request an application form from the PHA, and depending on the PHA's procedures, this can be done either online or by picking up a physical application at the PHA office. 

The applicant should then carefully complete the application, ensuring all required information about their household, income and personal details is accurately provided. Finally, they must follow the specific submission instructions provided by the PHA, whether it involves mailing the application, submitting it in person or using an online platform.

Can I transfer my Section 8 Voucher to Illinois?

The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program allows for portability, which means that participants can transfer their voucher to another location, including transferring to or from Illinois. However, there are specific steps and considerations involved in the portability process.

Can I Buy a House with a Section 8 Voucher in Illinois?

Those who use the Section 8 program in Illinois may be able to use their voucher to offset the cost of paying their mortgage after purchasing a home. Whether individuals can purchase a home using a voucher depends on their specific PHA. 

What are the Public Housing Authorities in Illinois?

PHAs administer the Housing Choice Voucher program, which provides rental assistance to eligible low-income individuals and families. This involves issuing vouchers, conducting inspections of rental units and processing payments to landlords on behalf of renters.

HUD Housing Authorities Serving Illinois

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Alexander County Housing Authority

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 158 Units Available in the Alexander County Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Alexander County Housing Authority Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 158 Units Available in the Alexander County Housing Authority. These Low-income ...

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Bureau County Housing Authority

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 322 Units Available in the Bureau County Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Bureau County Housing Authority Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 322 Units Available in the Bureau County Housing Authority. These Low-income Hou...

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Carroll County Housing Authority

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 90 Units Available in the Carroll County Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Carroll County Housing Authority Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 90 Units Available in the Carroll County Housing Authority. These Low-income Hou...

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Chicago Housing Authority

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 73371 Units Available in the Chicago Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Chicago Housing Authority Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 73371 Units Available in the Chicago Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing...

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Clay County Housing Authority

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 187 Units Available in the Clay County Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Clay County Housing Authority Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 187 Units Available in the Clay County Housing Authority. These Low-income Housi...

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Decatur Housing Authority

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 1922 Units Available in the Decatur Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Decatur Housing Authority Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 1922 Units Available in the Decatur Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing ...

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Dewitt County Housing Authority

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 243 Units Available in the Dewitt County Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Dewitt County Housing Authority Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 243 Units Available in the Dewitt County Housing Authority. These Low-income Hou...

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Dupage Housing Authority

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 3178 Units Available in the Dupage Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Dupage Housing Authority Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 3178 Units Available in the Dupage Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing ...

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East Peoria Housing Authority

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 295 Units Available in the East Peoria Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the East Peoria Housing Authority Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 295 Units Available in the East Peoria Housing Authority. These Low-income Housi...

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Edwards County Housing Authority

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 51 Units Available in the Edwards County Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Edwards County Housing Authority Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 51 Units Available in the Edwards County Housing Authority. These Low-income Hou...

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Illinois Waiting List for Section 8 Housing

The waiting list for Section 8 in Illinois can vary by each PHA, as each one manages its own list. The demand for vouchers often exceeds the available funding, leading to waiting lists in many areas. 

Is Emergency Housing Assistance Available in Illinois?

Emergency assistance programs are available in Illinois to help low-income families facing immediate housing crises. These programs are designed to provide temporary relief and support for those experiencing homelessness or imminent homelessness.

Emergency Rental Assistance Serving Illinois

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Champaign County Emergency Rental Assistance Program

Program Type: County

Details: Offers emergency rental assistance, covid relief, utility assistance and more

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Chicago Emergency Rental Assistance Program

Program Type: City

Details: Offers emergency rental assistance, covid relief, utility assistance and more

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Cook County COVID-19 Recovery Rental Assistance

Program Type: County

Details: Offers emergency rental assistance, covid relief, utility assistance and more

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Illinois Rental Payment Program

Program Type: State

Details: Offers emergency rental assistance, covid relief, utility assistance and more

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Lake County Federal Emergency Rental Assistance (FERA)

Program Type: County

Details: Offers emergency rental assistance, covid relief, utility assistance and more

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Madison County Emergency Rental Assistance

Program Type: County

Details: Offers emergency rental assistance, covid relief, utility assistance and more

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McHenry County Emergency Utility and Rental Assistance Program

Program Type: County

Details: Offers emergency rental assistance, covid relief, utility assistance and more

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Winnebago County Emergency Rental Assistance

Program Type: County

Details: Offers emergency rental assistance, covid relief, utility assistance and more

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Section 8 in Illinois is a Resource for Many 

Through Section 8 in Illinois, many families and individuals have access to rentals at an affordable rate. Those applying should make sure they understand the requirements of this program to ensure their success when acquiring a voucher. 

Our resources on Section 8 and other affordable housing programs can help renters learn more about the options available to them.