The Montana Guide to Section 8 Housing

For many low-income families and individuals in Montana, finding affordable housing can be a challenge.

Section 8 in Montana

, also known as the Housing Choice Voucher Program, offers financial assistance to bridge the gap between income and rent. If you’re struggling to afford a decent place to live, Section 8 could be the solution you need.

What Is Section 8 Housing in Montana?

Section 8 Housing in Montana is a federally funded rental assistance program managed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). It is administered locally through Montana Housing field offices and Public Housing Authorities (PHAs).

This program helps low-income households afford safe and clean housing by subsidizing a portion of their rent. Once approved, tenants pay about 30% of their adjusted monthly income toward rent, and Section 8 covers the rest by paying the landlord directly.

What Is the Most Section 8 Will Pay in Montana?

The maximum Section 8 will pay for housing in Montana depends on HUD’s annually updated Fair Market Rents (FMRs), which vary by location. Factors include the local cost of living and the size of the rental unit.

Here’s how payments are calculated:

• Tenants contribute 30% of their adjusted income toward rent.
• Montana’s Section 8 covers the remaining balance.

Locations across the state have different fair market rents and cost-of-living amounts. Your local PHA can tell you what maximum payments might be in your area for the current year.

What Are the Montana Section 8 Housing Requirements?

In return for the program’s financial help, you have to follow Montana’s Section 8 rules, such as:

• Income Limits: Your household income must fall below the HUD-determined threshold for your area and household size.
• Residency and Citizenship: Applicants must be U.S. citizens or eligible noncitizens.
• Background Check: Adult members of the household must pass a background check, which includes reviews for criminal activity and rental history.
• Rental History: Applicants should have a favorable rental history with no recent evictions or lease violations.

Your PHA will inspect your preferred home before you move in to be sure it meets HUD Housing Quality Standards. Once approved, voucher holders must comply with Montana Section 8 program requirements.

What Are the Income Limits for Housing Assistance Programs in Montana?

HUD adjusts income limits annually based on the local Area Median Income (AMI). These limits depend on household size and the cost of living in your region. To qualify for Section 8 in Montana, you can’t earn more than a specific amount for your household size in your location.  

How Long Does It Take to Get Approved for Section 8 in Montana?

After you apply for Section 8, it might take weeks or months for your PHA to finish evaluating your application. The timeline for approval varies depending on demand and the number of applications submitted to your local PHA. Generally:

1. Application Review: After submitting your application, it may take several weeks to process.
2. Verification: The PHA verifies income, household size, and other eligibility factors.
3. Waiting List: If funding is limited, your application may be added to a waiting list, which can take several months or even years to clear.

How To Qualify for Section 8 in Montana

Before you apply for Montana’s Section 8 program, look over your local PHA’s rules.

• Check Income Limits: Verify that your household income falls below the threshold for your area.

• Gather Documentation: Collect proof of income, identity, and household composition, such as:

  • Pay stubs and tax returns.

  • Social Security numbers for all household members.

  • Rental history and landlord references.

• Pass Background Checks: Ensure that all adult household members meet criminal and rental history requirements.

Qualification considers who lives with you and your relationship to them. To ensure your household is eligible, commit to following Montana’s Section 8 regulations, including maintaining a clean rental unit and reporting changes to the PHA.

How To Apply for Section 8 Housing in Montana

Applying for Section 8 in Montana begins with contacting your local PHA. Here’s how the process works:

1. Locate Your PHA: Find the PHA that administers Section 8 in your area. Check their website or call to confirm if the waitlist is open.
2. Submit an Application: Complete the application online, in person, or by mail. Provide all requested documentation.
3. Attend an Interview: Be available for interviews or meetings to discuss your eligibility.
4. Wait for Processing: If approved, you may be placed on a waiting list until a voucher becomes available.

Be available for interviews, meetings, or classes. Your PHA will let you know if you qualify. Keep in mind that waiting lists are common. Once you receive a voucher, the PHA will perform a final eligibility assessment and inspect your chosen rental property.

Can I Transfer My Section 8 Voucher to Montana?

Yes, Section 8 vouchers are portable, meaning you can use them to relocate to Montana. Local PHAs in Montana have portability rules. Find out what they are well before you plan to relocate.

You’ll need to contact the PHAs in your current location and in the area where you plan to move. Provide the necessary paperwork to both PHAs to complete the transfer. If you meet the requirements, you can transfer your voucher to Montana. Keep in mind that rental costs and payment standards may vary in your new location.

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

While Montana’s Section 8 vouchers primarily assist with rent, the state also offers other housing programs to help low-income households transition to homeownership. The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Homeownership Program provides guidance, financial support, and education for qualifying participants.

To qualify, you must:

• Have participated in Section 8 for at least one year.
• Be a first-time homebuyer.
• Meet employment and income requirements (unless elderly or disabled).
• Complete a HUD-approved homebuyer counseling program.

You will need to qualify for these programs and understand that each may have different requirements.

What Are the Public Housing Authorities in Montana?

Overseen by the Montana Department of Commerce, Montana Housing field agencies deal with housing needs across the state. These local offices can help with all Section 8 inquiries in Montana. They also:

• Administer Section 8 programs, including processing and evaluation applications
• Maintain a waiting list
• Verify that Section 8 tenants and landlords meet their obligations
• Inspect homes

HUD Housing Authorities Serving Montana

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City of Ronan Housing Authority

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 36 Units Available in the City of Ronan Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the City of Ronan Housing Authority Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 36 Units Available in the City of Ronan Housing Authority. These Low-income Hous...

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Dawson County Housing Authority

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 20 Units Available in the Dawson County Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Dawson County Housing Authority Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 20 Units Available in the Dawson County Housing Authority. These Low-income Hous...

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Great Falls Housing Authority

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 754 Units Available in the Great Falls Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Great Falls Housing Authority Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 754 Units Available in the Great Falls Housing Authority. These Low-income Housi...

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Helena Housing Authority

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 752 Units Available in the Helena Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Helena Housing Authority Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 752 Units Available in the Helena Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Un...

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Housing Authority of Billings

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 1030 Units Available in the Housing Authority of Billings. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Housing Authority of Billings Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 1030 Units Available in the Housing Authority of Billings. These Low-income Hous...

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Housing Authority of Butte

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 390 Units Available in the Housing Authority of Butte. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Housing Authority of Butte Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 390 Units Available in the Housing Authority of Butte. These Low-income Housing ...

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Housing Authority of Glasgow

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 60 Units Available in the Housing Authority of Glasgow. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Housing Authority of Glasgow Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 60 Units Available in the Housing Authority of Glasgow. These Low-income Housing...

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Housing Authority of the City of Anaconda

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 169 Units Available in the Housing Authority of the City of Anaconda. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Housing Authority of the City of Anaconda Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 169 Units Available in the Housing Authority of the City of Anaconda. These Low-...

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Missoula Housing Authority

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 1064 Units Available in the Missoula Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Missoula Housing Authority Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 1064 Units Available in the Missoula Housing Authority. These Low-income Housing...

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Montana Department of Commerce

Housing Authority

There Are Currently 4347 Units Available in the Montana Department of Commerce. These Low-income Housing Units Consist of Section 8, Public Housing, and Low-income Housing Tax Credit Properties. the Montana Department of Commerce Serves the , Metropolitan Area.

There Are Currently 4347 Units Available in the Montana Department of Commerce. These Low-income Hou...

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Montana Waiting List for Section 8 Housing

Due to high demand, waitlists for Section 8 in Montana can vary in length. Unlike some states, Montana typically operates on a first-come, first-served basis without preference points. This means your position on the list depends on when you submit your application.

Wait times range from a few months to several years, depending on the availability of funding and vouchers. Remember, unlike many other states, Montana applicants are not placed in line based on need or preference. This means submitting an application promptly, and ensuring it’s correct, is key for getting on the waiting list.

Is Emergency Housing Assistance Available in Montana?

Montana offers various emergency housing programs, including:

• Eviction Prevention: Short-term financial aid for rent or utilities.
• Emergency Shelters: Temporary accommodations for those experiencing homelessness.
• Transitional Housing: Programs that provide support while families move toward long-term stability.

Check with local nonprofits, community action agencies, or your PHA for specific resources in your area.

Emergency Rental Assistance Serving Montana

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Montana Emergency Rental Assistance

Program Type: State

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

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Section 8 Updates in Montana

With preparation and persistence, Section 8 in Montana can help you achieve affordable, safe housing for your family. Section 8 wait list statuses can change frequently, and applicants need to be aware of anything that affects them. 

HUDHousingNetwork can help you stay informed, whether you prefer to browse the site or sign up for alerts