If you are struggling to afford rent in Illinois, the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program may be able to help. This federal program, administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), provides rental assistance to low-income families, seniors, and people with disabilities. In Illinois, the program is managed locally by Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) spread across the state. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about how to apply for Section 8 in Illinois, including income limits, required documents, and tips for navigating the waiting list.
What Is the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program?
The Housing Choice Voucher Program, commonly called Section 8, helps eligible families pay for safe, decent housing in the private rental market. Once approved, you receive a voucher that covers a portion of your monthly rent. You typically pay about 30% to 40% of your adjusted monthly income toward rent, and the voucher covers the rest, up to a local payment standard set by your housing authority.
One major advantage of Section 8 vouchers is portability. If you receive a voucher from one housing authority in Illinois, you can generally use it to rent a qualifying unit in another area, even in a different state.
Who Is Eligible for Section 8 in Illinois?
Eligibility for Section 8 in Illinois is based on several factors:
- Income level: Your household income must generally fall at or below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for your county. By law, housing authorities must also provide at least 75% of new vouchers to families earning 30% or less of AMI (considered "extremely low income").
- Family status: The program serves families, elderly individuals (age 62 and older), and people with disabilities. Single individuals may also qualify.
- Citizenship or immigration status: At least one household member must be a U.S. citizen or have eligible immigration status.
- Background: Housing authorities may deny assistance based on certain criminal history or prior evictions from federally assisted housing.
Section 8 Income Limits in Illinois
Income limits vary by county because they are based on the Area Median Income for each metropolitan area. Below are approximate income limits for some of the largest areas in Illinois. These figures are updated annually by HUD, typically in the spring.
Approximate Annual Income Limits by Household Size (50% AMI)
| Household Size | Chicago Metro Area | Springfield Area | Peoria Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | ~$38,000 | ~$30,000 | ~$28,000 |
| 2 Persons | ~$43,400 | ~$34,300 | ~$32,000 |
| 3 Persons | ~$48,850 | ~$38,600 | ~$36,000 |
| 4 Persons | ~$54,250 | ~$42,850 | ~$40,000 |
| 5 Persons | ~$58,600 | ~$46,300 | ~$43,200 |
| 6 Persons | ~$62,950 | ~$49,700 | ~$46,400 |
Note: These are approximate figures based on recent HUD data. Exact limits change each year. Check with your local PHA or visit the HUD income limits page for the most current numbers.
Extremely Low Income Limits (30% AMI)
Families at 30% of AMI or below receive priority for new vouchers. For a family of four in the Chicago metro area, this is roughly $32,550 per year. In downstate areas, the threshold is typically lower.
How to Apply for Section 8 in Illinois: Step by Step
Step 1: Find Your Local Public Housing Authority
Section 8 applications are handled by individual PHAs, not by a single statewide office. Illinois has dozens of housing authorities. To find the one serving your area, use the HUD PHA contact search tool at https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts.
Here are some of the largest PHAs in Illinois:
| Housing Authority | Service Area | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) | City of Chicago | thecha.org |
| Housing Authority of Cook County (HACC) | Suburban Cook County | thehacc.org |
| Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) | Statewide programs | ihda.org |
| Springfield Housing Authority | Springfield area | sha1.org |
| Rockford Housing Authority | Rockford area | rockfordha.org |
Step 2: Check if the Waiting List Is Open
Most Illinois PHAs have long waiting lists for Section 8 vouchers, and many only accept new applications during limited windows. Some waiting lists may be closed for months or even years at a time. Before applying, contact your local PHA or check their website to confirm whether the waiting list is currently open.
Pro tip: Apply to multiple PHAs if you are willing to live in different areas. Each PHA maintains its own waiting list, so applying to several can improve your chances.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
When a waiting list opens, you will need to submit an application. Depending on the PHA, you may be able to apply:
- Online through the PHA's website or a portal like RENTCafe
- In person at the PHA office
- By mail using a paper application
The application will ask for basic information about your household, including names, dates of birth, Social Security numbers, income sources, and current housing situation.
Step 4: Gather Required Documents
Once your application is submitted and you move up the waiting list, the PHA will contact you to verify your eligibility. Be prepared to provide:
- Proof of identity: Government-issued photo ID for all adult household members
- Social Security cards for all household members
- Birth certificates for all household members
- Proof of income: Pay stubs, tax returns, Social Security award letters, pension statements, or other documentation of all income sources
- Bank statements showing assets and savings
- Proof of citizenship or eligible immigration status
- Rental history: Names and contact information for current and previous landlords
- Criminal background consent forms (the PHA will run background checks)
Step 5: Attend Your Eligibility Interview
After your documents are reviewed, the PHA will schedule an eligibility interview. During this meeting, a caseworker will:
- Verify your household composition and income
- Explain the program rules and your responsibilities
- Answer questions about finding housing with your voucher
- Provide a briefing on the voucher process
Step 6: Receive Your Voucher and Find Housing
If you are approved, you will receive a Housing Choice Voucher. You then have a set period of time, typically 60 to 120 days depending on the PHA, to find a rental unit that:
- Meets HUD Housing Quality Standards (HQS)
- Has a landlord willing to participate in the program
- Falls within the PHA's payment standard for your area
The PHA will inspect the unit before approving the lease. Once everything is approved, you sign your lease and begin receiving rental assistance.
Tips for Navigating the Section 8 Waiting List
Waiting lists in Illinois can be extremely long. In the Chicago area, wait times of several years are common. Here are some strategies:
- Apply to multiple housing authorities. You are not limited to one PHA. Cast a wide net.
- Keep your contact information updated. If the PHA cannot reach you, you may lose your place on the list.
- Respond promptly to all correspondence. Missing a deadline or appointment can result in removal from the waiting list.
- Check for preference categories. Many PHAs give priority to veterans, people experiencing homelessness, families with children, elderly applicants, or people with disabilities. Ask your PHA what preferences apply.
- Consider smaller or rural PHAs. Waiting lists in less populated areas tend to be shorter.
- Look into other housing programs while you wait, such as public housing, Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) properties, or state programs through the Illinois Housing Development Authority.
What Happens After You Get a Section 8 Voucher?
Once you have a voucher, you are responsible for finding a qualifying rental unit. Here is what to expect:
- Search for housing within the PHA's jurisdiction or request a portability transfer to another area.
- Negotiate with landlords. Not all landlords accept Section 8 vouchers. In Illinois, some local ordinances prohibit discrimination against voucher holders, but this varies by municipality.
- Request a unit inspection. The PHA must inspect and approve the unit before you move in.
- Sign your lease. The PHA, you, and the landlord all sign a Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) contract.
- Pay your portion of rent. Your share is typically 30% to 40% of your adjusted monthly income.
- Recertify annually. You must report income changes and recertify your eligibility each year.
Other Housing Assistance Programs in Illinois
If Section 8 waiting lists are closed or too long, consider these alternatives:
- Public Housing: Managed by local PHAs, these are government-owned rental units. Apply through the same PHA offices.
- IHDA Programs: The Illinois Housing Development Authority offers rental assistance, down payment help, and affordable housing resources. Visit ihda.org.
- LIHEAP: If you need help paying utility bills, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program can help. Apply at helpillinoisfamilies.com.
- Emergency Rental Assistance: Check with local community action agencies for emergency help. Find agencies at the DCEO website.
Not sure which benefits you qualify for? Use our free benefits screener to check your eligibility for Section 8 and dozens of other assistance programs in minutes. You can also explore the Illinois Benefits Overview for a complete guide to available programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Section 8 waiting list in Illinois?
Wait times vary significantly by location. In the Chicago area, waiting lists can stretch to several years. Smaller housing authorities in downstate Illinois may have shorter wait times, sometimes under a year. Contact your local PHA for current estimates.
Can I apply for Section 8 in multiple cities in Illinois?
Yes. Each PHA maintains its own waiting list, and you can apply to as many as you want. Applying to multiple housing authorities increases your chances of receiving a voucher sooner.
What happens if my income changes while I am on the waiting list?
You should report significant changes to the PHA, but minor fluctuations typically do not affect your place on the list. Your income will be verified again when you reach the top of the list and go through the eligibility process.
Can I use a Section 8 voucher anywhere in Illinois?
Yes. Section 8 vouchers are portable, meaning you can use them in any area where there is a participating PHA. You can even transfer your voucher to another state, though the process requires coordination between housing authorities.
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to apply for Section 8?
At least one member of your household must be a U.S. citizen or have eligible immigration status. Mixed-status families may receive prorated assistance.
What if my Section 8 application is denied?
If your application is denied, the PHA must provide you with a written notice explaining the reason. You have the right to request an informal hearing to appeal the decision. Common reasons for denial include income above the limit, criminal history, or prior evictions from federally assisted housing.
Can I own a home and receive Section 8?
In some cases, yes. The Housing Choice Voucher program has a homeownership option that allows eligible families to use their voucher toward mortgage payments instead of rent. Not all PHAs offer this option, so check with your local authority.
Take the Next Step
Applying for Section 8 in Illinois takes patience, but the rental assistance it provides can make a significant difference for your family. Start by identifying your local PHA, checking whether the waiting list is open, and gathering your documents. In the meantime, explore other assistance programs that may help with housing, food, healthcare, and more.
Use our free benefits screener to see all the programs you may qualify for in Illinois, or visit the Illinois Benefits Overview page for a comprehensive look at available assistance.
