Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Chatom, Alabama
There is 1 open waiting list in the Chatom area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Chatom, Alabama and updates statuses nightly. Below you will find every PHA in the area with current waitlist status, program types, and direct application links.
If no lists are currently open in Chatom, we recommend applying to nearby cities as well. There is no limit to the number of waiting lists you can join, and many housing authorities accept applications from non-residents.
Affordable Housing in Chatom, Alabama
Chatom, Alabama is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 1 waiting list is accepting applications in the Chatom area. There are also 2 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Chatom include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV). Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Washington County Housing Authority opened its Public Housing waitlist on Jul 1, 2017.
About Housing in Chatom, Alabama
For individuals and families seeking affordable housing assistance in Chatom, Alabama, the primary provider is the Washington County Housing Authority. This authority manages approximately 30 assisted housing units in the area, indicating a competitive environment for available housing. Understanding the specific programs and application processes is key for potential applicants.
Currently, the Washington County Housing Authority has one housing waitlist open and one closed. The Public Housing program currently has an open waiting list, offering direct rental opportunities in properties owned and managed by the authority. In contrast, the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, which helps eligible low-income families afford housing in the private market, has a closed waiting list at this time. To qualify for these programs, applicants must meet specific income guidelines. For example, a family of four in Washington County, Alabama, must have an annual income no higher than $39,150 to be considered very low income (based on FY2025 limits). The Alabama Housing Finance Authority (AHFA) serves as the state housing agency, overseeing various housing initiatives.
Housing Authorities in Chatom
How to Apply for Section 8 in Chatom
To apply for housing assistance in Chatom, Alabama, submit an application directly to Washington County Housing Authority, the housing authority serving this area. Right now, 1 waiting list is accepting applications — apply as soon as possible, as open enrollment periods can close with short notice. Applications are always free — never pay anyone to apply on your behalf.
Before applying, gather the following documents for all household members: government-issued photo ID, Social Security cards, birth certificates for minors, proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, benefit statements), and proof of current address. For a family of four in this area, income must be below $39,150/year (Very Low Income threshold) to qualify for most programs. Having these ready before a waitlist opens can be the difference between getting on the list and missing the window.
Housing programs available in Chatom include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV). Applying to multiple program types simultaneously improves your chances of receiving assistance. After submitting, you will be placed on the waiting list based on the date of your application and any applicable preferences (veterans, elderly, disabled, working families, or local residents).
Chatom, Alabama Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Chatom, Alabama, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Washington County, AL area. A family of four must earn less than $39,150 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $91,700.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $16,450 | $27,400 | $43,850 |
| 2 Persons | $21,150 | $31,300 | $50,100 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $35,200 | $56,350 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $39,150 | $62,600 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $42,300 | $67,650 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $45,400 | $72,650 |
| 7 Persons | $48,550 | $48,550 | $77,650 |
| 8 Persons | $51,700 | $51,700 | $82,650 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Chatom use these income limits to determine who qualifies for rental assistance. Your total household income before taxes is compared against the limit for your household size.
Very Low Income (50% AMI) — Most Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers and Public Housing programs require your income to be at or below this level. This is the primary eligibility threshold.
Extremely Low Income (30% AMI) — Households at this level often receive priority on waiting lists. By law, housing authorities must allocate a portion of vouchers to extremely low-income families.
Low Income (80% AMI) — Some programs, including Project-Based Vouchers and locally funded initiatives, accept applicants up to this threshold. Contact individual housing authorities below for their specific requirements.
Nearby Cities with Housing Authorities
Applying to nearby cities increases your chances of receiving assistance sooner. These cities are within 75 miles of Chatom and have active housing programs.