Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Helena, Arkansas
There are 2 open waiting lists in the Helena area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Helena, Arkansas 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 Helena, 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 Helena, Arkansas
Helena, Arkansas is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 2 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Helena area. There are also 21 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Helena include Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV). Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: PBV (1 open), Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Phillips County Public Housing Agency opened its PBV waitlist on Jan 15, 2025.
About Housing in Helena, Arkansas
For those seeking affordable housing assistance in Helena, Arkansas, the area is primarily served by the Phillips County Public Housing Agency. This agency manages approximately 407 assisted housing units across the region. Currently, the Public Housing program administered by the Phillips County Public Housing Agency has an open waiting list, offering an opportunity for eligible families and individuals to apply for housing support. Please note that the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program waitlist is currently closed.
Prospective applicants should be aware of income requirements. For instance, a family of four considered very low-income in the Phillips County area for FY2025 must have an annual household income at or below $33,550. These limits can vary based on family size and specific program. It is crucial to contact the Phillips County Public Housing Agency directly for the most current eligibility criteria and application instructions. Additionally, the Arkansas Development Finance Authority (ADFA) serves as a state-level resource for housing assistance information across Arkansas. Always submit a complete and accurate application when a waitlist is open.
Housing Authorities in Helena
How to Apply for Section 8 in Helena
To apply for housing assistance in Helena, Arkansas, submit an application directly to Phillips County Public Housing Agency, the housing authority serving this area. Right now, 2 waiting lists are 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 $33,550/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 Helena include Public Housing, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), 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).
Helena, Arkansas Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Helena, Arkansas, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Phillips County, AR area. A family of four must earn less than $33,550 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $54,500.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $15,650 | $23,500 | $37,600 |
| 2 Persons | $21,150 | $26,850 | $43,000 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $30,200 | $48,350 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $33,550 | $53,700 |
| 5 Persons | $36,250 | $36,250 | $58,000 |
| 6 Persons | $38,950 | $38,950 | $62,300 |
| 7 Persons | $41,650 | $41,650 | $66,600 |
| 8 Persons | $44,300 | $44,300 | $70,900 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Helena 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 Helena and have active housing programs.