Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Mena, Arkansas
There is 1 open waiting list in the Mena area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Mena, 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 Mena, 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 Mena, Arkansas
Mena, Arkansas 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 Mena area. There are also 14 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Mena include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV). Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Polk County Housing Authority opened its Public Housing waitlist on Jul 1, 2017.
About Housing in Mena, Arkansas
If you are seeking affordable housing options in Mena, Arkansas, understanding the local resources is key. The area is primarily served by the Polk County Housing Authority, which manages programs designed to assist low-income individuals and families.
Currently, the Polk County Housing Authority has one waiting list open for its Public Housing program. The waiting list for the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program is presently closed. Prospective applicants should contact the Polk County Housing Authority directly for precise application instructions and to confirm current waitlist statuses, as these can change. There are approximately 311 assisted housing units available across the area.
Eligibility for these programs depends on various factors, including income. For instance, the Very Low Income limit for a family of four in the Polk County, AR area is $33,550 per year for Fiscal Year 2025. This threshold helps determine who qualifies for assistance. The state housing agency overseeing these efforts is the Arkansas Development Finance Authority (ADFA). When applying, always ensure all required documentation is complete and submit applications promptly to avoid missing important deadlines.
Housing Authorities in Mena
How to Apply for Section 8 in Mena
To apply for housing assistance in Mena, Arkansas, submit an application directly to Polk 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 $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 Mena 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).
Mena, Arkansas Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Mena, Arkansas, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Polk 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 $66,200.
| 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 Mena 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 Mena and have active housing programs.