Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Chester, Illinois
All waiting lists in Chester are currently closed. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Chester, Illinois 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 Chester, 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 Chester, Illinois
Chester, Illinois is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Currently, all waitlists in Chester are closed. Openings can happen with as little as 48 hours notice, so monitoring is critical. There are also 10 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Chester include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing.
Open Lists Nearby
While no waitlists are open in Chester right now, there are 10 open lists within 50 miles. Most housing authorities accept applications from non-residents, so applying in neighboring cities is a practical strategy. Scroll down to "Nearby Cities" below for options.
About Housing in Chester, Illinois
For individuals and families seeking affordable housing assistance in Chester, Illinois, services are primarily administered by the Randolph County Housing Authority. This authority manages both Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) and Public Housing programs. Currently, both the HCV and Public Housing waiting lists are closed to new applications, with no open lists available in the area.
The Randolph County area has approximately 275 assisted housing units in total. Eligibility for these programs typically depends on household size and income. For instance, a family of four in Randolph County is generally considered "Very Low Income" if their annual household income is at or below $47,050, based on FY2025 guidelines.
Potential applicants are encouraged to regularly check directly with the Randolph County Housing Authority for updates on when waiting lists may reopen. While the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) serves as the state's housing finance agency, direct inquiries for local housing assistance programs in Chester should be made to the Randolph County Housing Authority. Staying informed about application periods and eligibility requirements is key for those seeking assistance.
Housing Authorities in Chester
How to Apply for Section 8 in Chester
To apply for housing assistance in Chester, Illinois, submit an application directly to Randolph County Housing Authority, the housing authority serving this area. All waitlists are currently closed, but openings happen with as little as 48 hours 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 $47,050/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 Chester 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).
Chester, Illinois Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Chester, Illinois, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Randolph County, IL area. A family of four must earn less than $47,050 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $96,500.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $19,800 | $32,950 | $52,750 |
| 2 Persons | $22,600 | $37,650 | $60,250 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $42,350 | $67,800 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $47,050 | $75,300 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $50,800 | $81,350 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $54,600 | $87,350 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $58,350 | $93,400 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $62,150 | $99,400 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Chester 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 Chester and have active housing programs.