Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Dekalb, Illinois
There are 2 open waiting lists in the Dekalb area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Dekalb, 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 Dekalb, 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 Dekalb, Illinois
Dekalb, Illinois 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 Dekalb area. There are also 27 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Dekalb include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV). Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: HCV (1 open), Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Housing Authority Of The County Of DeKalb opened its HCV waitlist .
About Housing in Dekalb, Illinois
For individuals and families seeking affordable housing assistance in DeKalb, Illinois, services are primarily provided by the Housing Authority Of The County Of DeKalb. This authority currently manages approximately 886 assisted housing units across the area. As of now, two waiting lists are open for new applications, while one is closed.
Currently, the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, which helps eligible families afford housing in the private market, has an open waiting list. The Public Housing program, offering affordable rental units directly managed by the authority, also has an open waiting list. The Project-Based Voucher (PBV) program currently has no open lists. To qualify for many programs, household income must meet specific limits; for example, a family of four considered Very Low Income in the DeKalb County, IL HUD Metro FMR Area must have an annual income no higher than $50,550 for FY2025. Applicants are encouraged to prepare necessary documentation and inquire directly with the Housing Authority Of The County Of DeKalb for specific application details. The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) also serves as the state housing agency, overseeing various housing initiatives.
Housing Authorities in Dekalb
How to Apply for Section 8 in Dekalb
To apply for housing assistance in Dekalb, Illinois, submit an application directly to Housing Authority Of The County Of DeKalb, 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 $50,550/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 Dekalb include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV). 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).
Dekalb, Illinois Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Dekalb, Illinois, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the DeKalb County, IL HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $50,550 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $101,300.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $21,250 | $35,400 | $56,650 |
| 2 Persons | $24,300 | $40,450 | $64,750 |
| 3 Persons | $27,350 | $45,500 | $72,850 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $50,550 | $80,900 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $54,600 | $87,400 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $58,650 | $93,850 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $62,700 | $100,350 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $66,750 | $106,800 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Dekalb 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 Dekalb and have active housing programs.