Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Olney, Illinois
There are 2 open waiting lists in the Olney area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Olney, 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 Olney, 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 Olney, Illinois
Olney, 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 Olney area. There are also 14 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Olney include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing. Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: HCV (1 open), Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Housing Authority of the County of Richland opened its HCV waitlist .
About Housing in Olney, Illinois
Olney, Illinois offers affordable housing options primarily through the Housing Authority of the County of Richland. The area has approximately 200 assisted housing units, and this authority currently has two open waiting lists for individuals and families seeking housing assistance. These lists are for the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program and the Public Housing program.
Applicants must meet specific income eligibility requirements. For example, the Very Low Income limit for a family of four in Richland County is $43,300 per year for Fiscal Year 2025. These income limits are subject to change and vary based on household size, so it is crucial to verify current figures directly with the Housing Authority of the County of Richland.
To apply for either the HCV or Public Housing program, prospective tenants should contact the Housing Authority directly to obtain application forms and understand their specific processes. It is advisable to apply promptly when lists are open and keep your contact information updated to ensure you receive important notifications. The Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) also serves as a state-level resource for housing initiatives.
Housing Authorities in Olney
How to Apply for Section 8 in Olney
To apply for housing assistance in Olney, Illinois, submit an application directly to Housing Authority of the County of Richland, 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 $43,300/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 Olney include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing. 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).
Olney, Illinois Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Olney, Illinois, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Richland County, IL area. A family of four must earn less than $43,300 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $84,900.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $18,200 | $30,350 | $48,550 |
| 2 Persons | $21,150 | $34,650 | $55,450 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $39,000 | $62,400 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $43,300 | $69,300 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $46,800 | $74,850 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $50,250 | $80,400 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $53,700 | $85,950 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $57,200 | $91,500 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Olney 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 Olney and have active housing programs.