Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Fort Wayne, Indiana
There are 5 open waiting lists in the Fort Wayne area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 2 housing authorities serving Fort Wayne, Indiana 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 Fort Wayne, 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 Fort Wayne, Indiana
Fort Wayne, Indiana is served by 2 housing authorities offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 5 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Fort Wayne area. There are also 7 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Fort Wayne include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Mainstream, RAD. Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: HCV (2 open), Public Housing (2 open), PBV (1 open).
Latest Opening
Fort Wayne Housing Authority opened its PBV waitlist on Dec 1, 2024.
About Housing in Fort Wayne, Indiana
Fort Wayne, Indiana offers various affordable housing options for eligible residents, primarily administered by two housing authorities: the Fort Wayne Housing Authority and the Housing Authority of the City of Decatur. These agencies manage approximately 4,171 assisted housing units in the area. Currently, there are 5 open waiting lists for housing assistance programs, with 2 lists currently closed.
Programs available in Fort Wayne include Housing Choice Voucher (HCV), Public Housing, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Mainstream Vouchers, and Rental Assistance Demonstration (RAD). Specifically, two HCV lists are currently open, along with two Public Housing lists and one PBV list. Mainstream and RAD programs do not currently have open waiting lists. To qualify for assistance, households must meet specific income guidelines established by HUD. For instance, a family of four considered Very Low Income in the Fort Wayne, IN HUD Metro FMR Area would have an annual income limit of approximately $45,000 as of FY2025. The Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA) also supports affordable housing initiatives statewide. It is important to contact the housing authorities directly for the most accurate and up-to-date application information.
How to Apply for Section 8 in Fort Wayne
To apply for housing assistance in Fort Wayne, Indiana, submit an application directly to one of the 2 housing authorities serving the Fort Wayne area (listed above). Right now, 5 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 $45,000/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 Fort Wayne include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), RAD, Mainstream. 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).
Fort Wayne, Indiana Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Fort Wayne, Indiana, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Fort Wayne, IN HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $45,000 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $90,000.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $18,900 | $31,500 | $50,400 |
| 2 Persons | $21,600 | $36,000 | $57,600 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $40,500 | $64,800 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $45,000 | $72,000 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $48,600 | $77,800 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $52,200 | $83,550 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $55,800 | $89,300 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $59,400 | $95,050 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Fort Wayne 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 Fort Wayne and have active housing programs.