Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Fort Madison, Iowa
There are 2 open waiting lists in the Fort Madison area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Fort Madison, Iowa 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 Madison, 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 Madison, Iowa
Fort Madison, Iowa 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 Fort Madison area. There are also 10 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Fort Madison 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
Fort Madison Housing Authority opened its Public Housing waitlist .
About Housing in Fort Madison, Iowa
If you are seeking affordable housing options in Fort Madison, Iowa, the primary resource is the Fort Madison Housing Authority. This authority currently manages two open waiting lists for housing assistance programs. Available programs include the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, which has one open list, and the Public Housing program, also with one open list. There are approximately 207 assisted housing units available in the Fort Madison area, serving individuals and families in need.
Eligibility for these programs depends on factors such as income and family size. For example, the Very Low Income limit for a family of four in the Lee County area is $46,000 per year, based on Fiscal Year 2025 guidelines. Applicants should contact the Fort Madison Housing Authority directly to inquire about specific eligibility criteria, application processes, and current waiting list statuses.
The Iowa Finance Authority (IFA) serves as the state housing agency and can offer additional information on housing resources throughout Iowa. When applying, it is crucial to provide accurate and complete information and to keep your contact details updated with the housing authority to ensure timely communication regarding your application status.
Housing Authorities in Fort Madison
How to Apply for Section 8 in Fort Madison
To apply for housing assistance in Fort Madison, Iowa, submit an application directly to Fort Madison Housing Authority, 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 $46,000/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 Madison 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).
Fort Madison, Iowa Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Fort Madison, Iowa, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Lee County, IA area. A family of four must earn less than $46,000 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $84,200.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $19,350 | $32,200 | $51,550 |
| 2 Persons | $22,100 | $36,800 | $58,900 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $41,400 | $66,250 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $46,000 | $73,600 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $49,700 | $79,500 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $53,400 | $85,400 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $57,050 | $91,300 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $60,750 | $97,200 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Fort Madison 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 Madison and have active housing programs.