Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Harlan, Kentucky
There is 1 open waiting list in the Harlan area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Harlan, Kentucky 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 Harlan, 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 Harlan, Kentucky
Harlan, Kentucky is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 1 waiting list is accepting applications in the Harlan area. There are also 30 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Harlan include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV). Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Housing Authority of Harlan opened its Public Housing waitlist .
About Housing in Harlan, Kentucky
For individuals and families seeking affordable housing in Harlan, Kentucky, the primary local agency is the Housing Authority of Harlan. This authority manages various housing assistance programs, including Public Housing and the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program. Currently, there is one housing waitlist open and one closed in the area for these programs.
The Housing Authority of Harlan currently has its Public Housing waitlist open for new applications. However, the waitlist for the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program is presently closed. Eligibility for these programs often depends on income; for example, the Very Low Income limit for a family of four in Harlan County, KY, for Fiscal Year 2025 is $35,450 per year. There are approximately 182 assisted housing units across the Harlan area.
To apply, prospective tenants should contact the Housing Authority of Harlan directly for the most current information regarding eligibility, application procedures, and any changes to waitlist statuses. The state housing agency, Kentucky Housing Corporation (KHC), also provides resources. Remember to keep your contact information updated with the housing authority if you submit an application.
Housing Authorities in Harlan
How to Apply for Section 8 in Harlan
To apply for housing assistance in Harlan, Kentucky, submit an application directly to Housing Authority of Harlan, the housing authority serving this area. Right now, 1 waiting list is 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 $35,450/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 Harlan 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).
Harlan, Kentucky Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Harlan, Kentucky, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Harlan County, KY area. A family of four must earn less than $35,450 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $55,500.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $15,650 | $24,850 | $39,700 |
| 2 Persons | $21,150 | $28,400 | $45,400 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $31,950 | $51,050 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $35,450 | $56,700 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $38,300 | $61,250 |
| 6 Persons | $41,150 | $41,150 | $65,800 |
| 7 Persons | $44,000 | $44,000 | $70,350 |
| 8 Persons | $46,800 | $46,800 | $74,850 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Harlan 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 Harlan and have active housing programs.