Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Benton Harbor, Michigan
There is 1 open waiting list in the Benton Harbor area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 2 housing authorities serving Benton Harbor, Michigan 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 Benton Harbor, 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 Benton Harbor, Michigan
Benton Harbor, Michigan is served by 2 housing authorities offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 1 waiting list is accepting applications in the Benton Harbor area. There are also 9 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Benton Harbor include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV). Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Benton Township Housing Commission opened its Public Housing waitlist .
About Housing in Benton Harbor, Michigan
Benton Harbor, Michigan, provides affordable housing assistance primarily through two local agencies: the Benton Harbor Housing Commission and the Benton Township Housing Commission. These commissions manage various programs, including Housing Choice Voucher (HCV), Public Housing, and Project-Based Voucher (PBV) options. Currently, there is one open waiting list for housing assistance in the area, specifically for Public Housing programs, while four other lists, including all HCV and PBV programs, are closed. Approximately 978 assisted housing units are available across the area, indicating the scope of support for residents seeking affordable options.
To be eligible for many of these programs, applicants must meet specific income criteria. For example, the Very Low Income limit for a family of four in the Niles, MI MSA area is set at $43,600 per year for Fiscal Year 2025. Your household income must be at or below this amount to qualify for many programs. It is essential for those seeking assistance to directly contact the Benton Harbor Housing Commission and the Benton Township Housing Commission to inquire about their specific eligibility requirements, application processes, and to stay updated on waitlist openings. The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) also provides state-level resources and programs for affordable housing.
How to Apply for Section 8 in Benton Harbor
To apply for housing assistance in Benton Harbor, Michigan, submit an application directly to one of the 2 housing authorities serving the Benton Harbor area (listed above). 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 $43,600/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 Benton Harbor include Public Housing, Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), 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).
Benton Harbor, Michigan Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Benton Harbor, Michigan, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Niles, MI MSA area. A family of four must earn less than $43,600 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $87,200.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $18,350 | $30,550 | $48,850 |
| 2 Persons | $21,150 | $34,900 | $55,800 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $39,250 | $62,800 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $43,600 | $69,750 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $47,100 | $75,350 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $50,600 | $80,950 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $54,100 | $86,500 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $57,600 | $92,100 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Benton Harbor 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 Benton Harbor and have active housing programs.