Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Bessemer, Michigan
All waiting lists in Bessemer are currently closed. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Bessemer, 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 Bessemer, 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 Bessemer, Michigan
Bessemer, Michigan is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Currently, all waitlists in Bessemer are closed. Openings can happen with as little as 48 hours notice, so monitoring is critical. There are also 18 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Bessemer include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing.
Open Lists Nearby
While no waitlists are open in Bessemer right now, there are 18 open lists within 50 miles. Most housing authorities accept applications from non-residents, so applying in neighboring cities is a practical strategy. Scroll down to "Nearby Cities" below for options.
About Housing in Bessemer, Michigan
Affordable housing assistance in Bessemer, Michigan is primarily administered by the Bessemer Housing Commission. This agency manages two key programs designed to help low-income residents: the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program and the Public Housing program. While there is one list for each program, currently both the HCV and Public Housing waiting lists are closed to new applicants. In total, the Bessemer area has approximately 90 assisted housing units.
To qualify for these vital programs, income limits are a significant factor. For example, the Very Low Income limit for a family of four in Gogebic County for Fiscal Year 2025 is $40,950 per year. Since both waiting lists are currently closed, individuals seeking housing assistance in Bessemer should regularly contact the Bessemer Housing Commission directly for updates on when application periods might reopen. The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) also serves as the state's housing agency and can provide broader resources and information on housing opportunities throughout Michigan.
Housing Authorities in Bessemer
How to Apply for Section 8 in Bessemer
To apply for housing assistance in Bessemer, Michigan, submit an application directly to Bessemer Housing Commission, the housing authority serving this area. All waitlists are currently closed, but openings happen with as little as 48 hours 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 $40,950/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 Bessemer 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).
Bessemer, Michigan Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Bessemer, Michigan, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Gogebic County, MI area. A family of four must earn less than $40,950 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $73,400.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $17,200 | $28,700 | $45,850 |
| 2 Persons | $21,150 | $32,800 | $52,400 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $36,900 | $58,950 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $40,950 | $65,500 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $44,250 | $70,750 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $47,550 | $76,000 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $50,800 | $81,250 |
| 8 Persons | $54,100 | $54,100 | $86,500 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Bessemer 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 Bessemer and have active housing programs.