Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Helena, Montana
There are 12 open waiting lists in the Helena area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 2 housing authorities serving Helena, Montana 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 Helena, 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 Helena, Montana
Helena, Montana is served by 2 housing authorities offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 12 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Helena area. There are also 2 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Helena include Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), VASH. Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: PBV (2 open), Public Housing (2 open), HCV (1 open).
Latest Opening
Montana Department of Commerce opened its other waitlist on Jul 1, 2025.
About Housing in Helena, Montana
Helena, Montana offers various affordable housing options for eligible residents. The area is served by two key housing agencies: the Montana Department of Commerce and the Helena Housing Authority. Combined, there are approximately 5,274 assisted housing units available in the area. Currently, 13 waiting lists are open for new applications, with only one list presently closed.
Programs available to help with housing costs in Helena include Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), and Public Housing. Several Moderate Rehabilitation (Mod Rehab) programs are also offered, alongside other assistance options. For prospective applicants, the Very Low Income limit for a family of four in Lewis and Clark County is $53,500 per year for FY2025, providing a guideline for financial eligibility.
To apply for these programs, it is important to understand the specific requirements for each. You can seek further information on eligibility and the application process directly from the Montana Department of Commerce's Housing Division or the Helena Housing Authority.
Housing Authorities in Helena
Helena Housing Authority
Helena, Montana · MT004
Montana Department of Commerce
Helena, Montana · MT901
How to Apply for Section 8 in Helena
To apply for housing assistance in Helena, Montana, submit an application directly to one of the 2 housing authorities serving the Helena area (listed above). Right now, 12 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 $53,500/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 Helena include Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), other, Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), ModRehab, MOD Rehab, Moderate Rehabilitation (ModRehab), Moderate Rehabilitation, Moderate Rehabilitation Program, Moderate Rehabilitation (MOD Rehab), VASH. 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).
Helena, Montana Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Helena, Montana, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Lewis and Clark County, MT HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $53,500 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $107,000.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $22,500 | $37,450 | $59,950 |
| 2 Persons | $25,700 | $42,800 | $68,500 |
| 3 Persons | $28,900 | $48,150 | $77,050 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $53,500 | $85,600 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $57,800 | $92,450 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $62,100 | $99,300 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $66,350 | $106,150 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $70,650 | $113,000 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Helena 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 Helena and have active housing programs.