Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Merkel, Texas
There is 1 open waiting list in the Merkel area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Merkel, Texas 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 Merkel, 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 Merkel, Texas
Merkel, Texas 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 Merkel area. There are also 15 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Merkel 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 Merkel opened its Public Housing waitlist .
About Housing in Merkel, Texas
For those seeking affordable housing options in Merkel, Texas, assistance is primarily provided by the Housing Authority of Merkel. This authority currently manages one open waiting list for its Public Housing program. While the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program is available in the area, its waiting list is presently closed. Prospective applicants should contact the Housing Authority directly for the most current information regarding program availability and application procedures, as waitlist statuses can change.
Within the Merkel area, there are approximately 47 assisted housing units. Eligibility for these programs is typically based on income and family size. For instance, a family of four applying for Very Low Income housing in the Abilene, TX MSA area, which encompasses Merkel, would generally need an annual income no higher than $43,650, based on Fiscal Year 2025 guidelines. These income limits are established by federal standards and are subject to periodic adjustments.
The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) provides oversight for many housing initiatives across the state. When applying for housing assistance, it is crucial to gather all required documentation and respond promptly to any communications from the Housing Authority of Merkel to ensure your application is processed smoothly. Always verify specific eligibility criteria directly with the Housing Authority.
Housing Authorities in Merkel
How to Apply for Section 8 in Merkel
To apply for housing assistance in Merkel, Texas, submit an application directly to Housing Authority of Merkel, 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 $43,650/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 Merkel 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).
Merkel, Texas Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Merkel, Texas, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Abilene, TX MSA area. A family of four must earn less than $43,650 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $87,300.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $18,350 | $30,600 | $48,900 |
| 2 Persons | $21,150 | $34,950 | $55,900 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $39,300 | $62,900 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $43,650 | $69,850 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $47,150 | $75,450 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $50,650 | $81,050 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $54,150 | $86,650 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $57,650 | $92,250 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Merkel 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 Merkel and have active housing programs.