Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Merrill, Wisconsin
There are 3 open waiting lists in the Merrill area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Merrill, Wisconsin 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 Merrill, 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 Merrill, Wisconsin
Merrill, Wisconsin is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Right now, 3 waiting lists are accepting applications in the Merrill area. There are also 15 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Merrill include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing. Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: HCV (1 open), PBV (1 open), Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Merrill Housing Authority opened its HCV waitlist .
About Housing in Merrill, Wisconsin
For individuals and families seeking affordable housing assistance in Merrill, Wisconsin, the primary resource is the Merrill Housing Authority. This agency manages several programs designed to help eligible residents find stable and affordable housing. Currently, there are 3 open waiting lists available for various housing assistance programs in the Merrill area, with no lists currently closed to new applicants.
The Merrill Housing Authority offers assistance through multiple program types. These include the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, which provides tenant-based rental assistance, and the Project-Based Voucher (PBV) program, where assistance is tied to specific housing units. Additionally, Public Housing options are available, offering affordable rental units directly managed by the authority. To qualify for these programs, applicants must meet specific income guidelines. For example, a family of four in Lincoln County, Wisconsin, would be considered Very Low Income with an annual household income of up to $47,500 for Fiscal Year 2025. Further resources and information about state-level housing initiatives may also be available through the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA).
Housing Authorities in Merrill
How to Apply for Section 8 in Merrill
To apply for housing assistance in Merrill, Wisconsin, submit an application directly to Merrill Housing Authority, the housing authority serving this area. Right now, 3 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 $47,500/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 Merrill 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).
Merrill, Wisconsin Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Merrill, Wisconsin, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Lincoln County, WI area. A family of four must earn less than $47,500 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $95,000.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $19,950 | $33,250 | $53,200 |
| 2 Persons | $22,800 | $38,000 | $60,800 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $42,750 | $68,400 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $47,500 | $76,000 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $51,300 | $82,100 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $55,100 | $88,200 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $58,900 | $94,250 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $62,700 | $100,350 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Merrill 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 Merrill and have active housing programs.