Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Shell Lake, Wisconsin
All waiting lists in Shell Lake are currently closed. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Shell Lake, 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 Shell Lake, 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 Shell Lake, Wisconsin
Shell Lake, Wisconsin is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Currently, all waitlists in Shell Lake are closed. Openings can happen with as little as 48 hours notice, so monitoring is critical. There are also 32 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Shell Lake include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing.
Open Lists Nearby
While no waitlists are open in Shell Lake right now, there are 32 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 Shell Lake, Wisconsin
Affordable housing assistance in Shell Lake, Wisconsin is primarily managed by the Housing Authority of the City of Shell Lake. This authority serves individuals and families seeking housing support through various programs, including the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program and the Public Housing program. Currently, there are no waiting lists open for any housing assistance programs in Shell Lake; both the HCV program and Public Housing program have closed waiting lists.
The Housing Authority of the City of Shell Lake manages one list for the HCV program and one for the Public Housing program, neither of which are presently accepting applications. Across Shell Lake, there are approximately 30 assisted housing units available. Eligibility for these programs typically depends on income. For a family of four in the Washburn County, WI area, the Very Low Income limit for Fiscal Year 2025 is $46,400 per year. The Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) also plays a role in state-level housing initiatives.
Prospective applicants for housing assistance in Shell Lake should regularly check with the Housing Authority of the City of Shell Lake for updates on when waiting lists may reopen. Due to the current status of all lists being closed, direct application is not possible at this time. It is advisable to be prepared with necessary documentation once lists become available again.
Housing Authorities in Shell Lake
How to Apply for Section 8 in Shell Lake
To apply for housing assistance in Shell Lake, Wisconsin, submit an application directly to Housing Authority of the City of Shell Lake, 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 $46,400/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 Shell Lake 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).
Shell Lake, Wisconsin Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Shell Lake, Wisconsin, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Washburn County, WI area. A family of four must earn less than $46,400 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $86,100.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $19,500 | $32,500 | $52,000 |
| 2 Persons | $22,300 | $37,150 | $59,400 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $41,800 | $66,850 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $46,400 | $74,250 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $50,150 | $80,200 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $53,850 | $86,150 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $57,550 | $92,100 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $61,250 | $98,050 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Shell Lake 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 Shell Lake and have active housing programs.