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Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Bessemer, Alabama
There is 1 open waiting list in the Bessemer area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Bessemer, Alabama 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, Alabama
Bessemer, Alabama 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 Bessemer area. There are also 26 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Bessemer include Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), VASH. Of these, the following currently have open waitlists: Public Housing (1 open).
Latest Opening
Housing Authority of Bessemer opened its Public Housing waitlist .
About Housing in Bessemer, Alabama
Affordable housing assistance in Bessemer, Alabama is primarily administered by the Housing Authority of Bessemer. Individuals seeking support should be aware that currently, all three of their housing waiting lists are closed. These include lists for the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, the Project-Based Voucher (PBV) program, and the Public Housing program.
The Bessemer area offers approximately 1,301 assisted housing units. To qualify for very low-income assistance, a family of four must meet specific income requirements; for example, the annual income limit for a very low-income family of four is set at $47,950 for the FY2025 Birmingham-Hoover, AL HUD Metro FMR Area. Potential applicants are encouraged to frequently check with the Housing Authority of Bessemer for any announcements regarding the reopening of these crucial waiting lists.
The Alabama Housing Finance Authority (AHFA) also operates as the state housing agency, providing additional resources and information regarding housing programs across Alabama. Staying informed about eligibility criteria and application periods is key when seeking affordable housing opportunities in Bessemer.
Housing Authorities in Bessemer
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How to Apply for Section 8 in Bessemer
To apply for housing assistance in Bessemer, Alabama, submit an application directly to Housing Authority of Bessemer, 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 $47,950/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 Public Housing, Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), 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).
Bessemer, Alabama Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Bessemer, Alabama, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Birmingham-Hoover, AL HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $47,950 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $95,900.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $20,150 | $33,600 | $53,700 |
| 2 Persons | $23,000 | $38,400 | $61,400 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $43,200 | $69,050 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $47,950 | $76,700 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $51,800 | $82,850 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $55,650 | $89,000 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $59,500 | $95,150 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $63,300 | $101,250 |
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.