Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in East Chicago, Indiana
There is 1 open waiting list in the East Chicago area right now. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving East Chicago, Indiana 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 East Chicago, 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 East Chicago, Indiana
East Chicago, Indiana 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 East Chicago area. There are also 12 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in East Chicago 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 the City of East Chicago opened its Public Housing waitlist on May 28, 2025.
Housing Authorities in East Chicago
How to Apply for Section 8 in East Chicago
To apply for Section 8 or Public Housing assistance in East Chicago, Indiana, you need to submit an application directly to one of the housing authorities listed above during an open enrollment period. 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. Having these ready before a waitlist opens can be the difference between getting on the list and missing the window.
Most housing authorities in the East Chicago area accept online applications through their official portal. 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). Wait times in Indiana typically range from 6 months to 5+ years depending on demand.
East Chicago, Indiana Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in East Chicago, Indiana, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Gary, IN HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $47,800 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $95,600.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $20,100 | $33,500 | $53,550 |
| 2 Persons | $23,000 | $38,250 | $61,200 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $43,050 | $68,850 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $47,800 | $76,500 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $51,650 | $82,650 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $55,450 | $88,750 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $59,300 | $94,900 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $63,100 | $101,000 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in East Chicago 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 East Chicago and have active housing programs.