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housing assistance in wisconsin

Housing Assistance for Single Mothers in Wisconsin

Complete Housing Assistance Guide for Single Mothers in Wisconsin

Last updated: August 2025

Information verified with current program data as of August 12, 2025


Main Points

  • Emergency rental assistance is available through Community Action Agencies across all 72 Wisconsin counties, though major programs like WERA have limited funding
  • Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) help pay up to 70% of rent, but waiting lists are 12-24 months long and many are currently closed
  • WHEDA programs offer first-time homebuyer loans with competitive rates and down payment assistance up to $15,000
  • WHEAP energy assistance provides up to $2,580 for winter heating bills, but federal cuts may affect future funding
  • Income limits vary by county – most programs serve families earning 50-80% of area median income
  • Multiple programs can be combined for maximum assistance, but funding is increasingly limited

If You Need Help Today

Facing eviction or homeless? Call 2-1-1 immediately for emergency assistance or visit wisconsin211.org.

Can’t pay utilities? Contact your local Community Action Agency for crisis utility assistance – funding varies by county.

Need rent help now? Contact Community Advocates at (414) 895-RENT (7368) in Milwaukee, or your local Community Action Agency for emergency rental assistance.

In danger? Wisconsin Coalition Against Domestic Violence: (608) 255-0539 or National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233

Emergency Housing Assistance

Wisconsin Emergency Rental Assistance Program (WERA)

The Wisconsin Emergency Rental Assistance Program continues to operate in many counties, though funding is extremely limited. WERA provides up to 12 months of rental and utility assistance for households affected by financial hardship.

What it covers:

  • Up to 12 months of current and past-due rent
  • Utility and home energy costs
  • Security deposits and first month’s rent
  • Other housing-related expenses

Income requirements: Generally serves households at or below 80% of Area Median Income, with priority to those earning 50% AMI or less.

How to apply: Complete applications at wera.help – available for all Wisconsin counties except Brown, Dane, Milwaukee, and Waukesha, which have separate programs.

Processing time: Applications processed within 10 business days when complete documentation is provided.

Reality check: As of August 2025, the City of Milwaukee Emergency Rental Assistance Program has paused accepting new applications due to limited funding. Many county programs have similar funding shortages. Apply immediately if you qualify, as programs may close without notice.

Community Action Agency Emergency Assistance

Wisconsin has Community Action Agencies serving all 72 counties. These agencies provide the primary source of emergency housing assistance since federal emergency rental assistance programs have ended or reduced funding.

Services typically include:

  • Crisis intervention for utility shut-offs
  • Emergency rental assistance (amounts vary by agency and funding)
  • Security deposit assistance
  • Emergency food and clothing assistance
  • Case management services

Contact: Find your local Community Action Agency at Wisconsin Community Action Program Association (WISCAP).

Reality check: Funding varies dramatically by county and season. Rural counties often have more limited resources than urban areas.

Emergency Assistance (EA) Program

Wisconsin’s Emergency Assistance program provides one-time payments for families with children facing housing crises.

Eligibility requirements:

  • Must be a parent or caregiver of a child under 18
  • Income at or below 115% of Federal Poverty Level
  • Limited assets (savings accounts, high-value belongings)
  • Facing housing emergency, eviction, or homelessness

How to apply: Contact your local W-2 agency through the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families.

Maximum benefit: Varies by situation and available funding.

Long-Term Housing Programs

Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)

The Housing Choice Voucher program is Wisconsin’s largest rental assistance program. Families typically pay 30% of their income toward rent, with the voucher covering the remainder up to Fair Market Rent limits.

Income Eligibility (2025)

Based on HUD Income Limits – varies by county

Family Size Very Low Income (50% AMI) Extremely Low Income (30% AMI)
1 person $24,850 $14,900
2 people $28,400 $17,050
3 people $31,950 $19,150
4 people $35,450 $21,300

Note: These are statewide non-metropolitan averages. Income limits are higher in Milwaukee, Madison, and other metropolitan areas. Check exact limits with your local housing authority.

Priority groups:

  • Families experiencing homelessness
  • Families with disabilities
  • Elderly households
  • Veterans through VASH program
  • Families paying more than 50% of income for rent

Application process:

  1. Find your local Public Housing Authority
  2. Check if waiting list is open at Affordable Housing Online
  3. Complete application when waiting list opens (most accept online applications)
  4. Provide income verification, identification, Social Security cards, rental history
  5. Complete eligibility interview and background check
  6. Wait for voucher availability (typically 12-24 months)
  7. Attend briefing session and receive Housing Choice Voucher
  8. Find qualifying rental unit within 60-120 days
  9. Pass housing quality inspection before move-in

Reality check: As of July 2025, most Wisconsin housing authorities have closed waiting lists or have extremely long waits. WHEDA announced in April 2025 that it would not be issuing new Tenant-Based Housing Choice Vouchers due to funding shortfalls. Check current status regularly as waiting lists open unpredictably.

Fair Market Rents (2025)

Source: HUD Fair Market Rents

Metro Area 1 BR 2 BR 3 BR 4 BR
Milwaukee $793 $968 $1,238 $1,478
Madison $884 $1,072 $1,373 $1,571
Green Bay $663 $813 $1,062 $1,234
Appleton $650 $813 $1,062 $1,234

These are maximum amounts Section 8 will pay toward rent in each area.

Public Housing

Public housing developments are owned and operated by local housing authorities. Rent is typically 30% of adjusted income, with utilities sometimes included.

Major housing authorities:

Reality check: Milwaukee’s Public Housing waiting list will open March 5, 2025, but the Section 8 waiting list remains closed. Most housing authorities have similar patterns of periodic openings.

Homeownership Programs

Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA)

WHEDA offers the state’s primary first-time homebuyer programs with competitive interest rates and down payment assistance.

WHEDA Advantage Programs:

  • WHEDA Advantage Conventional: 30-year fixed rate, minimum 620 credit score
  • WHEDA Advantage FHA: 30-year fixed rate, minimum 640 credit score (higher than standard FHA)

Down Payment Assistance: Up to $15,000 in grants and forgivable loans for qualified buyers.

WHEDA Way Home Program: A new $5 million initiative funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation offering flexible underwriting for borrowers who face systemic barriers to homeownership.

Eligibility requirements:

  • First-time homebuyers (or haven’t owned in 3+ years)
  • Meet income and purchase price limits by county
  • Complete homebuyer education course
  • Use approved WHEDA lender
  • Occupy home as primary residence

Interest rates: Competitive rates, often below conventional mortgage rates. Rural target areas may qualify for additional rate reductions.

Utility Assistance Programs

Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP)

WHEAP helps eligible households with heating and electric bills through federal LIHEAP funding, though the program faces significant cuts.

Benefits Available (FY2025)

Source: LIHEAP Clearinghouse Wisconsin Profile

Benefit Type Amount Range
Regular Heating $30 minimum, $2,580 maximum
Crisis Assistance Up to $1,200
Weatherization Available through June-August

Application Periods

  • Heating assistance: October 1 – May 15
  • Crisis assistance: Year-round
  • Weatherization: July 1 – August 30

How to apply: Contact your local Community Action Agency – do not apply directly to the state office.

Required documents:

  • Photo ID for utility account holder
  • Social Security cards for all household members
  • Recent utility bills showing past due amounts
  • Proof of income for all household members 18+

Reality check: In April 2025, all federal LIHEAP employees were laid off, potentially affecting Wisconsin’s WHEAP program. While state funding continues, future availability is uncertain. Apply early in the season.

Utility Company Assistance Programs

Wisconsin utilities offer additional assistance beyond WHEAP:

Keep Wisconsin Warm/Cool Fund: Statewide nonprofit providing emergency energy assistance up to 80% of state median income.

Alliant Energy Hometown Care: Customer donations help low-income families with heating costs.

We Energies: Various assistance programs for qualifying customers.

Specialized Housing Resources

Transitional Housing Programs

Hope Gospel Mission

Hope Gospel Mission provides emergency shelter and transitional housing in Milwaukee.

Services:

  • Up to 30-day emergency stays
  • Basic needs (food, clothing, shelter)
  • Case management and life skills programming
  • Job placement assistance

Eligibility: Mothers and pregnant women 17+ with children under 10.

Domestic Violence Housing

Wisconsin Coalition Against Domestic Violence

24/7 Hotline: (608) 255-0539

Safe housing options include:

  • Emergency shelter
  • Transitional housing programs
  • Rapid rehousing assistance
  • Safety planning and support services

Inclusive Housing Resources

LGBTQ+ Single Mothers

Wisconsin has limited LGBTQ+-specific housing programs, but resources include:

Local support:

National resources:

  • National LGBT Task Force: Housing discrimination information
  • SAGE (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders): Senior housing resources

Tribal-Specific Resources

Wisconsin has 11 federally recognized tribes with specialized housing programs:

HUD Indian Housing Programs: Available to enrolled tribal members

Additional resources:

  • HUD Office of Native American Programs: (800) 955-2232
  • Tribal members may qualify for both tribal and general housing programs

Rural Single Mothers with Limited Access

Rural families face unique challenges including transportation barriers and fewer service providers.

Foundation for Rural Housing: Serves 69 counties with emergency housing assistance up to $400 (excludes Dane, Milwaukee, and Racine counties).

USDA Rural Development Programs:

  • Section 502 Direct Home Loans
  • Section 504 Home Repair Loans and Grants
  • Rental Assistance (similar to Section 8 for rural areas)

Transportation assistance:

  • Community Action Agencies may provide gas vouchers
  • Some agencies offer mobile services
  • Volunteer driver programs in select counties

Single Fathers

All housing programs described above are available regardless of gender. Single fathers face similar challenges and can access:

Additional resources:

Resources by Region

Southeast Wisconsin (Milwaukee Metro)

Community Advocates

  • Emergency rental assistance
  • Energy assistance
  • Tenant-landlord mediation
  • Address: 728 N. James Lovell St., Milwaukee, WI 53233
  • Rent Help: (414) 895-RENT (7368)

Housing Authority of the City of Milwaukee (HACM)

  • Section 8 and Public Housing (when waiting lists open)
  • Address: 809 N Broadway, Milwaukee, WI 53202
  • Phone: (414) 286-5751

South Central Wisconsin (Madison Area)

Community Action Coalition of South Central Wisconsin

  • WHEAP energy assistance
  • Emergency services
  • Phone: (608) 246-4730

Community Development Authority of Madison

  • Housing programs and waiting lists
  • Phone: (608) 266-6254

Northeast Wisconsin (Green Bay Area)

NEW Community Action Agency

  • Housing assistance programs
  • WHEAP administration
  • Phone: (920) 448-4300

Brown County Housing Authority

  • Public housing and Section 8 programs
  • Phone: (920) 448-4410

Western Wisconsin

Western Dairyland Economic Opportunity Council

  • Emergency assistance
  • Housing programs
  • Counties: Buffalo, Crawford, Jackson, La Crosse, Monroe, Pepin, Pierce, St. Croix, Trempealeau, Vernon
  • Phone: (608) 789-4880

Northern Wisconsin

CAP Services

  • Housing assistance and emergency services
  • WHEAP administration
  • Counties: Forest, Langlade, Lincoln, Marathon, Oneida, Portage, Vilas, Wood
  • Phone: (715) 343-7502

Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)

How long do I have to wait for Section 8 in Wisconsin?

According to current data from Wisconsin housing authorities, waiting times vary dramatically:

  • Milwaukee County: 18-36 months (when list is open)
  • Dane County (Madison): 24-48 months
  • Smaller cities: 12-24 months
  • Rural areas: 6-18 months

Many housing authorities have closed waiting lists indefinitely due to funding cuts. WHEDA stopped issuing new vouchers in April 2025. Check waiting list status regularly as programs reopen unpredictably.

Can I get help with rent if I work full-time?

Yes, most programs focus on income limits rather than employment status. A single mother with two children can typically earn up to $31,950 annually (50% AMI statewide average) and still qualify for housing assistance. Some programs serve families earning up to 80% AMI (approximately $51,120 for a family of three).

What if I can’t find a landlord who accepts Section 8?

Wisconsin does not prohibit source-of-income discrimination, so landlords can legally refuse Section 8 vouchers. However, many participate. Contact your housing authority for lists of participating landlords or search Gosection8.com. Some housing authorities offer landlord incentives to encourage participation.

Is emergency rental assistance still available in Wisconsin?

Limited emergency assistance remains available through:

  • Community Action Agencies (funding varies by county)
  • Foundation for Rural Housing (up to $400 in 69 counties)
  • Local city programs in Milwaukee and other municipalities

Major programs like the Wisconsin Emergency Rental Assistance Program (WERA) have significantly reduced funding or closed to new applicants.

How do I apply for multiple programs at once?

You can and should apply to multiple programs simultaneously. Common combinations include:

  • WHEAP for utilities + Section 8 for rent + SNAP for food
  • Emergency rental assistance + W-2 cash assistance + Medicaid
  • First-time homebuyer programs + down payment assistance

Each program has separate applications and eligibility requirements.

What if I have an eviction on my record?

Housing assistance programs vary in their policies:

  • Emergency programs typically don’t have strict background requirements
  • Section 8 may consider evictions but allows explanations
  • Public housing has similar flexibility with evidence of changed circumstances
  • WHEDA homebuyer programs focus more on credit score than rental history

Be honest about your situation and provide documentation of improvements.

Can undocumented immigrants get housing assistance?

Most federal programs require legal immigration status, but some assistance may be available:

  • Emergency assistance through Community Action Agencies (varies by agency)
  • Some local programs don’t have citizenship requirements
  • Mixed-status families may qualify if children are citizens

Contact 2-1-1 for guidance on available resources.

What happens if my income increases after getting assistance?

Programs handle income increases differently:

  • Section 8: Annual reviews adjust your payment portion; you may eventually earn out of the program
  • Public housing: Similar annual reviews with gradual increases
  • WHEDA loans: Income increases don’t affect your mortgage terms
  • Energy assistance: You’ll need to re-qualify annually

Income increases are positive steps toward self-sufficiency, and most programs have phase-out periods.

Warning Signs and Reality Checks

Current Funding Crisis

Wisconsin housing assistance faces unprecedented challenges:

Federal cuts: LIHEAP staff layoffs in April 2025 threaten energy assistance

State funding limitations: WHEDA stopped issuing new Section 8 vouchers due to funding shortfalls

Local program closures: Milwaukee’s emergency rental assistance program paused new applications

Red Flags to Avoid

Housing scams are increasing: Never pay fees to apply for government housing programs. Legitimate programs are free.

“Guaranteed” assistance: No service can guarantee you’ll receive housing assistance or jump waiting lists.

Rental scams: Be wary of listings requiring payment before viewing properties or deals that seem too good to be true.

Tips for Success in the Current Environment

Apply early and often: Apply to multiple programs as soon as applications open. Don’t wait to be denied by one before applying to others.

Document everything: Keep organized files of all applications and correspondence. Follow up monthly on application status.

Build relationships: Develop connections with caseworkers at Community Action Agencies who can alert you to new funding opportunities.

Have backup plans: Don’t rely on a single program. Identify multiple potential sources of assistance.

Stay informed: Check agency websites regularly, as funding availability changes quickly.

Additional Resources

Wisconsin State Agencies

Wisconsin Department of Children and Families

  • W-2, SNAP, Emergency Assistance applications
  • Phone: (608) 422-7000
  • Website: dcf.wisconsin.gov

Wisconsin Department of Administration – Energy and Housing

Federal Resources

HUD Wisconsin Field Office

USDA Rural Development – Wisconsin

  • Rural housing programs
  • Phone: (608) 662-4617
  • Website: rd.usda.gov/wi

Legal Aid

Legal Action of Wisconsin

  • Free legal help for housing issues
  • Eviction defense and tenant rights
  • Phone: (855) 947-2529
  • Website: legalaction.org

State Bar of Wisconsin Lawyer Referral

  • Low-cost legal consultations
  • Phone: (800) 362-9082

Financial Counseling

Wisconsin Housing Counseling Network Find HUD-approved housing counselors at hud.gov/findacounselor or call (800) 569-4287.

WHEDA Homebuyer Education Required courses for WHEDA programs, also beneficial for financial planning.

About this guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

The ASingleMother.org team has been researching and writing comprehensive benefits guides for single mothers across all 50 states since 2020. Our editorial team regularly updates these guides by reviewing official government sources, contacting state agencies, and incorporating feedback from hundreds of single mothers who have used these programs.

This Wisconsin guide represents over 5 years of experience helping single mothers navigate the benefits system. We verify information with official sources including Wisconsin Department of Children and Families, WHEDA, HUD, and local nonprofits to ensure accuracy.

Information compiled from official Wisconsin Department of Children and Families, Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority, HUD, Community Action agencies, and federal sources. Last verified: August 2025.

The ASingleMother.org editorial team welcomes feedback on this guide. If you find outdated information or discover new resources, please contact us at info@asinglemother.org so we can help other single mothers with accurate, current information.

Disclaimer

Program details, income limits, and availability can change rapidly, especially given current federal and state funding challenges. This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal or financial advice. Always verify current program requirements, application deadlines, and income limits with the relevant agency before applying. Funding for assistance programs is increasingly limited and not guaranteed to be available when you apply.

For the most current information, contact programs directly or speak with a HUD-approved housing counselor at (800) 569-4287.

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