Indiana’s housing market has grown increasingly competitive over the past several years. The Indianapolis metro has emerged as one of the fastest-rising rental markets in the Midwest, while cities like Fort Wayne, Evansville, South Bend, and Bloomington face their own affordability pressures driven by job growth, student populations, and limited affordable housing stock. For low-income families, seniors, and individuals with disabilities across the Hoosier State, Section 8 housing vouchers in Indiana provide essential monthly rent relief that helps make stable housing achievable.
This complete guide covers everything you need to know about Section 8 housing in Indiana — including who qualifies, Indiana-specific income limits by region, Fair Market Rents, a full directory of Indiana Public Housing Authorities, a step-by-step application guide, and answers to the most frequently asked questions.
What Is Section 8 Housing in Indiana?
Section 8 — officially called the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program — is a federally funded rental assistance program administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). In Indiana, the program is managed by local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) across the state, as well as through the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA), which provides statewide oversight, affordable housing financing, and administers certain rental assistance programs for areas not served by a local PHA.
The program pays a portion of your monthly rent directly to your landlord. You contribute approximately 30% of your adjusted monthly income toward rent, and your Indiana PHA covers the remainder — up to the local payment standard — each month. You are free to choose any privately owned rental unit in Indiana where the landlord agrees to participate and the unit meets HUD’s Housing Quality Standards.
Indiana Context: Indiana has a relatively affordable housing market compared to coastal states, but affordability is increasingly strained in the Indianapolis metro, college towns like Bloomington and West Lafayette, and growing cities like Carmel and Fishers. The Indianapolis Housing Agency (IHA) administers one of the largest HCV programs in the state, but its waitlist is frequently closed. IHCDA’s statewide programs provide a critical safety net for rural and small-city Indiana residents.
Indiana Source-of-Income Law: What Voucher Holders Need to Know
Indiana does not have a statewide source-of-income (SOI) protection law. This means Indiana landlords are legally permitted to refuse Section 8 vouchers statewide — and some do, particularly in tight rental markets like Indianapolis and Bloomington.
There are currently no major Indiana cities with enacted local SOI ordinances providing comprehensive voucher protection. This makes finding a willing landlord more work in Indiana than in SOI-protected states.
Practical Advice: In Indiana, your most reliable tools for finding a participating landlord are your PHA’s internal landlord list, GoSection8.com, and IHCDA’s housing resources. Many Indiana landlords — especially in smaller cities, suburban neighborhoods, and rural areas — do participate in Section 8. Building a strong relationship with your PHA housing specialist, who often maintains direct connections to willing landlords, is especially valuable in Indiana’s unprotected market.
Who Qualifies for Section 8 Housing Vouchers in Indiana?
To be eligible for Section 8 housing in Indiana, you must meet all of the following requirements:
1. Income Limits
Your household’s total gross annual income must fall below HUD’s income limits for your area in Indiana. These are based on the Area Median Income (AMI) and vary by county — the Indianapolis metro has the state’s highest AMI, while rural southern Indiana counties run significantly lower.
Below are the approximate [Current_year] income limits for a family of four in major Indiana areas:
| Indiana Area | Extremely Low (30% AMI) | Very Low (50% AMI) | Low Income (80% AMI) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indianapolis-Carmel-Anderson (Marion County) | ~$29,450 | ~$49,100 | ~$78,550 |
| Hamilton County (Carmel / Fishers / Noblesville) | ~$38,050 | ~$63,450 | ~$101,500 |
| Fort Wayne (Allen County) | ~$24,800 | ~$41,400 | ~$66,200 |
| Evansville (Vanderburgh County) | ~$22,600 | ~$37,650 | ~$60,250 |
| South Bend (St. Joseph County) | ~$23,500 | ~$39,200 | ~$62,700 |
| Bloomington (Monroe County) | ~$24,400 | ~$40,650 | ~$65,050 |
| Lafayette-West Lafayette (Tippecanoe County) | ~$26,300 | ~$43,800 | ~$70,100 |
| Muncie (Delaware County) | ~$20,300 | ~$33,850 | ~$54,150 |
| Terre Haute (Vigo County) | ~$20,150 | ~$33,600 | ~$53,750 |
| Kokomo (Howard County) | ~$22,500 | ~$37,500 | ~$60,000 |
| Gary / Hammond (Lake County) | ~$25,700 | ~$42,850 | ~$68,600 |
| Rural / Non-Metro Indiana | ~$18,800 | ~$31,300 | ~$50,100 |
Note: Hamilton County (Carmel/Fishers) has significantly higher income limits than Marion County (Indianapolis) due to its elevated AMI — a family of four earning up to $63,450 may qualify at the Very Low Income level. These figures are approximate and updated annually. Always verify current limits at huduser.gov or with your local Indiana PHA or IHCDA.
2. Citizenship or Eligible Immigration Status
At least one household member must be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen — such as a lawful permanent resident, refugee, or asylee. Mixed-status households qualify for prorated assistance.
3. Family Composition
Section 8 is open to single individuals, couples, families with children, elderly persons (age 62+), and persons with disabilities. Household size determines the voucher bedroom size issued.
4. Criminal Background
Federal mandatory bars apply: lifetime sex offender registration and methamphetamine manufacturing in federally assisted housing. Individual Indiana PHAs set their own additional screening criteria. Contact your specific PHA for their criminal history policy before applying if this applies to your household.
5. No Outstanding PHA Debt
Any unpaid debt owed to any PHA — in Indiana or another state — must be resolved before approval.
Pro Tip: Hamilton County (Carmel, Fishers, Noblesville) has dramatically higher income limits than neighboring Marion County. A family of four earning up to $63,450 may qualify in Hamilton County — well above the $49,100 threshold for Marion County. If you work in the northern Indianapolis suburbs, don’t assume you earn too much before checking Hamilton County’s current limits at huduser.gov.
How Much Rent Assistance Will You Receive in Indiana?
Your Section 8 subsidy in Indiana is based on your adjusted monthly income, HUD’s Fair Market Rents for your county, and your PHA’s payment standard. You pay 30% of adjusted income; the PHA covers the rest up to the payment standard.
Here are the approximate [Current_year] Fair Market Rents for major Indiana markets:
| Indiana Area | 1 Bedroom | 2 Bedroom | 3 Bedroom | 4 Bedroom |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Indianapolis / Marion County | ~$1,000 | ~$1,200 | ~$1,600 | ~$1,950 |
| Hamilton County (northern suburbs) | ~$1,150 | ~$1,400 | ~$1,850 | ~$2,250 |
| Fort Wayne / Allen County | ~$800 | ~$1,000 | ~$1,300 | ~$1,600 |
| Evansville / Vanderburgh County | ~$750 | ~$950 | ~$1,250 | ~$1,500 |
| South Bend / St. Joseph County | ~$800 | ~$1,000 | ~$1,300 | ~$1,600 |
| Bloomington / Monroe County | ~$900 | ~$1,100 | ~$1,450 | ~$1,750 |
| Lafayette / Tippecanoe County | ~$850 | ~$1,050 | ~$1,400 | ~$1,700 |
| Gary / Hammond / Lake County | ~$850 | ~$1,050 | ~$1,400 | ~$1,700 |
| Muncie / Delaware County | ~$650 | ~$800 | ~$1,050 | ~$1,300 |
| Terre Haute / Vigo County | ~$650 | ~$800 | ~$1,050 | ~$1,300 |
| Kokomo / Howard County | ~$700 | ~$850 | ~$1,100 | ~$1,350 |
| Rural / Non-Metro Indiana | ~$600 | ~$750 | ~$1,000 | ~$1,200 |
Note: Payment standards set by each Indiana PHA typically range between 90%–110% of these FMR figures. Confirm current payment standards directly with your local PHA or IHCDA.
Indiana Public Housing Authorities (PHAs): Complete Directory
Section 8 housing vouchers in Indiana are administered by local PHAs across the state. Below is a comprehensive directory organized by region.
Statewide Resource
| Organization | Phone | Website | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA) | (317) 232-7777 | ihcda.in.gov | Statewide housing oversight, affordable housing programs, and rental assistance for areas without a local PHA |
Indianapolis Metro PHAs
| PHA Name | City | Phone | Service Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indianapolis Housing Agency (IHA) | Indianapolis | (317) 261-7200 | Marion County / City of Indianapolis |
| Hamilton County Housing Authority | Noblesville | (317) 776-9941 | Hamilton County |
| Hendricks County Housing Authority | Danville | (317) 745-5852 | Hendricks County |
| Anderson Housing Authority | Anderson | (765) 649-4595 | Madison County |
| Shelbyville Housing Authority | Shelbyville | (317) 392-4558 | Shelby County |
North Indiana PHAs
| PHA Name | City | Phone | Service Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Wayne Housing Authority | Fort Wayne | (260) 428-0045 | Allen County |
| South Bend Housing Authority | South Bend | (574) 235-9346 | St. Joseph County |
| Housing Authority of the City of Gary | Gary | (219) 881-5840 | Lake County (Gary area) |
| Hammond Housing Authority | Hammond | (219) 853-6650 | City of Hammond |
| East Chicago Housing Authority | East Chicago | (219) 397-2700 | City of East Chicago |
| Elkhart Housing Authority | Elkhart | (574) 295-7671 | Elkhart County |
| Mishawaka Housing Authority | Mishawaka | (574) 258-1628 | City of Mishawaka |
| Kokomo Housing Authority | Kokomo | (765) 452-5151 | Howard County |
| Lafayette Housing Authority | Lafayette | (765) 423-1561 | Tippecanoe County |
Central & East Indiana PHAs
| PHA Name | City | Phone | Service Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| Muncie Housing Authority | Muncie | (765) 288-1561 | Delaware County |
| Richmond Housing Authority | Richmond | (765) 966-2371 | Wayne County |
| Connersville Housing Authority | Connersville | (765) 825-3426 | Fayette County |
| New Castle Housing Authority | New Castle | (765) 529-4414 | Henry County |
South & Southwest Indiana PHAs
| PHA Name | City | Phone | Service Area |
|---|---|---|---|
| Evansville Housing Authority | Evansville | (812) 428-8500 | Vanderburgh County |
| Bloomington Housing Authority | Bloomington | (812) 339-3491 | Monroe County |
| Terre Haute Housing Authority | Terre Haute | (812) 232-1381 | Vigo County |
| Columbus Housing Authority | Columbus | (812) 379-2565 | Bartholomew County |
| Bedford Housing Authority | Bedford | (812) 275-5933 | Lawrence County |
| Jeffersonville Housing Authority | Jeffersonville | (812) 288-3759 | Clark County (Louisville metro area) |
| New Albany Housing Authority | New Albany | (812) 944-4967 | Floyd County (Louisville metro area) |
Tip: If your city or county is not listed above, contact IHCDA at (317) 232-7777 or visit ihcda.in.gov for referral to the appropriate local program. You can also use HUD’s PHA locator at hud.gov filtered by Indiana to find every agency serving your area.
How to Apply for Section 8 Housing Vouchers in Indiana
Here is a complete step-by-step guide to applying for Section 8 housing in Indiana:
Step 1: Identify Every Indiana PHA Serving Your Area
In the Indianapolis metro, multiple PHAs serve different counties — IHA covers Marion County while separate PHAs serve Hamilton, Hendricks, and neighboring counties. In the Lake County (Gary/Hammond) area, multiple city PHAs operate independently. Identify every PHA that serves your current or target area and apply to all open waitlists.
Step 2: Check for Open Waitlists
Most Indiana PHAs manage waitlists that open and close based on available funding and turnover. To stay current:
- Check each PHA’s official website regularly for waitlist announcements
- Call each Indiana PHA directly to ask about current waitlist status and expected opening dates
- Monitor affordablehousingonline.com for Indiana waitlist openings
- Check ihcda.in.gov for statewide program updates from IHCDA
- Follow Indiana Housing Now and local housing advocacy organizations for announcements
Step 3: Apply Immediately When a Waitlist Opens
When IHA or another large Indiana PHA opens its waitlist, apply instantly — openings can fill within 24 to 72 hours. Most major Indiana PHAs now offer online pre-applications. Have ready:
- Full names and dates of birth for all household members
- Current address and contact information
- Social Security numbers for all household members
- Total estimated annual household income
- Household size and composition
- Any special circumstances: disability, homeless status, veteran status, or domestic violence survivor
Step 4: Maintain Your Waitlist Position
Indiana PHA waitlists vary in length. IHA’s Indianapolis waitlist typically runs 2 to 5 years and is frequently closed. Smaller city PHAs can have shorter waits — sometimes 1 to 3 years. While waiting:
- Update your contact information with every PHA every time you move or change your phone number
- Respond immediately to all annual confirmation notices
- Apply to multiple Indiana PHAs simultaneously — applying in smaller cities can mean shorter waits
- Ask about priority preferences that may advance your position:
- Currently homeless or residing in emergency shelter
- Victim of domestic violence, dating violence, or stalking (VAWA protections apply)
- Veteran or active-duty service member
- Person with a disability requiring accessible or supportive housing
- Displaced by fire, natural disaster, or government action
Step 5: Complete the Full Application
When your name is reached, gather these documents without delay:
- Photo ID — driver’s license, state ID, or passport for all adult household members
- Birth certificates — for all household members
- Social Security cards — for all household members
- Proof of income — recent pay stubs, Social Security or disability award letters, Indiana TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families — TANF) award letters, or most recent federal tax return
- Bank statements — last 2–3 months for all accounts
- Rental history — landlord names, addresses, and contact info for the past 2–3 years
- Benefit letters — SNAP, Indiana Medicaid (Healthy Indiana Plan / HIP), TANF, or other Indiana benefit award letters
Step 6: Attend the Eligibility Interview
An Indiana PHA specialist will review your application, verify documents, and conduct an eligibility interview. Be thorough and honest. If you believe your application was improperly handled, contact Indiana Legal Services at (800) 869-0212 or the Indiana Civil Rights Commission at (800) 628-2909.
Step 7: Receive Your Voucher and Search for Housing
If approved, you receive your Indiana Section 8 voucher and typically have 60 to 120 days to find eligible housing. Indiana has no statewide SOI law, so securing a willing landlord requires active searching. Ask your PHA for their internal landlord list and use every available resource. Request extensions proactively if needed.
Finding Section 8 Housing in Indiana
Without a statewide SOI law, finding a participating landlord in Indiana takes more active effort — but many do participate, especially outside the Indianapolis core. Here are the best resources:
- IHCDA Housing Resources: ihcda.in.gov — IHCDA maintains affordable housing search tools and program information statewide
- HUD Housing Locator: hudhousinglocator.com — search by Indiana city or ZIP code
- GoSection8.com: national database with strong Indiana listings, especially Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, and South Bend
- AffordableHousing.com: filter by Indiana for voucher-friendly listings
- Your local PHA landlord list: request the internal participating landlord list at your briefing — the most reliable resource in a non-SOI state
- Zillow / Apartments.com / Craigslist Indiana: search keywords “Section 8 welcome,” “HCV accepted,” or “housing vouchers OK”
- Horizon House (Indianapolis): horizonhouse.cc — housing navigation and supportive services for Indianapolis residents experiencing homelessness; (317) 637-4197
- Indiana Civil Rights Commission: If you experience housing discrimination based on a protected class (race, disability, familial status, etc.), contact the Indiana Civil Rights Commission at (800) 628-2909 or icrc.in.gov
Indiana Section 8 Housing: Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Section 8 waitlist in Indiana?
Wait times vary by program and location. The Indianapolis Housing Agency (IHA) waitlist typically runs 2 to 5 years when open — and is frequently closed. In the Lake County (Gary/Hammond) area, waits run 2 to 4 years. In cities like Fort Wayne, South Bend, and Evansville, waits are typically 1 to 3 years when lists are open. Smaller Indiana cities and rural areas often have shorter waits. Applying to multiple Indiana PHAs simultaneously is the most effective way to reduce your personal wait time.
Can an Indiana landlord refuse Section 8?
Yes — Indiana does not have a statewide source-of-income protection law, so landlords may legally refuse Section 8 vouchers statewide. There are currently no major Indiana cities with local SOI ordinances in effect. Despite this, many Indiana landlords participate in Section 8 — particularly in suburban and smaller-city markets. Work closely with your PHA housing specialist and use GoSection8.com and your PHA’s landlord list to find willing landlords.
What is the income limit for Section 8 in Indiana?
Income limits vary by county. For a family of four, the Very Low Income limit (50% AMI) ranges from approximately $31,300 in rural Indiana to $63,450 in Hamilton County. Marion County (Indianapolis) is approximately $49,100, Fort Wayne approximately $41,400, and South Bend approximately $39,200. Verify current county-specific limits at huduser.gov as they are updated annually.
How much does Section 8 pay for rent in Indiana?
In Indianapolis (Marion County), payment standards for a two-bedroom unit are approximately $1,100–$1,300. In Hamilton County, they run higher — approximately $1,300–$1,550. In Fort Wayne and South Bend, approximately $950–$1,100. In Evansville and Terre Haute, approximately $850–$1,000. In rural Indiana, payment standards are typically $700–$900 for a two-bedroom. Contact your specific PHA for current exact payment standards.
What is IHCDA and how does it help Indiana renters?
The Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA) is Indiana’s state housing finance and policy agency. IHCDA administers several programs that complement the Section 8 system, including the Indiana Emergency Rental Assistance Program, LIHTC affordable housing developments, HOME Investment Partnerships, and homeownership assistance. IHCDA also provides oversight and support for local Indiana PHAs. Contact IHCDA at (317) 232-7777 or visit ihcda.in.gov for statewide program information.
Can I use my Indiana Section 8 voucher in another state?
Yes. After living in your initial Indiana Section 8-assisted unit for at least 12 months, you can port your voucher to another state. Contact your Indiana PHA to initiate the portability process. Your subsidy will be recalculated based on the receiving area’s payment standards, which may be higher or lower than Indiana levels.
Are there Section 8 vouchers for veterans in Indiana?
Yes. The HUD-VASH program provides Section 8 vouchers for homeless veterans combined with VA case management. Indiana has multiple VA facilities administering HUD-VASH, including the Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center (Indianapolis) at (317) 554-0000, Fort Wayne VA at (260) 460-1350, Evansville VA at (812) 465-6202, and South Bend VA at (574) 299-4847. Contact your nearest Indiana VA facility to inquire about HUD-VASH availability.
Are there housing programs in Indiana specifically for Jeffersonville and New Albany near Louisville?
Yes — the Louisville, Kentucky metro extends into southern Indiana, specifically Clark County (Jeffersonville) and Floyd County (New Albany). The Jeffersonville Housing Authority at (812) 288-3759 and the New Albany Housing Authority at (812) 944-4967 serve these communities. If you live in this region, you may also be able to apply to the Louisville Metro Housing Authority (LMHA) in Kentucky — contact LMHA at (502) 569-3400 to ask about their policies for Indiana residents.
What other programs help with housing in Indiana besides Section 8?
Indiana has several additional housing assistance programs including the Indiana Emergency Rental Assistance Program administered through IHCDA, emergency rental help through local Community Action Agencies across the state, LIHTC affordable housing developments, and the Indiana Foreclosure Prevention Network for homeowners. Dial 211 for immediate local referrals anywhere in Indiana, or visit 211.org and select Indiana.
Additional Housing Resources in Indiana
- Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA): ihcda.in.gov — statewide housing programs, rental assistance, homeownership, and affordable housing development; (317) 232-7777
- 2-1-1 Indiana: Dial 211 or visit 211.org (select Indiana) — emergency housing, shelter, utility assistance, and social services statewide, 24/7
- Indiana Civil Rights Commission (ICRC): icrc.in.gov — file housing discrimination complaints based on protected classes; (800) 628-2909
- Indiana Legal Services: indianalegalservices.org — free housing legal assistance for low-income Hoosiers including eviction defense and fair housing; (800) 869-0212
- Neighborhood Christian Legal Clinic (Indianapolis): nclegalclinic.org — free housing legal help in the Indianapolis area; (317) 429-4131
- Horizon House (Indianapolis): horizonhouse.cc — housing navigation, day services, and rapid rehousing for Indianapolis residents experiencing homelessness; (317) 637-4197
- Exodus Refugee Immigration (Indianapolis): exodusrefugee.org — housing and resettlement services for newly arrived refugees in Indiana; (317) 921-9048
- Community Action of Greater Indianapolis: cagi.org — emergency rental assistance and utility help; (317) 396-1800
- HUD-Approved Housing Counselors: Free counseling statewide — find one at hud.gov/housingcounseling
- HUD-VASH for Veterans: Contact Richard L. Roudebush VA Medical Center at (317) 554-0000 for homeless veteran housing vouchers in Indianapolis
- Indiana Association of Community Economic Development (IACED): iaced.org — community development and housing resources statewide
Final Thoughts: Getting Section 8 Housing in Indiana
Securing a Section 8 housing voucher in Indiana requires patience and persistence — waitlists in Indianapolis and the Lake County area can stretch several years, and Indiana’s lack of a statewide SOI law means finding a willing landlord takes extra effort. But Indiana’s relatively affordable housing market (outside the northern Indianapolis suburbs) means that voucher payment standards generally go further here than in higher-cost states.
Here are the most important actions to take right now:
- Apply to every open Indiana PHA waitlist immediately — IHA, Hamilton County, Lake County, Fort Wayne, South Bend, and every PHA serving your area
- Don’t overlook smaller Indiana cities — Muncie, Kokomo, Terre Haute, Richmond, and Lafayette PHAs often have shorter waitlists when open
- Contact IHCDA at (317) 232-7777 to ask about statewide rental assistance programs that may be available while you wait for a Section 8 voucher
- Keep all contact information current with every PHA you have applied to
- Ask your PHA for their internal landlord list — in Indiana’s non-SOI market, this is your most reliable tool for finding a willing landlord
- Dial 211 for immediate help with housing, emergency rental assistance, and other urgent needs while you wait
For the most current waitlist information, contact your local Indiana PHA directly or visit the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority at ihcda.in.gov.
Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Income limits, Fair Market Rents, payment standards, and program rules are updated annually by HUD. Indiana state housing laws and programs are also subject to change. Always verify current information with your local Indiana Public Housing Authority, the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority, or a HUD-approved housing counselor before applying.