All Laws Decoded

Section 8 in Indiana: Housing Authorities and How to Apply

Section 8 (the Housing Choice Voucher program) is run by local public housing agencies (PHAs). You apply to the agency that serves where you want to live; many keep waiting lists that open only at times. Here are the agencies serving Indiana's largest areas, from HUD's official contact list and each agency's site.

Is it illegal for a Indiana landlord to refuse Section 8? No. Indiana has no statewide source-of-income protection, and local units may not adopt or enforce an ordinance that requires (or has the effect of requiring) a landlord to participate in Section 8 or a similar housing program. IC 36-1-3-8.5

Housing authorities in Indiana

Source: HUD public housing agency contact list. Check the agency's own site before applying; waiting lists open and close.

Statewide housing agency

Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA) — Runs the statewide Housing Choice Voucher program for areas without a local housing authority (not Indianapolis/Marion County), plus energy assistance, HOME tenant-based rental assistance through partners, eviction-prevention partner programs, and the Indiana Housing Now affordable-housing search.

Help paying rent in Indiana

How to apply

  1. Find the housing authority for the city or county where you want to live (list above).
  2. Check whether its voucher waiting list is open; many open for short windows or use a lottery.
  3. Apply only through the agency's official site or office. Applying is free — no one may charge you to get on a list.
  4. Keep your contact information current with the agency so you do not lose your place.
  5. When a voucher is issued, you find a rental whose rent fits the agency's payment standard and that passes inspection.

Rent levels (HUD Fair Market Rent) and local help by county

Indiana tenant rights · Free legal help in Indiana · Section 8 in other states

General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.