Stop worrying about overdue payments. We offer a straightforward way to get the funds you need to take control of your finances. Fast approval, clear terms.
For Wisconsin residents facing financial hardship, understanding the current landscape of rent relief is the most critical first step. The state's support system has changed significantly since the pandemic, with several large-scale programs no longer active. Navigating the remaining options is key to securing assistance.
It is important to note that the Wisconsin Emergency Rental Assistance (WERA) program, a major source of federal aid, is now closed and no longer accepting applications because its funds have been exhausted. This program helped tens of thousands of households with rent and utilities across all 72 counties. Similarly, the Veterans Rental Assistance Program (VRAP) has also closed after fully expending its funds.
Despite these closures, a network of state, county, and local resources remains available to provide crucial support. These active programs often have specific eligibility requirements related to income, household composition, and the nature of the financial crisis. The following sections detail the currently active programs and the local agencies that serve as the primary point of contact for residents.
Statewide Emergency Assistance for Families with Children
For families with minor children experiencing an immediate housing crisis, the state offers a specific program designed for rapid intervention. This assistance can be a determining factor in preventing an eviction or securing new housing after a displacement.
Emergency Assistance (EA): Direct Financial Support for Housing Crises
The Emergency Assistance (EA) program, administered by the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF), is a key resource for eligible low-income families. It provides a one-time payment to resolve an immediate threat to a family's housing, such as an eviction or utility disconnection.
This is not a long-term subsidy but a direct cash payment intended to address a qualifying emergency. However, EA has specific eligibility criteria and is designed exclusively to assist families with children. Households without a minor child are not eligible for this particular form of state aid, making local resources essential for a broader population.
Who is Eligible for Emergency Assistance?
To qualify for the EA program, a household must meet several strict requirements:
Household Composition: The household must include at least one child under the age of 18. The applicant must be a parent or a relative caring for the child.
Income Limits: The household's gross income must be at or below 115% of the Federal Poverty Level. Residents can check their potential eligibility online through the ACCESS website without submitting a full application.
Asset Limits: Applicants must have limited assets. A vehicle is only counted as an asset if its value exceeds $10,000.
Crisis Requirement: The family must be facing a specific, documented emergency, such as an eviction notice, fire, flood, natural disaster, or a severe energy crisis.
What Financial Help Can EA Provide?
The financial support from the EA program is a one-time payment, with maximum amounts determined by household size and the type of crisis.
Maximum Payment Amounts:
For households with 2 to 5 people, the maximum payment is $1,200.
For households with 6 or more people, the payment is $220 per person.
For a qualifying energy crisis, the maximum payment is $750.
Covered Expenses: Funds can be used to pay past-due rent, cover a security deposit for a new apartment, or pay a utility bill to prevent a shutoff.
Frequency: A household can only receive an EA payment once in a 12-month period.
How to Apply for the EA Program
The application process for Emergency Assistance is centralized through the state's public benefits portal, with options for in-person assistance.
Online Application: The most efficient method is to apply online through the Wisconsin ACCESS website. This portal allows residents to apply for multiple benefit programs at once.
In-Person Application: Applications can also be submitted in person at a local Wisconsin Works (W-2) agency. The DCF website provides a directory to find local agency contact information.
Long-Term and Targeted Housing Support Programs
Beyond immediate emergency aid, Wisconsin offers several programs designed to provide long-term housing stability for specific populations. These programs address the root causes of housing affordability but are not structured for immediate crisis resolution and often have waiting lists.
Long-Term Rental Subsidies: The WHEDA Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8)
The Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) administers the Housing Choice Voucher Program, commonly known as Section 8, in 48 counties. This federal program from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides long-term rental assistance to very low-income families, the elderly, and people with disabilities.
The program functions as a rental subsidy. Eligible families typically pay 30% to 40% of their adjusted income toward rent and utilities, and the voucher covers the remaining balance. This allows families to secure safe and affordable housing in the private market.
It is important to understand that Section 8 is not an emergency rent relief program. The demand for vouchers far exceeds the available supply, and most applicants are placed on a waiting list that can be closed for extended periods. Applications are handled by local agencies that contract with WHEDA.
Homelessness Prevention and Housing Stability Programs
Several state-administered programs focus on preventing homelessness by providing rental assistance, security deposit help, and other supportive services.
Tenant-Based Rental Assistance (TBRA): Funded by the federal HOME program, TBRA provides rental assistance and security deposit grants to households at or below 60% of the county median income who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness. Assistance can be provided for up to 24 months, and security deposit aid is a grant, not a loan.
Critical Assistance (CA) Program: The CA program offers a one-time payment to prevent homelessness for low-to-moderate-income households. It primarily serves residents outside of Dane, Milwaukee, and Racine counties. To be considered, a household must first exhaust all other available local resources.
Specialized Housing Support for Wisconsin Residents
In addition to general low-income programs, there are specialized housing resources targeted toward specific vulnerable populations in the state.
Support for Individuals with Disabilities: The Section 811 Project Rental Assistance (PRA) program provides project-based rental assistance to extremely low-income adults with disabilities who are exiting or at risk of institutionalization. This program connects affordable housing with access to supportive services to promote independent living.
Resources for Veterans: The dedicated Veterans Rental Assistance Program (VRAP) is no longer accepting applications due to a lack of funding. Veteran households facing a housing crisis should explore their eligibility for other programs or contact their local County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO) for information on other available benefits.
Find Wisconsin Rent Relief in Your County
While statewide programs provide a foundation of support, the most direct assistance for rent relief is often found at the local level. Housing services in Wisconsin are highly decentralized, with a network of community-based organizations responsible for administering funds.
Your Local Connection to Housing Aid: Community Action Agencies
The Wisconsin Community Action Program Association (WISCAP) is a statewide network of 16 independent, non-profit Community Action Agencies (CAAs). These agencies are on the front line of combating poverty and are often the primary entity in a county responsible for administering housing stability programs.
For a resident seeking rent relief, the local CAA is the most important starting point. These agencies have a deep understanding of local needs and can connect individuals with the specific resources available in their community.
Key Rental Assistance Contacts by Wisconsin Region
Identifying the correct agency for a specific county is a critical step. The following table organizes the primary housing assistance contacts by county and region, providing a direct path to the right resources.
Counties Served
Primary Agency/Resource
Contact Information
Milwaukee
Community Advocates / Rental Housing Resource Center
Southwest Wisconsin Community Action Program (SWCAP)
Southwest Wisconsin Community Action Program (SWCAP)
Barron, Burnett, Chippewa, Dunn, Pepin, Pierce, Polk, St. Croix, Washburn
West CAP
Phone: 715-265-4271 Website: westcap.org
Phone: 715-265-4271 Website: westcap.org
Western Dairyland Economic Opportunity Council
Western Dairyland Economic Opportunity Council
Your First Steps to Securing Housing Aid
Facing a housing crisis can be overwhelming, and the volume of information can be difficult to navigate. There are two primary "navigator" resources designed to simplify the process and connect you with the right help based on your specific situation and location.
Feeling Overwhelmed? Start Here.
The challenge for a person in crisis is often not a lack of programs but an excess of fragmented information. The most effective path forward is to connect with experts who are trained to navigate this complex system.
Step 1: Dial 2-1-1
The single most important starting point for anyone in Wisconsin seeking social services is 211 Wisconsin. This is a free, confidential information and referral service that connects people to thousands of local programs, including those for housing, rent, and utility support. Trained specialists are available 24/7 to provide referrals to the most appropriate local agencies.
To connect:
Dial 2-1-1 from any phone.
Text your ZIP code to 898211.
Search the online database at 211wisconsin.communityos.org.
Step 2: Speak with a HUD-Approved Housing Counselor
For more in-depth, personalized guidance, contacting a HUD-Approved Housing Counseling Agency is a highly recommended step. These trained professionals provide free or low-cost advice on a wide range of housing issues, from budgeting to negotiating with a landlord. This service provides a partnership with an expert who can help develop a plan for both immediate relief and long-term stability.
To find a counselor:
Call HUD's toll-free hotline at 800-569-4287.
Search online using the HUD Housing Counseling Agency locator tool on the HUD.gov website.
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents do I typically need to apply for Wisconsin rent relief?
Most programs require proof of identity (like a driver's license), a copy of your current lease agreement, documentation of your household income (such as pay stubs), and any past-due rent or eviction notices you have received. Having these documents ready can speed up your application process significantly.
Will applying for rental assistance in Wisconsin affect my credit score?
No, applying for and receiving rental assistance will not impact your credit score. These funds are typically grants, not loans, and are not reported to credit bureaus. The primary goal of these programs is to provide financial support to prevent housing instability without creating future debt for tenants.
Does my landlord have to participate for me to receive rent relief funds?
Landlord cooperation is often preferred, as many programs send payments directly to them. However, if a landlord is unresponsive or unwilling to participate, some programs may offer alternative solutions, such as mediation services or, in some cases, payments made directly to the tenant with proper documentation.
What rent relief is available in Wisconsin for single adults without children?
Single adults can find Wisconsin rent relief options through their local Community Action Agency (CAA). These agencies administer various homelessness prevention funds and housing stability services that are not restricted to families with children. Contacting your county's CAA is the best first step to see what support is available.
I have an eviction notice. What is the fastest way to get rental help?
If you are facing immediate eviction, you should simultaneously contact 2-1-1 Wisconsin to be connected with emergency services and seek legal counsel. Organizations like Legal Action of Wisconsin offer free legal aid to eligible tenants, which can be critical for navigating the eviction process while securing financial help.
Can I apply for more than one rental assistance program in Wisconsin at the same time?
Yes, you can generally apply for assistance from multiple sources, such as a state program and a local community-based organization. It is important to be transparent with each agency about other applications to avoid duplication of benefits for the same expense, which is typically not allowed.
Are there specific income limits to qualify for Wisconsin rent relief?
Yes, nearly all Wisconsin rent relief programs have income eligibility requirements, typically based on the Area Median Income (AMI) of your county. These programs are designed to assist low-to-moderate income households. Specific income thresholds vary, so you must check the guidelines for each program you apply for.
Where can I find free legal help for eviction issues in Wisconsin?
Free legal assistance for tenants facing eviction is available from several sources. Legal Action of Wisconsin and Judicare Legal Aid provide no-cost legal services to eligible, low-income residents across the state. They can help you understand your rights and represent you in court proceedings.
Do any Wisconsin housing programs also help with past-due utility bills?
Yes, some housing stability programs can assist with utility arrears alongside rent. The primary resource is the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP), which helps eligible households with heating and electric costs. Local agencies that manage rent relief often help you connect with WHEAP as well.
Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to get rental assistance in Wisconsin?
Eligibility requirements vary by funding source. While some federally funded programs may require a specific immigration status, many local and community-based nonprofit organizations in Wisconsin offer rent relief and other support services regardless of citizenship. Always inquire directly with a local agency about their specific policies.
Facing a disability shouldn't limit your potential. Private grants bridge the gap between government programs and individual needs, offering financial assistance for essential equipment, home modifications, and educational opportunities that empower you to live a more fulfilling life.
Imagine buying your dream home in Dallas without the stress of a massive down payment or confusing closing costs. Dallas home buyer assistance programs can make that dream a reality, offering a variety of options to help you unlock the door to homeownership – keep reading to discover how!
Are you wondering if your EBT card can unlock a hot, delicious Pizza Hut meal? The answer isn't a straightforward yes for every location, but a special initiative known as the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) makes it possible for eligible individuals in certain states. Discover how this program works and if your local Pizza Hut participates, potentially offering a convenient dining solution when cooking at home isn't an option.
NationalReliefProgram.org does not offer or endorse any specific debt relief services. Our mission is to provide information and resources to empower you to make informed decisions.
NationalReliefProgram.org is a private organization and is not affiliated with any government agency.