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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 The state's support system has changed significantly since the pandemic, with several large-scale programs no longer active.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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 | Phone: 414-895-RENT (7368) Website: RentHelpMKE.org |
| Dane | Tenant Resource Center / Eviction Diversion and Defense Partnership (EDDP) | Phone: 608-257-0006 Website: tenantresourcecenter.org |
| Waukesha | Housing Action Coalition of Waukesha County (Referral Source) | Website: waukeshacoc.org |
| Rock, Walworth | Community Action, Inc. | Website: community-action.org |
| Fond du Lac, Calumet, Green Lake, Winnebago | ADVOCAP | Phone: 920-922-7760 Website: advocap.org |
| Marquette, Outagamie, Portage, Waupaca, Waushara | CAP Services | Phone: 1-844-314-8004 Website: capservices.org |
| Adams, Columbia, Dodge, Juneau, Sauk | Central Wisconsin Community Action Council (CWCAC) | Phone: 608-254-8353 Website: cwcac.org |
| Crawford, La Crosse, Monroe, Vernon | Couleecap | Phone: 1-844-267-0033 Website: couleecap.org |
| Door, Kewaunee, Manitowoc, Sheboygan | Lakeshore CAP | Phone: 920-682-3737 Website: lakeshorecap.org |
| Brown, Florence, Forest, Langlade, Marinette, Menominee, Oconto, Oneida, Shawano, Vilas | NEWCAP | Phone: 800-242-7334 Website: newcap.org |
| Lincoln, Marathon, Wood | North Central Community Action Program (NCCAP) | Phone: 715-842-0681 Website: northcentralcap.org |
| Ashland, Bayfield, Douglas, Iron, Price | Northwest Wisconsin Community Services Agency (NWCSA) | Phone: 715-392-5127 Website: northwest-csa.org |
| Racine, Kenosha | Racine Kenosha Community Action Agency (RKCAA) | Racine: 262-637-8377 Kenosha: 262-657-0840 Website: rkcaa.org |
| Grant, Green, Iowa, Lafayette, Richland | 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 |
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
In a time of skyrocketing rents and housing instability, a surprising source of support is emerging for those struggling to secure a home: churches. Discover how these faith communities are stepping up to offer vital financial assistance, often in partnership with broader community initiatives, to help individuals and families overcome the hurdle of the security deposit.
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