The City of Janesville Rental Assistance Waiting List is currently closed, and Housing Services is no longer accepting applications at this time. Please continue to check our website or any updates.  

How to Apply

The City of Janesville rental assistance wait list is currently closed. The wait list opening is typically advertised in the media or you may call the Rent Assistance hotline at (608) 755-3127. The recording will indicate whether or not the wait list is open.

Wait List Application FAQ's

What happens after someone is determined to be eligible for the program?

If your household is determined to be eligible, an orientation will be scheduled that will explain the rules and regulations of the program.  Attendees will receive a Housing Choice Voucher which will enable them to decide where they would like to live (in their current unit or move to a new unit).  The rental unit chosen must be decent, safe and sanitary to qualify for assistance.  The landlord must agree to work with the Rent Assistance Program.  The landlord will complete a Request for Tenancy Approval form and return it to our office with an unsigned lease.   The initial lease must be for 1 year.  A Housing Specialist will review the paperwork for affordability and rent reasonableness and schedule an inspection of the unit.   Once the unit passes inspection, the participant can sign the lease and we will begin payment of our Rent Assistance on the first of the following month.

How does an applicant find out where they are on the wait list?

Unfortunately, applicants can no longer find out where they are on the wait list. After the wait list closes, all applications are randomly sorted and will be drawn from that list. Applications are no longer drawn in regards to the date/time they were submitted. 

How long does it take to get on the Rent Assistance Program?

The wait list for housing varies and is constantly changing.  It is impossible to predict when an individual’s name will come to the top of the list and be drawn.  It depends on our funding and on the number of families who end participation in the program.

Does the Housing Authority provide emergency housing?

No, the Housing Authority does not provide emergency housing.  We recommend going to the Resource page on our website for information concerning emergency housing. 

Does the Housing Authority have preferences for families on the wait list?

The City of Janesville Rent Assistance Program has a local preference.   Individuals who live or work in the City of Janesville when their name comes to the top of the wait list will receive assistance before others who do not have this local preference.

Is the Rent Assistance Program only for families with children?

No.  A family can be made up of one or more persons.  Eligibility is based on income.  You must be considered low income to be eligible.  Income is based upon Rock County median income guidelines.    See Income Guidelines on this website.

What happens if an applicant has a change of address while on the wait list?

It is the applicant’s responsibility to notify the Rent Assistance office immediately of any change in address or employment as it may affect your local preference status on the wait list.  Any change must be reported in writing.

Is there other subsidized housing available in Janesville?

Yes.  Below is a list of privately-run subsidized housing in Janesville.  They each have their own admission rules and should be contacted directly to inquire about an application and availability of units.

For elderly or disabled:

For non elderly:

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