Frequently Asked Questions

This website provides information and guidance to help you prepare your application, but the application process itself may require paper forms and in-person submission.

Current process:

• Visit our Public Housing or Housing Choice Voucher program pages for specific instructions on how to obtain and submit an application.
• Applications may need to be picked up at the PHA office or requested by phone.
• Completed applications may need to be returned in person during designated office hours.

Check waitlist status:

If you have already applied, you can check your waitlist status using the Waitlist Status Portal. This portal is hosted by a third-party provider and will open in a new window. You will need your Social Security number to look up your status.

Questions?

Contact PHA at (309) 676-8736 for the most current application instructions and to confirm whether the waitlist is open for your program.

You can check your waitlist status using PHA's official waitlist portal:

Check Waitlist Status (opens external site)

Before you go: This link takes you to an external system managed by a third party. The portal will ask for your Social Security number to verify your identity. PHA's main website will never ask for your SSN. Do not share sensitive information through any forms on our website.

If you cannot access the online portal or need help, you can:

• Call us at (309) 676-8736 during business hours
• Visit our office at 100 S. Richard Pryor Place, Peoria, IL 61605
• Use our contact form

Keep your contact information current to receive updates about your waitlist position.

When you apply for housing assistance, you will typically need to provide documents that verify your identity, income, and household composition. Common documents include:

Identification

• Government-issued photo ID for all adults (driver's license, state ID, passport)
• Social Security cards for all household members
• Birth certificates or proof of age for children

Income and Assets

• Pay stubs (recent, usually last 30–60 days)
• Benefit award letters (Social Security, SSI, TANF, etc.)
• Bank statements
• Tax returns (if self-employed)

Other

• Proof of current address (utility bill, lease, etc.)
• Custody documents (if applicable)

The specific documents required may vary by program and your household's situation. Visit our Apply page for program-specific checklists, or contact PHA at (309) 676-8736 to confirm what you need before submitting your application.

Important: Do not send Social Security numbers or sensitive documents through this website. Bring original documents in person or follow instructions provided by PHA staff.

Both programs help low-income families afford safe housing, but they work differently:

Public Housing

• You live in a housing development owned and managed by the Peoria Housing Authority (PHA).
• PHA sets your rent based on your income (generally 30% of adjusted income).
• Maintenance and property management are handled by PHA staff.
• Learn more on our Public Housing program page.

Housing Choice Voucher (HCV / Section 8)

• You find your own rental home in the private market with a participating landlord.
• PHA pays a portion of your rent directly to the landlord; you pay the remainder.
• The unit must pass a housing quality inspection before you can move in.
• Learn more on our Housing Choice Voucher program page.

Which program is right for you?

Both programs have income eligibility requirements and waitlists that may be open or closed at different times. If you're not sure which program fits your situation, visit our Apply page for guidance or call us at (309) 676-8736.

Peoria Housing Authority (PHA) offers two main housing assistance programs:

Public Housing — Affordable rental housing owned and operated by PHA in developments throughout Peoria County. Rent is based on your income.

Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) — A rental assistance program where you find your own housing in the private market, and PHA pays a portion of your rent directly to the landlord.

Both programs have income eligibility requirements and may have waitlists. Visit the Apply page to learn how to apply, or call (309) 676-8736 with questions.

Start at the Apply for Housing page and choose the program you are interested in—either Public Housing or Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8). Each program page explains how applications are currently handled, including where to get one and how to submit it.

Application availability and steps can change depending on waitlist status and program requirements. Call the main office at (309) 676-8736 to confirm the current process before visiting.

Need help? Visit our Contact page for phone numbers, office hours, and other ways to reach us.

Note: The waitlist status portal is for checking your place on an existing waitlist—not for submitting a new application.