Housing assistance in Wisconsin

Where to apply for rental assistance and vouchers

Section 8 vouchers and public housing are run by local public housing agencies (PHAs). Each keeps its own waiting list, so apply to every agency serving places you could live. The state housing finance agency funds affordable apartments and homebuyer programs but usually does not take voucher applications.

Ask each agency: Is the waiting list open? How do I apply, and how will you contact me? Never pay to apply or to move up a list. See how to apply for Section 8 and how waiting lists work.

Programs and free legal help in Wisconsin

No statewide emergency rent program? Most rent help is local. Call 211 and ask which county, charity, or community action programs are taking applications now. See emergency rental assistance.

Key tenant laws in Wisconsin

Statewide rules for most private rentals. Cities, counties, subsidized housing, and your lease can add protections, and some rules have exceptions. Read the linked law before relying on a deadline.

Deposit return deadline

Within 21 days after the tenant moves out. If the tenant leaves before the lease ends, the 21 days run from the last day of the lease or the day a new tenant moves in, whichever comes first. Any deductions must be listed in a written itemized statement.

Wis. Stat. § 704.28; Wis. Admin. Code ATCP 134.06

Notice before an eviction for unpaid rent

Month-to-month tenants can be given a written 14-day notice to vacate, with no chance to pay. Tenants on a lease must first get a written 5-day notice to pay or move out. If they pay and are late again within 12 months, the landlord can give a 14-day notice with no chance to pay.

Wis. Stat. § 704.17

Landlord entry notice

At least 12 hours' advance notice before entering, except in emergencies, unless the tenant allows entry on shorter notice or the lease sets a different timeline.

Wis. Admin. Code ATCP 134.09(2)(a)2; Wis. Stat. § 704.05

Rent increases and rent control

No state law limits the amount of a rent increase.

DATCP Tenants' Rights and Responsibilities (rev. 10/23)

This is general information, not legal advice. If you have a notice or court papers, contact legal aid right away. See facing eviction, security deposit rights, and repairs and habitability.

Phone lines that serve Wisconsin

• Shelter, rent help, and local services211
• HUD-approved housing counseling800-569-4287
• Housing discrimination complaints (HUD)800-669-9777
• Energy assistance referral (LIHEAP)866-674-6327
• Veterans at risk of homelessness877-424-3838
• Domestic violence hotline800-799-7233

More local contacts: HUD’s Wisconsin resource page.

Next steps

1. Urgent? If you need shelter tonight or have an eviction court date, start with urgent housing help.
2. Behind on rent: call 211 and apply to several programs at once. Use our payment plan letter to propose terms to your landlord in writing.
3. Long-term help: apply to every housing agency above, plus income-restricted apartments. Gather your documents first.
4. Check affordability: use the rent affordability calculator or the Section 8 rent calculator.

Sources

Checked October 10, 2026. Laws, programs, and agency websites change; confirm details with the agency or court before relying on them. Report a correction.

1. Tenants' Rights and Responsibilities (LT-TenantsRights143, rev 10/23)Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection
2. Energy Assistance (WHEAP)Wisconsin Division of Energy, Housing and Community Resources
3. Housing ServicesLegal Action of Wisconsin
4. Housing Authority of the City of MilwaukeeHousing Authority of the City of Milwaukee
5. Housing Authority of the City of Milwaukee (article listing official site)Wikipedia
6. CDA HousingCity of Madison
7. Dane County Housing AuthorityDane County Housing Authority