Frequently Asked Questions

To qualify for Public Housing or the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program, applicants must meet income guidelines and other eligibility requirements. This may include a background screening, providing complete and accurate application information with all required documentation, and resolving any outstanding obligations to other subsidized housing programs. 

Applicants must first complete an application, indicate the program(s) they are interested in, meet the program’s eligibility requirements, and provide all required documentation. Waiting lists are prioritized based on eligibility, application date, and any approved preference points. Bedroom size is determined according to HUD occupancy standards. 

Preference points are assigned based on the preferences indicated in your application. Applicants must provide documentation to verify eligibility for these points. Examples of accepted documentation include records from social service or local government agencies, DD214, reunification documents, domestic violence verification, and homelessness verification.

Your exact position on the waiting list cannot be provided, as placement depends on several factors, including the date of your application, eligibility, and any approved preference points. Applicants with higher preference points may be placed ahead of others on the list.  You will be contacted when you reach the top of the waiting list. 

There is no accurate way to predict how long an applicant will remain on the waiting list. Wait times depend on factors such as the date of application, approved preference points, family size as it relates to unit eligibility, the number of available units, and when a suitable unit becomes available.

To receive a voucher, you must first apply for the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program and meet the program’s eligibility requirements. If you qualify, you will be placed on the waiting list. Vouchers are offered to eligible applicants when they reach the top of the waiting list. Note: A Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher cannot be used to rent a Sault Ste. Marie Housing Commission Public Housing unit.

We do not provide emergency homeless services or operate an emergency shelter. If you are in need of emergency assistance, please contact the Community Action Agency at 906-632-3363 or the Lodge of Hope (Sault Tribe Members only) at 906-632-5000. For emergencies during non-business hours, dial 9-1-1. 

Yes. We allow (2) approved pets per unit. Residents must have written approval from the Sault Ste. Marie Housing Commission before moving a pet into the unit. There is a $100.00 one-time, non-refundable fee and a $10.00 monthly fee per pet.  

We accept payment via cashier’s check, money order, personal check, or online payment using a credit/debit card. Cash payments will not be accepted.