Starting February 1, 2025, Wisconsin will launch a new initiative to provide housing support services to Wisconsin Medicaid members experiencing housing insecurity who are also affected by substance use or mental health conditions. Wisconsin is one of the first states in the country to use housing solutions funded through Medicaid to achieve improved health outcomes for members.

To use this new benefit, Wisconsin Medicaid members must be at least 18 years old, experiencing or be at risk of homelessness, have a substance use or mental health condition, and meet specific income thresholds. The services available will help them:

• Develop a plan to get housing and take initial steps, like obtaining service referrals.
• Get help finding housing, working with landlords, getting safety inspections, and connecting to community resources.
• Understand renter and landlord responsibilities, develop skills that help them be a good tenant, and make plans to reduce the risk of eviction.
• Cover initial setup expenses, like security deposits, pest control, and utility activation.

The benefit does not cover rent or ongoing expenses but does provide ongoing assistance and counseling.

Find more information about this housing benefit on the DHS website.