Arizona Affordable Housing Income Limits: What Renters Need to Know

Understanding income limits is crucial if you're a renter in Arizona hoping to qualify for affordable housing or rental assistance programs. Income limits determine who is eligible for subsidized housing, including Section 8 and other local programs. Here, you'll learn how these limits work, how to check your eligibility, and what forms or agencies are involved—all explained in straightforward terms, so you can make informed decisions about your housing options.

How Income Limits Work for Affordable Housing in Arizona

Affordable housing programs in Arizona—including federal programs like Section 8 (Housing Choice Voucher) and Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) properties—use income limits to decide who qualifies. These limits are set annually by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and they vary by household size and county.

Types of Income Limits

• Very Low Income: Usually 50% of the area median income (AMI).
• Low Income: Up to 80% of AMI.
• Extremely Low Income: Typically 30% of AMI or less.

The limits differ between Phoenix, Tucson, and rural areas. Check the latest figures directly from HUD’s official income limits dataset.

Why Income Limits Matter

Income limits affect your eligibility for:

• Section 8 Vouchers in Arizona
• Low-Income Public Housing
• Project-Based Rental Assistance
• Tax Credit Units

If your household income exceeds the limit for your area and household size, you may not qualify for certain programs.

How to Check Your Eligibility in Arizona

You can view current income limits and eligibility details on the Arizona Department of Housing (ADOH) website.

• Choose your county or city for local figures.
• Select your household size to see your income bracket.
• Compare your gross yearly income before taxes.

If unsure, many local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) can help you check eligibility.

Official Forms for Arizona Affordable Housing

• Arizona Section 8 Pre-Application Form:
  • When to use: If you want to join the waiting list for a Section 8 voucher.
  • Practical example: Maria lives in Tucson and wants a subsidized apartment. She completes the form at her local PHA to be added to the waitlist.
  • Get the official Section 8 Pre-Application (Arizona)
• Income Verification Form (HUD Form 9886):
  • When to use: Used during application and recertification to authorize housing authorities to verify your income with employers and benefit agencies.
  • Practical example: Jamal is renewing his eligibility and completes this form as part of the annual review.
  • Download HUD Form 9886: Authorization for the Release of Information

Which Board or Tribunal Handles Disputes in Arizona?

If you have questions about affordable housing programs or need help with tenant-landlord issues, the main contact is the Arizona Department of Housing. For legal disputes regarding rental housing (including evictions), the appropriate authority is usually your local Arizona Justice Court in the county where you live.

Arizona’s main tenancy laws are found in the Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (A.R.S. Title 33, Chapter 10).¹

What Happens If Your Income Changes?

If your income changes, report it to your local PHA or program manager immediately. Program rules often require you to notify them in writing within 10 days if your household income increases or decreases, which could affect your eligibility or rent amount.

FAQ: Income Limits and Affordable Housing in Arizona

1. How often are Arizona income limits updated?
   Income limits are updated every year, usually in the spring, based on new data from HUD.
2. Can I still apply if my income is just over the limit?
   No, eligibility is strict. If your income goes over the limit—even by a small amount—you may not qualify for that housing program.
3. Who counts as part of my household?
   Anyone living with you and sharing income/resources—family members, roommates, dependents—counts in your household size.
4. What documents do I need for verification?
   Typically, you’ll need recent pay stubs, benefit award letters, tax returns, and the completed HUD Form 9886.
5. Which agency decides if I’m eligible?
   Your local Public Housing Authority (PHA) or the program administrator makes the official eligibility decision based on the rules and your documents.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Arizona Renters

If you’re seeking affordable housing in Arizona:

• Check the latest income limits for your area each year.
• File the right forms—like the Section 8 pre-application and income verification—through your local PHA.
• Report any changes in income promptly to stay in compliance and keep your benefits.

Staying informed helps you keep your affordable housing or maximize your options.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Arizona

• Arizona Department of Housing – Affordable Housing Programs
• HUD Arizona Rental Assistance Information
• Arizona Courts – Landlord & Tenant Dispute Forms
• Arizona Self Help – Tenant Resources

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1. Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (A.R.S. Title 33, Chapter 10)
2. HUD Income Limits – Latest Data
3. Arizona Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program
4. Arizona Department of Housing – Renters

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