Is Source of Income Discrimination Illegal in Arkansas?

Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Arkansas published: June 21, 2025 Flag of Arkansas

As a renter in Arkansas, you may wonder if your landlord can refuse to rent to you based on how you pay your rent—such as with a Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8), disability income, or other legal sources. This is called 'source of income discrimination.' We explain how Arkansas law treats these situations, what rights you have, and what steps you can take if you experience discrimination.

What Is Source of Income Discrimination?

Source of income discrimination happens when a landlord refuses to rent, renew a lease, or otherwise treats a renter unfairly because of how they pay their rent, such as government vouchers, Social Security, child support, or disability payments. This type of discrimination is sometimes banned by states or cities, but protections differ across the country.

Does Arkansas Ban Source of Income Discrimination?

As of 2024, Arkansas does not have a state law forbidding landlords from refusing to rent to someone because of their lawful income source. This means there is no statewide protection against landlords denying applications solely due to Section 8 vouchers, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or other benefits as payment for rent.[1]

This is different from some other states and cities, where such discrimination is illegal. In Arkansas, landlords generally retain the right to decide whether to accept different forms of rent payment, unless a federal law applies.

How Does Federal Law Apply?

The Federal Fair Housing Act [2] protects against discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, and familial status—but not source of income. However, if income source is closely tied to a protected class (for example, disability benefits for renters with disabilities), there may be additional legal protections.

What Can Renters Do If Facing Discrimination?

If you believe you were denied housing because of your source of income (like a voucher), and it overlaps with a protected category (such as disability), you can:

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What Forms and Processes Are Involved?

  • Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (HUD-903 Online or PDF)
    • When to use it: If you believe a landlord has discriminated against you based on a Fair Housing Act protected class (race, family status, disability, etc.), including when your source of income discrimination overlaps with these categories.
    • How it's used: You fill out the form with your information and details about the incident. HUD will review your complaint and may investigate. This can be submitted online or by mail.
    • Learn more and access the official HUD complaint form here.

Currently, Arkansas does not have additional state-level forms for reporting source of income discrimination as part of tenant protections.

Who Handles Rental Disputes in Arkansas?

Arkansas does not have a dedicated residential tenancy board. Most landlord-tenant disputes, including fair housing issues, are handled through local courts and federal agencies.

What Laws Govern Arkansas Rental Housing?

Arkansas's main law is the Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007, found at Ark. Code Ann. § 18-17-101 et seq.[1] However, it does not mention source of income as a protected class. Federal protections apply only where discrimination overlaps with categories covered by the Fair Housing Act.

Key tip: If your income source is directly tied to a federally protected category (like disability), be sure to note this on any complaints or when talking to housing authorities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  1. Can my Arkansas landlord refuse to accept Section 8 or other housing vouchers?
    Yes, Arkansas landlords are allowed to decline rental applications whose payments come from housing vouchers or certain other income sources, unless refusal is linked to a protected category under federal law.
  2. What protections do I have if I feel discriminated against in Arkansas?
    Unless discrimination is based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, or family status, Arkansas does not offer source of income protection. For these protected groups, you can file a HUD complaint.
  3. Are there any Arkansas cities with local laws against source of income discrimination?
    As of 2024, there are no known Arkansas cities or counties with local laws banning source of income discrimination for renters.
  4. How do I file a federal housing discrimination complaint?
    Visit the HUD online complaint portal, complete the HUD-903 form, and submit supporting documents if possible.
  5. Is there an official agency in Arkansas that can help with tenant disputes?
    While there is no state tenant board, your local District Court or the HUD Arkansas Field Office can provide guidance or process rental disputes.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Arkansas Renters

  • Arkansas law does not ban source of income discrimination, so landlords may reject vouchers or certain income types.
  • Federal protections apply only if the discrimination is also related to race, gender, disability, or other protected status.
  • If you think discrimination is tied to a protected category, promptly file a HUD complaint for investigation.

Knowing your rights helps you navigate the rental market and respond effectively to any unfair practices.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

  1. Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007, Ark. Code Ann. § 18-17-101 et seq. (full law text)
  2. Federal Fair Housing Act: overview and official language

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights USA

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.

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