Understanding LIHTC Rental Housing in Arkansas

Finding safe, quality, and affordable housing is essential for many Arkansas renters. The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program offers affordable rental opportunities statewide. Understanding how these properties work, who qualifies, and your renter rights is important for making informed choices about your home.

What Are LIHTC Properties?

LIHTC (Low-Income Housing Tax Credit) properties are rental homes developed using federal tax credits, designed to keep rents affordable for low to moderate-income households. In Arkansas, these properties are managed and overseen by the Arkansas Development Finance Authority (ADFA), a division of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission.

• Rents are capped and generally below market rates
• Tenants must meet income eligibility requirements
• Properties include apartments and multi-family units across the state

LIHTC properties are not the same as public housing or Section 8, though you may also apply for LIHTC units if you use a Housing Choice Voucher.

Who Is Eligible for LIHTC Rental Housing in Arkansas?

To qualify for a LIHTC rental unit in Arkansas:

• Your household income must be below a set percentage—usually 60%—of the Area Median Income (AMI). This threshold changes yearly and varies by county.
• You may be required to provide proof of income, identification, and rental history.

Eligibility does not require citizenship, but landlords may request Social Security Numbers for identity verification. Always review the specific property's eligibility guidelines.

How to Find and Apply for LIHTC Properties

Searching for a LIHTC rental is a little different than regular apartment hunting. Here’s how:

• Review the ADFA list of affordable housing properties statewide.
• Contact properties directly about unit availability and application processes.
• Prepare to provide proof of household income and any required forms.

Many LIHTC properties have waitlists. Always ask about the expected timeline and update your contact information if it changes.

Common Tenant Rights in LIHTC Housing

Arkansas renters have important rights even in LIHTC properties. While landlords must comply with additional tax credit rules, tenancy in LIHTC housing is also protected under Arkansas state law and standard lease agreements.

• Landlords must maintain a habitable unit—including safe wiring, plumbing, and basic utilities
• Evictions must follow the state’s legal process
• Rent increases and occupancy changes must meet LIHTC and state requirements

For details, see the Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act and consult your lease for additional property rules.^[1]

Official Forms for Renters

• Arkansas Residential Rental Application (no formal state number): Used to apply for any rental unit (including LIHTC housing). Example: Submit this form to the property manager when applying for a unit. Download a sample from the ADFA Resources Page.
• Arkansas Notice to Vacate (no formal state number): Used by tenants to notify landlords when ending a lease. Example: After fulfilling your lease, you’d deliver this notice (with required advance warning) to your LIHTC landlord. More info at the ADFA tenant info page.
• Arkansas Rental Complaint Form (ADFA): Used to report possible violations in LIHTC properties (e.g., unsafe conditions or discrimination). Example: If needed, complete the complaint form and submit it to the ADFA. Get this and instructions from ADFA's complaint portal.

Filing a Rental Complaint in Arkansas

For issues at LIHTC properties, you can:

• Contact the property management first
• If unresolved, file a complaint using the ADFA Rental Complaint Form

Serious safety, health, or discrimination issues may be reported to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) as well.

Which Tribunal Handles Arkansas Rental Disputes?

Rental disputes in Arkansas are handled by your local Circuit Court. These courts can address eviction cases, tenant complaints, and lease disputes.

For information about the legal process, visit the Arkansas Access to Justice Commission.

FAQ About LIHTC Properties in Arkansas

1. Who qualifies for LIHTC rental housing in Arkansas?
   Households earning less than a set percentage of the Area Median Income and meeting the property’s screening criteria may qualify for LIHTC housing. Requirements can vary by county and specific property.
2. How do I apply for a LIHTC unit?
   Find eligible properties on the ADFA website, contact property managers for openings, and submit a rental application with proof of income.
3. Can LIHTC landlords raise my rent?
   Rent increases must comply with both state rules and federal LIHTC limits, which typically cap how much rent can increase each year.
4. Are LIHTC tenants protected from unfair eviction?
   Yes, eviction in Arkansas—including from LIHTC housing—must follow the procedures set out by state law and cannot happen without proper notice or grounds.
5. Where do I get help if my LIHTC unit has serious maintenance issues?
   Contact your property manager first. If problems are not resolved, file a complaint through the ADFA’s official channels or seek help from the local court.

Key Takeaways for Arkansas Renters

• LIHTC properties offer regulated, affordable housing for eligible Arkansas renters
• Check your eligibility, apply early, and keep copies of all key documents
• Know your rights under the Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act, and reach out for support if you encounter problems

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Arkansas Development Finance Authority (ADFA) – Find affordable units, report complaints, and access tenant info
• HUD Arkansas Resources – Learn about fair housing and federal rental assistance
• Arkansas Legal Services – Get free or low-cost legal advice for renters
• Arkansas Access to Justice Commission – Court information for self-represented renters

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1. Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act of 2007 (Ark. Code. Ann. § 18-17-101 et seq.)
2. Arkansas Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Program (ADFA)
3. Arkansas Circuit Courts Directory

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