Delaware Affordable Housing Income Limits Explained

If you’re a renter in Delaware searching for more affordable housing or help with rising rent, understanding income limits is key. Income limits determine whether you qualify for programs like public housing, Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8), or Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) units. This guide explains how Delaware’s income limits work, where to check them, and what they mean for your rental assistance eligibility.

How Income Limits Work in Delaware Affordable Housing Programs

Income limits set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) help decide who can apply for state and federal affordable housing programs. These limits are based on the Area Median Income (AMI) and household size, and they change each year.

• Updated annually to reflect local economic conditions and household needs
• Apply to programs like public housing, Section 8 vouchers, and LIHTC properties
• Eligibility is typically reserved for households earning below a set percentage of the AMI (often 30%, 50%, or 80%)

2024 Income Limits for Delaware

The HUD Income Limits for Delaware are broken down by county and family size. For example, in New Castle County for 2024:

• 1-person household: Low-income (80% AMI) limit is $61,750
• 4-person household: Low-income (80% AMI) limit is $88,200

Check the full Delaware HUD Income Limits chart for your area and family size.

Main Delaware Affordable Housing Programs

• Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) units: Rents capped and income limits apply
• Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8): For very low-income families
• Public Housing: Eligibility based on household income and size

Each program uses slightly different income thresholds, but all rely on the same HUD figures for eligibility.

How to Check and Use Delaware Income Limits

To find out whether you qualify:

• Visit the Delaware State Housing Authority Renters portal
• Compare your gross annual household income (before taxes) to the limit listed for your county and family size
• Check the requirements for each program, because some may adjust or have different definitions of "income"

Key Income-Verification Forms and How They’re Used

• HUD Form 9886 - Authorization for the Release of Information/Privacy Act Notice
  When used: Required when you apply for federal rental assistance or public housing so DSHA or a public housing authority (PHA) can confirm your income.
  Example: If you’re applying for Section 8, you’ll sign this form so officials can verify your wages, Social Security, or other income.
  Download from HUD.gov
• DSHA Rental Assistance Application
  When used: Submitted when you’re applying for any DSHA rental or housing voucher program.
  Example: Complete this form with your income details to join the waitlist for affordable housing.
  Access official DSHA forms here
• Annual Income Recertification Forms
  When used: Each year, tenants living in affordable units or using vouchers must submit updated income information.
  Example: Your property manager or housing agency will give you the correct recertification form to ensure you’re still eligible.

Submitting these forms accurately is vital to prove you remain eligible and avoid losing your housing assistance.

Understanding Tenant Rights and Oversight in Delaware

The Delaware Justice of the Peace Court is the official tribunal for landlord-tenant matters, including disputes over evictions and housing assistance eligibility.

Key tenancy rights and rules come from the Delaware Residential Landlord-Tenant Code. This code governs lease agreements, rent increases, maintenance, and eviction process for most residential properties in the state.

Even if you don’t qualify for a specific affordable housing program, you still have strong tenant rights under Delaware law, including protections against unlawful eviction and the right to safe housing.

FAQ: Delaware Affordable Housing Income Limits

1. How are income limits calculated for affordable housing in Delaware?
   Income limits are based on the Area Median Income (AMI) set by HUD. Limits change each year and depend on both your household size and location within Delaware.
2. What happens if my income is slightly above the limit?
   If your income is above the limit, you generally won’t qualify for that program this year, but you may be eligible for other assistance or can reapply if your situation changes.
3. Do I need to report changes in my income to the housing authority?
   Yes. If your income changes while you’re receiving assistance, you must inform DSHA or your PHA right away. Failure to do so can affect your eligibility or assistance amount.
4. Are there affordable housing programs for seniors or people with disabilities in Delaware?
   Yes, several programs have different income limits or preferences for seniors or people with qualified disabilities. Check with DSHA for details.
5. How do I verify the current income limits for my area?
   You can easily check the latest limits on the HUD Income Limits page or contact the Delaware State Housing Authority directly.

Key Takeaways

• Income limits are a crucial part of qualifying for affordable housing in Delaware, and they’re updated every year.
• You’ll need to provide accurate income information with official forms to apply and remain eligible.
• The Delaware Justice of the Peace Court oversees landlord-tenant issues, including disputes about housing assistance.

Knowing where to find and how to use Delaware income limits puts you in control when seeking or keeping affordable housing.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA): Full program info, forms, and application materials
• Justice of the Peace Court Landlord-Tenant Section: Handles disputes and eviction matters
• HUD Delaware Rental Assistance Resources: National and local program directory
• Legal Services Corporation of Delaware: Free or low-cost legal help for renters
• DSHA Renter Forms Library

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1. HUD Income Limits Data
2. Delaware Residential Landlord-Tenant Code
3. Delaware Justice of the Peace Court – Landlord-Tenant Section
4. Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA)

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