Indiana Affordable Housing Income Limits: What Renters Need to Know

Finding safe, affordable housing can be challenging, but Indiana offers various programs to help renters. Understanding income limits is a key part of qualifying for affordable housing or rental assistance in Indiana. This guide breaks down current eligibility rules, official forms, and where you can get help if you think you qualify.

Understanding Income Limits for Indiana Affordable Housing

Many state and federal affordable housing programs use income limits to determine if you qualify for assistance. These limits are updated annually and can vary by county, household size, and the specific program. In Indiana, most affordable housing programs—including Section 8 and Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) properties—base their eligibility on the Area Median Income (AMI).

What is the Area Median Income (AMI)?

The Area Median Income is the midpoint of a region's income. In Indiana, income limits are typically set at percentages of the AMI:

• Extremely Low Income: 30% of AMI
• Very Low Income: 50% of AMI
• Low Income: 80% of AMI

You can find the latest Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority (IHCDA) income limits and lookup tools on their official site. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) also provides up-to-date AMI charts and area-specific limits for Indiana at their HUD Income Limits portal.

Key Programs with Income Limits

Let's review how income limits apply to some common Indiana affordable housing programs:

• Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program: Income must be below 50% of your area's AMI. Preference is given to households at or below 30% of AMI. See official program details through IHCDA Section 8 resources.
• Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) properties: Income usually must not exceed 60% of AMI.
• Public Housing: Similar limits to Section 8, administered by local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs).

Check the specific requirements for your local area and program of interest, as some may have additional rules or preferences.

Official Forms for Indiana Renters

To apply for affordable housing or rental assistance in Indiana, you will typically complete official application forms provided by the administering agency or housing provider. Here are two frequently used forms:

• Indiana Section 8 Housing Voucher Application (no universal form; each local agency provides its own):
  • When and How to Use: Complete when applying for Section 8 vouchers. Submit to your local Public Housing Authority (PHA). Example: If you live in Marion County, find the form via the Indianapolis Housing Agency Section 8 portal.
• Indiana Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) Pre-Application (each property provides its own):
  • When and How to Use: Use this when applying for LIHTC properties. The property manager will provide the correct paperwork during the intake process. Visit the IHCDA property search page to find LIHTC properties near you.

Remember, there is no single statewide application for these programs. Always use the form given by the agency or property where you are applying.

Who Oversees Rental Issues in Indiana?

In Indiana, there is no single tribunal or board dedicated solely to residential tenancy disputes, but housing matters such as rental assistance eligibility or evictions are generally handled through your local superior or circuit court, depending on your county. For concerns about tenant rights or fair housing, contact the Indiana Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division. Eviction cases specifically must follow the state’s court process.

Relevant Indiana Landlord-Tenant Legislation

• Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31 – Landlord-Tenant Relations
• Indiana Security Deposit Law – IC 32-31-3

This legislation sets out landlord and tenant rights for rental properties in Indiana, including tenant protections related to housing programs and evictions.¹

How Income Limits Affect Your Housing Options

It’s important to review current income charts and eligibility regularly. If your household income changes, you may need to update program administrators to stay compliant and avoid losing benefits.

Action Steps if You Think You Qualify

If you believe you meet the income limits for affordable housing:

• Find your local Public Housing Authority or LIHTC property manager
• Request the correct application form
• Gather proof of income, identification, and required documents
• Submit your completed form as instructed, and follow up if you don’t receive a response in a reasonable time

Indiana Affordable Housing Income Limit FAQ

1. How do I find out if I qualify for Indiana Section 8?
   You must meet the income limits set by your area's AMI (usually 50% or less), provide required documents, and apply through your local Public Housing Authority. Waitlists are common. Visit the IHCDA Section 8 site for details.
2. Are income limits different in each Indiana county?
   Yes. HUD and IHCDA both set limits by county and household size, so always check the most recent charts for your area.
3. Can I apply for multiple affordable housing programs at once?
   Yes, you can apply for as many as you qualify for, but you must follow each agency's process and fill out their forms separately.
4. What happens if my income changes after I qualify?
   You must notify your housing provider promptly. Your rent and eligibility may change if your income rises or falls.
5. Where can I get help applying for rental assistance in Indiana?
   Local housing authorities or non-profit organizations can guide you. See the resources section below for official help.

Key Takeaways

• Indiana affordable housing programs use income limits based on household size and location.
• Always use official agency application forms linked to your local PHA or property.
• Stay up to date with annual income changes and notify agencies if your situation changes.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority (IHCDA) – Official info, program details, and application links
• HUD Income Limit Lookup – Check the latest income limits by county and household size
• Indianapolis Housing Agency – Apply for Section 8 locally
• Indiana Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division – Tenant complaints and legal information
• Indiana Landlord-Tenant Law

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1. Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31 – Landlord-Tenant Relations
2. Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority (IHCDA)
3. HUD: Income Limits
4. Indiana Attorney General Tenant Resources

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