Your Guide to LIHTC Affordable Housing in Kentucky

Searching for affordable rental housing in Kentucky can be challenging, especially when rising rents or urgent maintenance concerns make stable living seem out of reach. The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program offers thousands of Kentuckians access to safe, affordable apartments—with important renter protections. Here, we explain what LIHTC means for renters, how to qualify, and where to find support—all in simple language.

What Are LIHTC Properties and How Do They Work?

LIHTC (Low-Income Housing Tax Credit) properties are rental buildings financed through federal tax credits, which developers receive in exchange for offering apartments at reduced rents to qualifying low- and moderate-income households. In Kentucky, these programs are overseen by the Kentucky Housing Corporation (KHC), the state’s official affordable housing agency.

Key Benefits for Kentucky Renters

• Reduced, income-based rent that cannot exceed LIHTC program limits
• Properties subject to annual health, safety, and maintenance inspections
• No discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin under the Fair Housing Act

LIHTC communities offer rent protection and long-term affordability, making them a dependable resource for renters facing instability.

Am I Eligible for an LIHTC Apartment in Kentucky?

Your household must meet income limits, which are updated each year and vary by county and household size. Typically, eligible tenants must earn less than 60% of the area median income (AMI). Find current AMI charts and limits through the Kentucky Housing Corporation's income guidelines.

• You'll need proof of income and household size
• Certain LIHTC properties also set aside units for seniors (ages 55+ or 62+), people with disabilities, or families

How to Apply for LIHTC Housing

Ready to apply? Here’s what you need:

• Find eligible LIHTC properties on the official KHC Find a Rental Property tool
• Contact the property manager directly to complete their rental application
• Submit proof of identity, income, and household members as required
• Wait for application processing and be prepared for a possible waitlist

Official Forms for Renters Applying to LIHTC Properties

• Kentucky LIHTC Tenant Income Certification Form (KHC TIC):
  Tenant Income Certification Form
  When to use: This form is filled out by you and property management to document eligibility based on income. For example, if you apply to a LIHTC property, the manager will provide this form for you to complete as part of their screening process.
• Kentucky Fair Housing or Discrimination Complaint Form:
  Office of Kentucky Commission on Human Rights Complaint Form
  When to use: File this if you believe you have been denied a LIHTC apartment due to illegal discrimination. Example: You suspect your application was rejected because of your race or family status.

Your Rights in LIHTC Housing

All LIHTC renters in Kentucky are protected by state and federal rental laws, including:

• The Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA) (applies in participating cities/counties)
• The federal Fair Housing Act

Typical protections include limits on how much your rent can be increased, requirements for prompt repairs, and proper procedures for eviction and notice.

If You Need to Make a Complaint or Seek Help

Issues such as denied applications, unsafe conditions, or discrimination can be addressed formally:

• Maintenance complaints should be directed to your property’s manager in writing first
• If unresolved, renters in urban URLTA areas can file with their District Court (see below for links)
• Discrimination complaints can be filed with the Kentucky Commission on Human Rights
• If threatened with eviction, always request written notice and know your rights under the URLTA

Tribunal or Board Handling Tenancy Disputes

The primary legal tribunal for residential rentals in Kentucky is your local District Court. District Court judges handle landlord-tenant disputes, including eviction, security deposit issues, and habitability complaints.

FAQ: Affordable Housing and LIHTC in Kentucky

1. How do I find LIHTC apartments near me in Kentucky?
   Use the official KHC Find a Rental Property search tool. Filter by ‘Tax Credit’ to view LIHTC listings.
2. What documents do I need to apply for a LIHTC apartment?
   You’ll need proof of income (pay stubs, benefit letters), a photo ID, and details about household members.
3. Can my rent be increased in LIHTC housing?
   Yes, but only within federal and state-approved limits. Rent increases are tied to changes in area median income and posted publicly by the property manager.
4. Who do I contact if my LIHTC landlord won’t do repairs?
   Report issues in writing to management. If not resolved, contact your city/county’s District Court or the Kentucky Housing Corporation.
5. Are evictions different in LIHTC properties?
   Eviction follows standard Kentucky law. You are still protected by eviction notice requirements under the URLTA if it applies in your city/county.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Kentucky Renters Seeking LIHTC Housing

• LIHTC properties provide stable and affordable rentals, with tenant rights protected by Kentucky and federal law
• Check current income limits and eligibility before applying—use KHC’s search tool for the most up-to-date listings
• If issues arise with discrimination, repairs, or eviction, utilize official complaint forms or contact local tribunals for help

Whether you’re struggling with a rent hike or looking for long-term stability, Kentucky’s LIHTC program can be a powerful resource for affordable, safe housing.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Kentucky Housing Corporation (KHC): Central source for LIHTC property search, eligibility, and forms
• District Courts by County: For formal complaints regarding evictions, security deposits, or landlord disputes
• Kentucky Commission on Human Rights: File discrimination complaints in housing
• Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA): Review your legal protections as a renter

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1. Kentucky Housing Corporation
2. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development - LIHTC
3. Kentucky Commission on Human Rights
4. Kentucky District Courts
5. Kentucky Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (URLTA)
6. Federal Fair Housing Act

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