Missouri Affordable Housing Income Limits Explained

Are you a Missouri renter wondering if you qualify for affordable housing or rental assistance? Understanding income limits is key—they determine if you’re eligible for specific programs and how much rent you’ll pay. This guide demystifies Missouri’s current income thresholds and shows you how to check your eligibility step by step.

What Are Income Limits for Affordable Housing?

Income limits are the maximum income amounts households can earn and still qualify for affordable housing programs in Missouri. These limits are updated each year by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and used by local agencies. Limits are determined by household size and the area where you live (county or metropolitan area).

Why Do Income Limits Matter?

• Establish who is eligible for Section 8 vouchers, public housing, and other programs
• Impact the amount of rent you will be required to pay
• Help ensure support goes to households most in need

For 2024, HUD sets Missouri’s income limits by area, classifying them as Extremely Low (usually 30% of area median income), Very Low (50%), and Low (80%). Find current income limit charts for your Missouri county here.

Missouri’s Key Affordable Housing Programs & Income Limits

Missouri renters can seek these main programs:

• Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program — Most households must earn less than 50% of the area median income (AMI) to qualify.
• Public Housing — Eligibility typically capped at 80% of AMI, with priority for lower incomes.
• Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) Apartments — Designed for renters under 60% of AMI.

How to Find Your Local Income Limit

Income limits vary by location and household size. Use these steps:

• Visit HUD’s Income Limits Page
• Select Missouri and your county or metro area
• Match your household size to your area’s latest income limit chart

The Missouri Housing Development Commission (MHDC) also provides a summary of Missouri Housing Choice Voucher income limits.

Applying for Affordable Housing: Forms and Examples

When applying for affordable housing, you’ll need to complete specific government forms and provide income documentation. Two main forms used in Missouri are:

• Application for Rental Assistance (Missouri Housing Choice Voucher)
  How it’s used: Complete this form to apply for Section 8 housing vouchers when your local housing authority opens its waiting list.
  Example: A renter in St. Louis applies after seeing a waiting list opening announcement.
  Access the pre-application form for St. Louis City Section 8
• Annual Recertification and Income Verification Forms
  How it’s used: Once you’re in a program, you’ll use these to update your income and household information each year to maintain eligibility.
  Example: Your local housing authority contacts you to complete an annual household update.
  Learn about annual recertification for Kansas City Section 8 participants

Which Tribunal Handles Missouri Rental Issues?

Missouri residential tenancy disputes, including those related to affordable housing eligibility, are handled by local Missouri Circuit Courts. Issues like eviction, violations, or housing program grievances are initiated in these courts. The main state agency coordinating affordable housing programs is the Missouri Housing Development Commission (MHDC).

Tenant rights and landlord obligations are primarily covered under the Missouri Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.¹

FAQ: Missouri Affordable Housing Income Limits

1. How do I know if my income is within the limit for my area?
   Check HUD’s Missouri income limit charts and match your household size to your county or metro.
2. What happens if my income goes up after I receive assistance?
   Most programs require annual recertification. If your income rises above the limit, your rent share may increase—or you may become ineligible and need to move out with notice.
3. What documents do I need to prove my income when applying?
   Bring recent pay stubs, tax returns, benefit letters, and any proof of all income sources for everyone in your household.
4. Can I appeal if I’m denied affordable housing due to income?
   Yes. You can request a review through your local housing authority. If unresolved, you may file in the Missouri Circuit Court.
5. Are income limits the same across all of Missouri?
   No. Limits vary by county and metro area due to differences in living costs. Always use your local figures.

Summary: Key Takeaways for Missouri Renters

• Income limits are set by HUD and determine affordable housing eligibility across Missouri.
• Check both your local county’s numbers and household size before applying.
• Use official forms and contact your local housing authority with proof of income.

Understanding income eligibility helps you access important rental assistance and affordable housing options with confidence.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Missouri Housing Development Commission (MHDC) — Main state housing agency with program details and contact info
• HUD Missouri Rental Help — Guidance on vouchers, limits, and federal resources
• Missouri Courts Directory — File appeals or tenancy-related legal matters
• Missouri Attorney General—Landlord Tenant Law — Understanding your rights as a renter

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1. Missouri Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Missouri Revised Statutes Chapter 441)
2. HUD Income Limits—Official Data
3. Missouri HCV Income Limits (MHDC)
4. St. Louis Section 8 Waitlist Pre-Application Form

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