How do I know if I am eligible for a LIHTC property in Montana?

Eligibility is based mainly on your household income (usually below 60% AMI) and the number of people in your household. Contact the property manager to verify.

Can my rent go up in a LIHTC apartment?

Rent increases at LIHTC properties are capped by law, can only occur once per year, and follow strict federal and state rent limit guidelines.

Where do I report problems like unsafe housing or incorrect rent at a LIHTC property?

First, contact your property manager in writing. If issues persist, contact Montana Housing or file a case in your local Montana Justice Court.

Which official law protects my rights as a renter in Montana?

The Montana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act of 1977 governs rental relationships, including in LIHTC housing.

Is Section 8 the same as LIHTC?

No. LIHTC provides specific affordable units, while Section 8 is a voucher program. Some LIHTC properties accept vouchers, but these are separate programs.

Understanding LIHTC Affordable Housing in Montana

Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Montana published June 21, 2025

Living in Montana and juggling rising rent or searching for stable, affordable housing? The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program may offer you a path to a secure and affordable home. If you're concerned about renewals, income qualifications, or your rights in affordable housing, this guide breaks it down in simple, practical steps for renters just like you.

What Are LIHTC Properties and How Do They Work in Montana?

The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program is a federal initiative that encourages the creation and preservation of affordable rental housing for low-income households. In Montana, recognized LIHTC properties are built or renovated with federal and state support, and rents are set at restricted, below-market rates for qualifying renters.

Who qualifies? Generally, households earning less than 50% to 60% of the area median income (AMI) are eligible. AMI varies by county—find the most recent limits on the Montana Housing website.
Rent limits: Rents in LIHTC units cannot exceed set amounts, helping keep housing costs predictable.
Screening: Owners may have additional rules (like background or credit checks), but cannot discriminate against eligible applicants.

The Montana Board of Housing oversees all LIHTC projects in the state, ensuring compliance with tenant rights and property obligations. You can browse available properties and learn about eligibility on the official Montana Housing site.¹

How to Apply for LIHTC Housing in Montana

Applying for a LIHTC apartment in Montana is straightforward, but paperwork and timing matter. Here’s a step-by-step look:

Use the Montana Rental Housing Locator to identify LIHTC buildings near you.
Contact the property manager directly to ask for current availability, eligibility, and an application.
Gather supporting documents showing income, household composition, and (when asked) rental history.
Submit the application with requested documents directly to the property manager. There is no state-wide single application at this time.
You may be placed on a waitlist depending on local demand. Annual recertification of income and household details is required to keep your eligibility in a LIHTC unit.

Key Forms Montana Renters May Need

There is no official Montana-wide application form for LIHTC housing because each property handles its own process. However, several forms and documents are commonly required:

LIHTC Tenant Application (varies by property): Used for your initial application; provided by property management. Always ask for the most current version.
Montana Identity and Residence Documentation: Such as a state-issued ID or proof of residency, needed for eligibility checks. Used at the start and annual renewals. See guidance from Montana Housing.
Income Verification Forms: Wage stubs, benefit letters, or official forms confirming income, requested by the property manager each year. (Example: HUD Form 9887 – Authorization for Release of Information, used if receiving other federal rental assistance, available via HUD.)
Reasonable Accommodation Request Form: For tenants with disabilities who need modifications or policy adjustments. See the Montana Fair Housing page for guidance and a sample form.

Contact your local LIHTC property manager for application packets and specific documentation checklists.

What Are Your Rights and Responsibilities as a LIHTC Tenant?

As a renter in a LIHTC property, you have both rights and responsibilities. Here’s what’s important to know:

Protections: You cannot be evicted or denied renewal except for cause (such as lease violations or ineligibility). You retain rights under the Montana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act of 1977.
Recertification: Every 12 months, you must update your household and income information. Prompt and honest submissions protect your tenancy.
Maintenance: Property owners must keep your unit in safe, habitable condition. If something breaks and it affects health or safety, contact management in writing and request repairs.
Rent increases: Any change in rent must comply with LIHTC rent limits. Rent can only be adjusted annually, based on IRS and Montana Housing guidelines.

Tip: Always document communications with your landlord or property management in writing, especially regarding maintenance or rent changes. This preserves your rights if issues arise later.

Disputes, Complaints, and Tribunal Info

If you face issues like improper rent increases, discrimination, or unsafe conditions at a LIHTC property in Montana, connect with:

Montana Housing — monitors compliance and takes complaints regarding LIHTC housing.
Montana Justice Courts — these local courts handle residential tenancy disputes, including evictions and rights enforcement.
For discrimination or reasonable accommodation issues, contact Montana Fair Housing.

Enforcement of your tenancy rights falls under the Montana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act of 1977.²

FAQ: LIHTC and Affordable Housing Rights for Montana Renters

How do I know if I am eligible for a LIHTC property in Montana?
Eligibility is based mainly on your household income (often below 60% AMI) and household size. Property managers will check this at application and annually.
Can my rent go up in a LIHTC apartment?
Rent increases are limited and can only happen once a year, following federal and Montana Housing rent limits. Your manager must notify you in writing of any changes.
Where do I report problems like unsafe housing or incorrect rent at a LIHTC property?
Start with your property manager in writing. If unresolved, contact Montana Housing or file a dispute in the Montana Justice Court.
Which official law protects my rights as a renter in Montana?
The Montana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act of 1977 covers all tenancy rights.
Is Section 8 the same as LIHTC?
No. LIHTC provides affordable units with restricted rents, while Section 8 is a voucher program paying part of your rent. Some LIHTC buildings accept Section 8 vouchers but not all.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Montana Renters

LIHTC properties offer affordable rents with important tenant protections. Eligibility is based on verified income and household details.
Annual recertification is required to keep your affordable unit—respond quickly to paperwork.
If you face issues, Montana Housing and local Justice Courts support your rights.

Understanding these basics gives you more control, whether you're applying, renewing your lease, or advocating for repairs in your home.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Montana Housing – Find Rental Housing: Search for LIHTC and other affordable properties statewide.
Montana Fair Housing: Information and help with disability accommodations or discrimination complaints.
Montana Justice Courts: Your local venue for tenancy disputes and legal actions.
Montana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act of 1977: Full details of your renter rights in state law.