Does Nebraska Ban Source of Income Discrimination for Renters?

If you're a renter in Nebraska, understanding your rights when applying for housing is important—especially if you rely on income sources like Social Security, child support, or housing vouchers. One common concern is whether landlords can refuse to rent to you because of where your income comes from. This guide explains the status of 'source of income' discrimination protection in Nebraska, who enforces fair housing laws, and what you can do if you feel you've been treated unfairly.

Understanding Source of Income Discrimination

Source of income discrimination happens when a landlord refuses to rent, renew a lease, or otherwise treat applicants differently because of the legal source of their income (such as government housing assistance, disability benefits, or child support). This form of discrimination can prevent many individuals and families from accessing safe, stable housing.

Is Source of Income Discrimination Banned in Nebraska?

As of 2024, Nebraska does not have a statewide law that bans landlords from discriminating based on a renter’s source of income. This means landlords can, in most cases, choose not to accept tenants using housing vouchers (like Section 8) or other public assistance as their income.^[1] However, Fair Housing laws at the federal level still protect against other forms of discrimination, such as those based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, and disability.

Are There Any Local Protections?

Some states and cities in the U.S. have specific laws protecting renters from source of income discrimination, but as of now, no Nebraska city has passed such an ordinance. Renters should always check with their local city housing authority for the most up-to-date local rules.

Who Enforces Fair Housing in Nebraska?

The main agency handling housing discrimination complaints in Nebraska is the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission (NEOC). The NEOC investigates complaints about discrimination that violates federal or state fair housing laws (not including source of income discrimination, unless another protected characteristic is involved).

Nebraska residential tenancies are primarily governed by the Nebraska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^[2] While this Act outlines the rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants, it does not specifically prohibit source of income discrimination.

How Can Renters Respond to Possible Discrimination?

Even though source of income is not a protected class in Nebraska, renters are still protected from discrimination based on the federal protected classes. If you believe you’ve been unfairly denied housing for unlawful reasons, you can file a complaint:

• With the NEOC: Submit a discrimination complaint if you believe you’ve been denied housing due to race, color, national origin, sex, religion, familial status, or disability.
• With HUD: File a federal fair housing complaint online through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Complaints are investigated by the appropriate agency, which may take action if a violation is found.

Key Forms Nebraskan Renters Should Know

• NEOC Housing Discrimination Complaint Form – Used to report housing discrimination based on federal or state protected classes. Find the form and submission details on the NEOC official website.
  • How it’s used: For example, if a renter is denied an apartment after mentioning a disability, they can complete and submit this form to initiate an investigation.
• HUD Form 903 Online Complaint – Used to report discrimination covered by the federal Fair Housing Act. File directly online at HUD’s official site.
  • How it’s used: If a landlord says they won’t rent to families with children, a renter can use this form to report the incident.

If you are unsure whether your complaint is covered, contact these agencies for guidance.

FAQs About Income Discrimination and Renting in Nebraska

1. Is it illegal for Nebraska landlords to refuse Section 8 vouchers?
   No, Nebraska law does not prohibit landlords from declining applicants based on Section 8 or other public assistance income sources.
2. Can a landlord ask about my income source in Nebraska?
   Yes, landlords can ask about and consider your source of income when screening applicants, unless local rules say otherwise.
3. What if I believe I was denied housing for discriminatory reasons not related to income?
   If you believe the denial was due to race, disability, family status, or another protected class, you can file a complaint with the NEOC or HUD.
4. Are there application fee refund rules for denied applicants?
   Nebraska does not have statewide laws requiring refunds of application fees if a renter is denied housing.
5. Where can I find help if I think my rights as a renter in Nebraska were violated?
   Contact the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission or see the Resources section below for assistance.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• Nebraska does not ban source of income discrimination; landlords can refuse renters using housing vouchers or assistance.
• You are still protected from discrimination based on federal protected classes (like race, sex, or disability).
• If you feel discriminated against for protected reasons, file a complaint with the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission or HUD.

For renters relying on assistance, communicating with landlords before applying can save time and resources.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission (NEOC) – Main agency for housing discrimination complaints.
  Phone: (402) 471-2024
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) – Fair Housing
• Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services – Housing Assistance
• Nebraska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (tenancy law)

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1. Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission – FAQ: What does the law prohibit?
2. Nebraska Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act

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