Nebraska Fair Housing: Who Is Protected from Discrimination?

Nebraska renters are protected by state and federal fair housing laws. Understanding which groups are covered ("protected classes") can help you recognize, prevent, and address unfair treatment in renting, evictions, or housing access. If you believe you’ve been discriminated against, clear steps and official forms are available to help you assert your rights under Nebraska law.

What Is a Protected Class Under Nebraska Fair Housing Laws?

A "protected class" is a group of people safeguarded against housing discrimination by law. Both federal and Nebraska state laws outline the categories these protections cover. It is illegal for a landlord, realtor, or property manager to refuse to rent, set different terms, or harass tenants based on these characteristics.

Protected Classes Under Federal Law

• Race
• Color
• Religion
• National origin
• Sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation)
• Disability
• Familial status (such as having children under 18)

These are established by the federal Fair Housing Act.^[1]

Additional Protected Classes in Nebraska

The Nebraska Fair Housing Act offers the same protections as federal law. At present, Nebraska does not add more protected classes beyond those federally mandated.^[2]

• If you believe you’ve faced rental discrimination based on age, marital status, or other factors not listed, these may not be covered under Nebraska law. However, it’s still worth discussing with an expert or contacting Nebraska’s official housing agencies to confirm your rights.

Examples of Housing Discrimination

Discrimination can happen in many ways. Here are some examples related to protected classes:

• A landlord refusing to rent to a family with young children (familial status).
• A rental ad stating "no foreign-born applicants" (national origin).
• A property manager turning away someone because of a disability or denying accommodations, such as a service animal.
• Charging higher rent to tenants of a certain race or gender.

If you experience any of these actions, you may have grounds to file a fair housing complaint.

How to File a Housing Discrimination Complaint in Nebraska

If you believe your rights as a member of a protected class have been violated, prompt action is important. Complaints can be filed at the state or federal level.

Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission ( NEOC)

• The NEOC is the official state agency that investigates fair housing complaints involving rental, sales, and other housing-related transactions.

Official Complaint Form

• Form Name: Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (no official statewide number assigned)
• Where to find: Download NEOC Housing Discrimination Complaint Form (PDF)
• When to use: Use this form if you believe you have been denied, harassed, or treated differently by a landlord or agent due to your inclusion in a protected class.

Example: If your application was rejected after you disclosed a disability or your landlord issues rules that target families with children, you can file this form.

Steps for Filing a Complaint

• Complete the Complaint Form: Fill in all details about the incident and your contact information.
• Submit the Form: Email, mail, or deliver the form to the NEOC as specified on the instructions.
• Investigation: The NEOC will review your complaint, investigate, and may contact you for further details or evidence.

Find full instructions at the official NEOC complaint page.

Other Agencies

• You may also file with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Which Tribunal Handles Housing Disputes in Nebraska?

The Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission (NEOC) is Nebraska’s primary agency for fair housing discrimination enforcement. If your issue is related to eviction or other tenancy matters, the county or district court may also have jurisdiction. However, for fair housing discrimination specifically, start with the NEOC.

Relevant Nebraska Fair Housing Legislation

• The Nebraska Fair Housing Act (§§ 20-317 to 20-343)
• The Nebraska Residential Landlord and Tenant Act

Reading the original laws can help you understand your rights in detail.

FAQ: Nebraska Fair Housing and Protected Classes

1. What should I do if I think my landlord discriminated against me?
   If you suspect housing discrimination, keep written records, collect evidence, and file a complaint with the Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission as soon as possible.
2. Are emotional support animals protected under fair housing laws?
   Yes. People with disabilities, including those requiring emotional support animals, are protected. Landlords cannot refuse reasonable accommodations unless it imposes major hardship.
3. Does Nebraska protect me from discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity?
   Federal protections now include sexual orientation and gender identity under “sex,” and Nebraska recognizes these federal standards.
4. What happens after I file a complaint with the NEOC?
   The NEOC investigates, may ask you and the landlord for details, and can try to resolve the situation or take further legal action.
5. Is there a deadline to file a housing discrimination complaint?
   Yes, complaints must be made generally within one year of the discriminatory act. Acting quickly strengthens your case.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Nebraska Equal Opportunity Commission (NEOC) – Submit complaints and access fair housing guidance
• U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Nebraska Office – Federal complaints and resources
• Nebraska Judicial Branch – Landlord/Tenant Self-Help
• Nebraska Landlord & Tenant Laws (Official Statutes)

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1. U.S. Department of Justice – Fair Housing Act
2. Nebraska Fair Housing Act (Nebraska Revised Statutes 20-317 – 20-343)

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