Income Limits for Affordable Housing in New Hampshire

Struggling with rising rent or searching for safe, affordable housing in New Hampshire? Understanding income limits is the first step toward qualifying for affordable housing programs. Learn how eligibility is determined and what resources are available for renters in your situation.

What Are Income Limits for Affordable Housing?

In New Hampshire, income limits set the maximum household income you can earn to qualify for most affordable housing or rental assistance programs, including Section 8 and Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) apartments. These limits are established each year by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and are based on the Area Median Income (AMI) for your county and household size.

2024 Income Limits for New Hampshire

Income qualifications depend on the county and program. For example:

• Very Low Income (VLI): 50% of AMI
• Low Income: 80% of AMI (often applies to Section 8 and public housing)
• Extremely Low Income: 30% of AMI (for certain priority programs)

To see detailed income limits for your county and household size, visit the official New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority (NHHFA) or review current limits on the HUD website using their Income Limits Dataset.

Main Programs Using Income Limits

• Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher
• LIHTC (Tax Credit) Apartments
• Public Housing (via local housing authorities)

Each program uses income limits to determine eligibility, and requirements may vary by area or property.

How Income Limits Affect Your Eligibility

When you apply, your gross annual household income (before taxes) is compared to the program's limit for your household size and location. If your income is at or below the threshold, you may qualify for assistance or affordable rent.

Key Forms for Affordable Housing Applicants

• Housing Choice Voucher Application (NHHFA)
  • When to use: Use this form to apply for Section 8 rental assistance through NHHFA or local housing authorities.
  • How it's used: Fill out the form with your household details, income, and assets. Submit as instructed by your local authority.
  • View and download the official Section 8 Application here.
• Public Housing Application (Local Housing Authority)
  • When to use: For applying to public housing developments managed by your city or county housing authority.
  • How it's used: Similar information is required as Section 8; contact your housing authority through the public housing program page.

Practical Example for New Hampshire Renters

If you have a two-person household in Manchester, you would check that city’s current income limits before applying for a Section 8 voucher. If your total household income is below the 50% AMI for your household size, you are likely eligible to apply and join a waiting list.

Which Tribunal Handles Tenant and Landlord Disputes?

In New Hampshire, residential landlord-tenant disputes — including those related to affordable housing program rules — are handled by the New Hampshire Circuit Court - District Division. This is the official venue for eviction proceedings and disputes about housing assistance acceptance.

Relevant Laws: Tenancy Rights in New Hampshire

Key rights for renters are detailed in the New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated (RSA), Chapter 540 - Residential Tenancies and RSA Chapter 540-A - Prohibited Practices.

FAQ: Income Limits and Affordable Housing in New Hampshire

1. How do I find the current income limits for my area?
   Visit the HUD Income Limits page or check with the New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority for up-to-date local figures.
2. What counts as household income for eligibility?
   Gross income includes all wages, salaries, social security, child support, and most benefits—before taxes.
3. Can I still apply if I'm slightly over the income limit?
   Usually, no; but some properties have higher limits or special set-asides. Check with the property manager or housing authority directly.
4. How do I apply for affordable housing in New Hampshire?
   Complete the appropriate application form for Section 8 or public housing, then provide documentation if requested during eligibility review or lottery selection.
5. What if my application is denied?
   You have the right to request a written explanation and, if eligible, appeal the decision through the agency listed on your denial notice or with the District Court.

Key Takeaways for New Hampshire Renters

• Income limits for affordable housing are updated annually and vary by county and household size.
• Official programs include Section 8, public housing, and LIHTC apartments.
• Applications require full household and income details; always use the official forms and check eligibility with the housing authority.

Always read eligibility details carefully and ask your local authority if you have questions—the process can take time, so start early and document your communications.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority – Central resource for applications, forms, and assistance programs
• New Hampshire Legal Aid – Housing Help for free guidance and tenant legal information
• NH Circuit Court – District Division for filing or responding to housing and eviction disputes
• NH RSA Chapter 540 – Landlord-Tenant Act for official tenancy rights and rules

---

1. HUD 2024 Income Limits Summary
2. New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority
3. RSA Chapter 540 – Residential Tenancies (State Law)
4. RSA Chapter 540-A – Prohibited Practices
5. New Hampshire Circuit Court – District Division (Tribunal)

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations