Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Rental Options in North Carolina

Finding affordable and secure rental housing in North Carolina can be challenging, especially if you’re a low- or moderate-income renter. The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program is a vital resource that helps create apartments with lower rents, giving more North Carolinians access to safe, quality homes. This guide explains how LIHTC properties work, who qualifies, and how you can apply in North Carolina.

What Are LIHTC Properties?

LIHTC (Low-Income Housing Tax Credit) properties are apartment complexes built or rehabilitated with the help of federal tax credits. In exchange for those credits, the owners must offer a portion or all of their units at rent prices lower than the local market rate. The goal is to make affordable housing available to people who might otherwise struggle to pay rent.

• Rents are set so that tenants pay no more than 30% of their income toward housing.
• Mainly serve individuals, seniors, and families with incomes below a certain limit.
• Managed by private landlords but must comply with local, state, and federal rules.

Eligibility for LIHTC Apartments in North Carolina

Eligibility for a LIHTC apartment depends on your yearly household income compared to the area’s median income. Most properties accept tenants earning less than 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI), but some allow higher or lower limits. Each LIHTC property may have slightly different rules and application steps.

• Income Limits: Check the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency's income limit charts each year.
• Household Requirements: Family size and your total household income are both considered.
• Background Checks: Landlords may perform background screenings but must follow federal and state anti-discrimination rules.

Always ask the property manager about eligibility details for the specific LIHTC property you’re interested in.

How to Apply for a LIHTC Apartment in North Carolina

Applying for a LIHTC property is similar to regular rentals but may involve extra paperwork to verify your income and family size. Here’s what to expect:

• Find available LIHTC properties using the NCHFA rental search tool.
• Contact the property directly to ask about vacancies, eligibility, and the application process.
• Prepare documents such as proof of income, identification, and household information.
• Submit the rental application forms required by the property manager.

After your application, the landlord will review your eligibility and may put your name on a waiting list if there are no immediate vacancies.

Important Official Forms for Renters

• HUD-50058 Family Report – This form collects your household and income information for eligibility. Most renters fill this out with the help of the property manager or administrator when applying. See the HUD-50058 form.
• Reasonable Accommodation Request – If you or a family member needs a change due to a disability (for example, wheelchair access), complete a written request and submit it to your property manager. There isn’t a standardized state form, but here is a sample reasonable accommodation request form from NCHFA.

Your Rights and Protections as a LIHTC Renter

LIHTC tenants have many of the same rights as other renters in North Carolina. For example, the property manager cannot unfairly evict you, must provide basic repairs, and must follow state laws on returning security deposits. Discrimination based on protected status is against federal law.

• Landlords must follow the North Carolina Residential Rental Agreements Act.
• If you think your rights are being violated, you can contact the North Carolina Housing Coalition or seek help through the official avenues described below.

Key Legal Protections for LIHTC Renters

North Carolina’s main laws about residential rentals apply to LIHTC renters:

• North Carolina General Statutes, Chapter 42 – Landlord and Tenant governs rental agreements, eviction procedures, repairs, deposits, and more.
• If you have concerns or disputes, cases are handled by your local North Carolina District Court (Small Claims Court for landlord-tenant matters).
• Discrimination complaints can be filed with the North Carolina Human Relations Commission.

For more about your rights, you can review the NCHFA's Renters page.

FAQ: LIHTC Apartments and Affordable Housing in North Carolina

1. How do I know if I qualify for a LIHTC apartment?
   Your eligibility depends on your income, household size, and sometimes other factors like student status. Check the current income limits and speak with the property manager.
2. Can the rent on a LIHTC apartment go up?
   Yes, but rent increases for LIHTC units are restricted and must stay within federal and state guidelines. Increases are generally tied to local income calculations, not market trends.
3. Does a LIHTC property have to accept housing vouchers?
   Many LIHTC properties do accept Housing Choice Vouchers, but you should ask the property manager at each location for their specific policy.
4. Where do I go if I have a dispute with my landlord?
   Rental disputes in North Carolina are generally handled by your local District (Small Claims) Court. You can also contact statewide renter resources for help.
5. What happens if I lose income while renting a LIHTC unit?
   You should notify your property manager immediately. Your rent may be recalculated, or you may be referred for additional assistance.

Conclusion: What North Carolina Renters Should Know

• LIHTC apartments offer affordable rent and legal protections for qualifying renters in North Carolina.
• Eligibility is mostly income-based, and the application process requires verification documents.
• State rental laws and courts, along with housing agencies, are there to help if you face problems or discrimination.

Understanding your options and rights helps ensure safe, stable housing for you and your family.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (NCHFA) – LIHTC and Affordable Housing Info
• North Carolina District Court – Landlord Tenant Disputes
• North Carolina Housing Coalition – Renter Support and Eviction Prevention
• NC Human Relations Commission – Housing Discrimination Complaints

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1. North Carolina Housing Finance Agency – LIHTC Management Guidance
2. North Carolina General Statutes, Chapter 42 – Landlord and Tenant
3. North Carolina Judicial Branch – Landlord Tenant Disputes
4. HUD – Family Report (Form 50058)

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