Income Limits for Affordable Housing in North Dakota: What Renters Should Know

Affordable housing programs in North Dakota offer valuable assistance to renters seeking stable, lower-cost housing options. However, to qualify, your household income must fall under specific limits set by federal and state agencies. Knowing the current income thresholds, which forms to use, and where to get help can make your application process smoother and less stressful.

How Income Limits Work for North Dakota Renters

Income limits are used to determine who qualifies for affordable housing programs such as Section 8, public housing, or Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) units in North Dakota. These limits typically depend on the size of your household and are updated annually by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

• Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher: Designed for very low-income families, seniors, and people with disabilities.
• Public Housing: Provides affordable homes for eligible families or individuals.
• LIHTC Properties: Rent-restricted units managed by private landlords, with income guidelines.

2024 Income Limits in North Dakota

For most counties in North Dakota, the key income categories are:

• Extremely Low Income (30% of area median income, or AMI)
• Very Low Income (50% of AMI)
• Low Income (80% of AMI)

To find the precise limits for your county and household size, visit the HUD Income Limits Tool.

For example, in Burleigh County (which includes Bismarck), the 2024 income limits for a family of 4 are approximately:

• Extremely Low Income: $28,500
• Very Low Income: $47,400
• Low Income: $75,800

Income limits vary by county and program—always check the most current figures using the HUD online tool mentioned above.

How Eligibility is Determined

Eligibility for affordable housing programs in North Dakota is based on gross household income, before taxes. All adults in the household are counted. Some sources of money may not count as income—if you’re unsure, ask your local housing authority.

• Applicants must also meet other requirements, such as background checks and residency status.
• Proof of income (like pay stubs, tax returns, benefit awards) will be required during the application process.

Official Forms Used for Affordable Housing in North Dakota

Below are some essential forms you may encounter when applying for rental assistance or affordable housing programs in the state:

• Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Application
  Form Name: North Dakota Section 8 Pre-Application
  When to Use: Begin your application for a housing voucher. Submit to your local housing authority or North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA).
  Official Source: NDHFA Renters Assistance Programs
• Public Housing Application
  Form Name: Public Housing/Section 8 Combined Preliminary Application
  When to Use: If you wish to apply for both public housing and Section 8 at the same time (offered by some local housing authorities).
  Official Source: List of North Dakota PHAs
• Income Certification Form
  Form Name: Tenant Income Certification (varies by property, typically HUD Form 50059 or equivalent).
  When to Use: Required documentation to prove your household income when applying for (or renewing) eligibility for public housing or LIHTC units.
  Official Source: HUD Form 50059 PDF

Always use forms provided by the program administrator or local Public Housing Authority (PHA). If unsure where to apply, consult the complete list of PHAs in North Dakota.

Where to Seek a Decision or Appeal: The Official Tribunal

In North Dakota, the State District Court handles disputes concerning residential tenancies, including eligibility hearings or decisions about affordable housing programs.
If you are denied for a program or feel your application was not processed properly, you have the right to seek an appeal through this court system.

Relevant Tenancy Law in North Dakota

North Dakota’s main laws governing landlord and tenant relationships—covering issues like qualifying for rental housing, receiving notices, or dealing with disputes—are found in the North Dakota Century Code, Chapter 47-16 – Landlord and Tenant^[1].

FAQ: Income Limits and Affordable Housing in North Dakota

1. How often are income limits updated in North Dakota?
   Income limits are typically updated every year by HUD to reflect changes in the area median income.
2. What if my household income changes after I qualify?
   You must report changes to your local housing authority. Your rent or eligibility may be adjusted.
3. Can I apply for more than one affordable housing program at the same time?
   Yes. You may apply to multiple programs, but eligibility and application processes may differ. Check with your local PHA.
4. Where can I find real-time updates on North Dakota income limits?
   Use the official HUD Income Limits Tool for the latest data.
5. What documentation is required with my application?
   Usually, recent pay stubs, tax returns, proof of benefits, and personal identification for all household members.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for North Dakota Renters

• Affordable housing income limits are set by HUD and updated annually—check the rules for your county and household size.
• Use only official forms from your PHA, and be prepared to show complete income documentation.
• If you have trouble or are denied assistance, North Dakota State District Court is the official venue for appeals or disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA) – Renters Assistance Programs: Guidance on all major affordable housing programs and links to applications.
• Find Your Local Public Housing Authority: Direct contacts for application help and local program information.
• North Dakota State District Court: For appeals and resolving landlord-tenant disputes.
• North Dakota Landlord and Tenant Laws: Full official statutes for reference.
• Current North Dakota Income Limits (HUD Tool)

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1. North Dakota Century Code, Chapter 47-16 – Landlord and Tenant
2. HUD Income Limits Tool
3. NDHFA Renters Assistance Programs
4. HUD Form 50059 (Tenant Income Certification)
5. List of North Dakota PHAs
6. North Dakota State District Court

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