Ohio LIHTC Properties: Affordable Housing Guide for Renters

Finding an affordable rental in Ohio can be challenging, especially for low- and moderate-income households. The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program offers safe and affordable apartments to qualified renters in Ohio. This guide explains how LIHTC properties work, how you can apply, and what your rights are as a tenant in these units.

What Are LIHTC Properties in Ohio?

The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program is a federal incentive, administered in Ohio by the Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA), that encourages the development of affordable rental housing. Property owners who participate agree to set aside a portion of their units for households under certain income limits, with rents capped at affordable rates.

• Income Limits: Typically, your household income must be at or below 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI). These limits adjust annually by county.
• Rent Caps: Rents are fixed based on the local AMI and unit size, usually making LIHTC properties more affordable than the market average.
• Eligibility: Both individuals and families can qualify if they meet income and other basic requirements.

Learn more about Ohio's LIHTC guidelines on the OHFA LIHTC FAQ page.

How to Find and Apply for LIHTC Housing in Ohio

Searching for and applying to LIHTC properties requires some preparation, but resources are available to guide you.

Step 1: Search for LIHTC Properties

• Use the OHFA's Rental Housing Locator to find affordable properties by location, size, and amenities.
• Verify property participation in the LIHTC program before applying.

Step 2: Gather Required Documentation

• Proof of income (pay stubs, benefit letters)
• Identification for all household members
• Social Security numbers (if available)

Step 3: Submit a Rental Application

Each LIHTC property may have its own application process. Some may require you to fill out an official application form and undergo income certification. Ask the property for details on processing times and waiting lists.

Step 4: Wait for Eligibility Review

• If your household qualifies, you may be placed on a waitlist.
• If selected, you’ll complete a lease just like any other rental, but with LIHTC income and rent restrictions in place.

Rights and Responsibilities for LIHTC Renters

Renters in LIHTC properties have rights and protections under Ohio law and program-specific rules:

• Your rent cannot exceed the restricted amount set by the LIHTC program based on your income and unit size.
• Landlords must maintain habitable and safe housing conditions as required by the Ohio Landlord-Tenant Act (Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5321).¹
• You have the right to file complaints about unsafe conditions, discrimination, or illegal rent increases with the OHFA or your local fair housing office.

Key Official Forms for LIHTC Renters in Ohio

• Tenant Income Certification (TIC) Form: Required for annual income reviews by the property manager to ensure ongoing eligibility. For example, you’ll fill this form out at move-in and every year—ask your property manager for the latest version or see the OHFA Asset Management & Compliance Forms page.
• Ohio Notice to Remedy or Vacate (Form No. N/A): Used by tenants to request repairs if urgent conditions aren’t being addressed. For detailed instructions and template letters, consult the OHFA Renters Guide.

These forms help renters protect their rights and maintain continued eligibility for affordable housing.

Who Handles Rental Disputes in Ohio?

Tenant and landlord disputes in Ohio are typically handled by the local Municipal or County Court's Housing Division. For program concerns (such as eligibility or compliance), contact the Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA).²

Relevant Legislation

Tenant rights and responsibilities are governed by the Ohio Landlord-Tenant Act, Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5321 and federal LIHTC rules.¹

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I check if I’m eligible for an LIHTC property in Ohio?
   Use the OHFA Rental Housing Locator and check listed income limits for each property. Your eligibility is based on your household size and annual income.
2. Can my LIHTC landlord in Ohio raise my rent?
   LIHTC landlords can only raise rent if it stays below the program’s capped limits for your county and unit size. Changes must comply with federal and state LIHTC rules.
3. What should I do if my LIHTC apartment isn’t being maintained?
   Provide written notice to your landlord requesting repairs. If problems persist, file a complaint with your local housing court or contact the OHFA Tenant Concerns page.
4. If I lose my job, do I lose my LIHTC apartment?
   Losing income typically does not make you ineligible, but you must report changes to your property manager, who will re-certify your eligibility using a Tenant Income Certification form.
5. How do I report suspected discrimination at an LIHTC property?
   File a fair housing complaint with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission or the OHFA Tenant Concerns page.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Ohio LIHTC Renters

• LIHTC properties in Ohio offer affordable apartments to qualifying households based on income.
• Your rights are protected by both state landlord-tenant law and federal housing rules.
• Direct support, forms, and complaints can be handled through OHFA and your local housing court.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA) – Main portal for LIHTC program information, applications, and compliance concerns.
• OHFA Renters Resources – Find properties, forms, and tenant assistance guides.
• Ohio Courts Housing Division – Handle eviction and housing-related disputes.
• Ohio Civil Rights Commission – File discrimination or fair housing complaints.

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1. Ohio Landlord-Tenant Act, Ohio Revised Code Chapter 5321
2. Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA)

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