South Carolina Income Limits for Affordable Housing (2024 Guide)

Renters in South Carolina who are concerned about rising rents or securing affordable housing often find that strict income limits determine eligibility for helpful programs. Understanding how these limits work—and how you can access assistance—can make a real difference in your search for safe, stable housing.

Understanding Income Limits for Affordable Housing in South Carolina

Most affordable housing programs in South Carolina (such as Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers and Public Housing) use income limits set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Your household’s gross yearly income must fall below a certain threshold, based on your county and household size, to qualify for these programs.

How Income Limits Are Set

• Area Median Income (AMI): Income limits are usually defined as a percentage (like 30%, 50%, or 80%) of the AMI within your county or metro area. AMI is updated annually by HUD.
• Household Size: More members in your household increase your income limit.
• See current HUD Income Limits for South Carolina counties.

2024 Income Limits Examples (Select Counties)

• Charleston County (2024):
  
  • 1-person household: $33,550 (50% AMI), $53,650 (80% AMI)
  • 4-person household: $47,900 (50% AMI), $76,650 (80% AMI)
• Greenville County (2024):
  
  • 1-person household: $29,550 (50% AMI), $47,250 (80% AMI)
  • 4-person household: $42,250 (50% AMI), $67,450 (80% AMI)

Check the official HUD tool each year for the most up-to-date numbers in your area.

Common Affordable Housing Programs and Their Limits

Different housing programs in South Carolina have their own requirements, but income limits are always a key factor. These programs include:

• Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher (administered locally by Public Housing Agencies)
• Public Housing
• Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) units
• Project-Based Section 8 properties

You must apply to each program separately. Typically, eligible applicants earn less than 80% of the local AMI, and priority is often given to those below 50% AMI.

How to Apply for Affordable Housing Assistance

To get started, you’ll need to contact your local Public Housing Agency (PHA) or use the state’s online portal for the program. Be aware that waitlists may be long, and the application process can require several documents.

Official Forms Most Renters Use

• Section 8 Pre-Application (No standard state form; varies by county/agency)
  • When and How Used: Submit this form to your local PHA to get on a waiting list for voucher programs. Example: A renter in Columbia fills out the "Section 8 Pre-Application" through the Columbia Housing Authority to determine eligibility based on current income.
  • South Carolina PHA List and Links to Applications
• Request for Tenancy Approval (HUD Form 52517)
  • When and How Used: Submitted after you receive a Section 8 voucher, this form is used to approve a specific rental property with your housing authority. Example: After getting a voucher, you and your landlord fill out HUD Form 52517 so the agency can schedule an inspection.
  • HUD Form 52517 (PDF)
• Public Housing Application (Varies by Agency)
  • When and How Used: If you want to apply for a public housing unit, you must complete the agency’s specific application. Example: A renter submits a public housing application form on the Columbia Housing Authority website.

What Proof of Income Do I Need to Provide?

• Recent pay stubs or wage statements
• Tax returns (typically the last 2 years)
• Proof of benefits (such as Social Security, unemployment, or child support)

Your PHA will explain exactly what’s needed based on their application requirements.

The Board or Agency Responsible for Tenancy Matters in South Carolina

South Carolina does not have a specialized landlord-tenant tribunal. Most rental disputes or applications involving affordable housing are overseen by the South Carolina Magistrate Courts in accordance with the South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.¹

FAQ: Income Limits and Affordable Housing in South Carolina

1. How do I check if my income qualifies for South Carolina affordable housing?
   Use the official HUD Income Limits Lookup Tool and compare your gross annual household income (before taxes) against your county and household size numbers.
2. Can I apply to more than one affordable housing program at the same time?
   Yes, you may apply for multiple programs—such as Section 8, public housing, and LIHTC units—at the same time. Each has its own forms and waiting lists.
3. What happens if my income changes after I’m approved?
   You must report any income changes to your PHA or program manager. Your rent or eligibility might be adjusted as a result.
4. Who should I contact if my affordable housing application is denied?
   Contact the local PHA for a written denial explanation. You may request an informal review or hearing following their procedure, as outlined under the HUD applicant denial policy.
5. Is there a central list of open affordable housing waiting lists in South Carolina?
   Each PHA manages its own waiting list. HUD maintains a directory of South Carolina PHAs where you can check local availability.

Summary: What Renters Should Remember

• Income limits for South Carolina affordable housing differ by county, household size, and program type.
• Always use official government sources to confirm current eligibility numbers each year.
• Be prepared to submit clear proof of your income and promptly update agencies with any financial changes.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• HUD Rental Assistance Programs Overview
• South Carolina State Housing Finance and Development Authority (statewide housing initiatives and information)
• South Carolina Public Housing Agency Directory (by county)
• South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (official statute text)
• South Carolina Magistrate Courts: Landlord-Tenant Disputes

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1. South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act

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