South Dakota Income Limits for Affordable Housing in 2024

Understanding if you qualify for affordable housing programs in South Dakota starts with knowing the income limits set each year. These maximum annual income numbers determine eligibility for rental assistance and subsidized housing, helping families and individuals access safe homes within their means.

What Are Affordable Housing Income Limits?

Income limits are the highest annual household income allowed to qualify for certain rental assistance programs, like Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers or Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) apartments. These limits are set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and updated yearly for each county.

• Extremely Low Income (ELI): Typically up to 30% of the local median.
• Very Low Income (VLI): Typically up to 50% of median income.
• Low Income: Up to 80% of median income.

For most affordable housing programs in South Dakota, the 2024 income limits by county and household size are used to determine who can apply and remain eligible.

South Dakota Affordable Housing Programs That Use Income Limits

• Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
• Public Housing
• Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) Properties
• USDA Rural Development Rental Assistance

Each program may use slightly different income criteria, but all rely on these official HUD income limits.

How to Check the Current Income Limits for Your Area

Income limits vary by county and household size. For the most accurate information, always check:

• HUD Income Limits Lookup Tool
• South Dakota Housing Development Authority (SDHDA) – Income & Rent Limits

For example, in Minnehaha County in 2024, the Very Low Income limit (50% of median) for a family of four is $44,950. Eligibility differs if your household is larger or smaller.

How Income Limits Affect Your Housing Application

When you apply for affordable housing, you must report all sources of household income. The housing authority or property manager will compare your gross annual income (before taxes) to the limit for your household size and area.

If your income rises above the maximum, you may not qualify for new programs or could lose your subsidy. However, honest reporting of income changes is required by law to keep your assistance.

Official Forms Used in South Dakota Affordable Housing

• Application for Rental Assistance (Form: SDHDA Renter Application) – Used to apply for SD Housing rental assistance or Section 8 vouchers. Submit through your local housing authority or online via the SDHDA renter portal.
  Example: If you're applying for a subsidized apartment in Sioux Falls, you must complete and submit this form, providing accurate income information for every household member.
  Download the official SDHDA Rental Application
• HUD Form 9886: Authorization for Release of Information – Authorizes agencies to verify your income and eligibility. Required with most rental assistance applications.
  Example: If you're on a waiting list and your application is under review, the housing authority will often ask you to sign HUD-9886 so they can confirm your reported income.
  View HUD Form 9886

The Tribunal or Board for Tenant Issues in South Dakota

In South Dakota, residential tenancy matters are handled through state courts. Issues related to rental agreements, eviction, or rent disputes will generally go through the South Dakota Unified Judicial System (state courts). There is no separate tenancy board, but your local court has jurisdiction over landlord-tenant matters.

South Dakota rental laws are outlined in South Dakota Codified Laws Title 43, Chapter 32 – Landlord and Tenant.¹

How to Apply for Affordable Housing or Rental Assistance

Applying usually involves filling out forms, providing identification and income documents, and meeting the listed income limits. Waitlists may apply for some programs.

• Gather proof of income (pay stubs, benefit statements, child support).
• Complete the SDHDA Rental Application and HUD Form 9886.
• Submit your paperwork to the local housing authority or online here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Income Limits and Eligibility

1. How often are South Dakota affordable housing income limits updated?
   Income limits are published annually by HUD, typically in April, and used by all local housing programs.
2. Does overtime or part-time work count as income for eligibility?
   Yes, all gross income—including overtime, part-time, unemployment, Social Security, and child support—is counted toward your household's total income.
3. What if my income changes after I move into affordable housing?
   You must report any significant increase or decrease in income to your housing agency right away. This can affect your rent amount or eligibility.
4. Can college students qualify for rental assistance in South Dakota?
   Some student households may qualify, but there are special rules and restrictions. Check with your local housing authority or SDHDA for details.
5. Where can I see the current income limits for my county?
   Use the HUD Income Limits lookup tool or view the SDHDA's SD Income Limits chart.

Key Takeaways for South Dakota Renters

• Income limits set by HUD determine eligibility for most affordable housing assistance.
• Be sure to check both your household size and county before applying.
• Know your reporting obligations; major income changes must be reported to avoid losing rental help.

With the right information and paperwork, qualifying for affordable housing in South Dakota can be a straightforward process.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• South Dakota Housing Development Authority (SDHDA) – Main state housing help site, applications and contact info
• South Dakota Unified Judicial System – For court matters and landlord-tenant disputes
• Find Your Local HUD Field Office – Local advice or in-person assistance
• South Dakota Legal Services – Free/low-cost tenant legal help

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1. South Dakota Codified Laws Title 43, Chapter 32 – Landlord and Tenant
2. HUD Income Limits Documentation System
3. SDHDA Income & Rent Limits
4. SDHDA Renters – Rental Application Portal
5. HUD Form 9886: Authorization for Release of Information

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