Texas Income Limits for Affordable Housing Assistance

If you’re a renter in Texas struggling to afford your home, understanding the income limits for affordable housing programs can help you find support. Texas offers several rental assistance and affordable housing solutions, but each comes with strict eligibility rules based on household income and family size. Knowing whether you qualify – and how to apply – can be the first important step to securing more stable and affordable housing.

Understanding Income Limits for Texas Affordable Housing Programs

Many Texas affordable housing and rental assistance programs, such as Section 8 and Public Housing, use income limits set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA). These income limits are updated annually and determine who qualifies as low-income, very low-income, or extremely low-income, based on the area’s median income (AMI).

How Income Limits Work

• Low-Income: Up to 80% of the area median income (AMI)
• Very Low-Income: Up to 50% of AMI
• Extremely Low-Income: Up to 30% of AMI

Your eligibility depends on your household income and family size. For example, in Dallas County in 2024, a four-person household must earn less than $61,800 to qualify as low-income. Each area in Texas can have different limits – always refer to the current HUD income limit documentation for your city or county.

Types of Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Programs in Texas

There are several major rental assistance programs using income limits:

• Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program: Offers rent support for private market apartments.
• Public Housing: Rental housing managed by local housing authorities.
• Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) Properties: Affordable apartments with rent limits based on income.

Each program may have its own verification process and waitlists. For the latest income limits by county and household size, visit the official HUD Income Limits webpage.

Key Forms for Applying to Affordable Housing in Texas

When applying to rental assistance or affordable housing, renters must complete specific forms. Below are examples of common official forms:

• HUD Form 9886 – Authorization for the Release of Information/Privacy Act Notice: Required by all HUD-assisted programs. It gives permission for your income and eligibility status to be verified by government agencies.
  When & How: Submit this with your initial application to a housing authority or as requested by Section 8/LIHTC managers.
  View/download HUD Form 9886 from HUD.gov
• TDHCA Multifamily Rental Application: For residents applying to LIHTC properties in Texas.
  When & How: Completed during your initial application to a tax credit property, along with supporting documents (pay stubs, IDs, etc.).
  Download the Texas standardized rental application form (TDHCA)

Always follow instructions carefully and keep copies. You may need to update these forms annually or whenever your income changes.

Residential Tenancy Law and Oversight Bodies in Texas

Texas tenants and landlords are governed by the Texas Property Code, Title 8, Chapter 92 – Residential Tenancies^[1]. While there is no single state housing tribunal, disputes over affordable housing are often resolved by:

• Texas Justice of the Peace Courts: Handle most residential eviction and rental disputes
• Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA): Oversees affordable housing programs and complaints

What Happens If Your Income Changes?

If your income goes up or down, report it to your housing administrator as soon as possible. Your rent or eligibility may be adjusted, or you could risk penalties if not reported.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the maximum income allowed for affordable housing programs in Texas?
   The maximum income depends on county and family size, but generally, to qualify you must earn less than 80% of the area median income (AMI). Check the HUD Income Limits tool for your area.
2. How do I prove my household income when applying?
   You will usually need to submit documents like pay stubs, tax returns, and official forms such as HUD Form 9886 to verify your income with the housing authority or property manager.
3. What should I do if my income changes while receiving rental assistance?
   You must notify your housing authority or property management right away. Failing to report income changes can result in ineligibility or repayment requirements.
4. How often do income limits for affordable housing change in Texas?
   Income limits are reviewed and revised yearly by HUD and the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs. Always use the most recent figures.
5. Who oversees affordable housing complaints in Texas?
   The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) oversees these programs and accepts complaints about substandard conditions or illegal denials.

Key Takeaways for Texas Renters

• Texas affordable housing programs set annual income limits based on area median income and household size.
• Key programs include Section 8, public housing, and LIHTC properties – all require proof of income using official government forms.
• Report income changes right away to avoid problems, and use resources like HUD and TDHCA for assistance.

Arming yourself with accurate information and timely paperwork increases your chances of qualifying for support and maintaining your rental stability.

Need Help? Resources for Renters in Texas

• Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA): State housing authority, provides affordable housing information and complaint resources.
• HUD Texas: Renting and Housing Assistance: Federal resources and guidance for renters.
• Texas Law Help: Tenants’ Rights: Plain-language legal resources for Texas tenants.
• Texas Justice Courts Directory: Find your local court for rental disputes and evictions.
• For local programs, contact your city or county housing authority listed on the HUD PHA Contact Search.

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1. Texas Property Code, Title 8, Chapter 92 – Residential Tenancies
2. HUD Income Limits
3. Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs

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