Is Source of Income Discrimination Illegal for Renters in Vermont?

Worried you may be turned away from a rental home in Vermont because of how you pay your rent—like using a Section 8 voucher or Social Security income? You're not alone. Source of income discrimination is a real concern for renters, but Vermont law is clear on how landlords must treat all lawful sources of rent payments. Here's what you need to know to protect your rights.

What Is Source of Income Discrimination?

Source of income discrimination means that a landlord refuses to rent to someone, sets different terms, or otherwise treats a renter unfairly because of the way they pay rent. Common lawful sources of income include:

• Section 8 (Housing Choice Vouchers)
• Social Security benefits
• Child support or alimony
• Veterans benefits
• Any lawful wage or assistance program

For renters, being denied a home due to a voucher or other legal benefit can be frustrating and feel unfair.

Is Source of Income Discrimination Prohibited in Vermont?

Yes. Vermont law makes it illegal for landlords to discriminate against renters based on any lawful source of income. This means landlords cannot:

• Refuse to rent to you because you use Section 8 or other vouchers
• Advertise or state that certain sources of payment are not accepted
• Set different terms or conditions based on your income source

These protections are outlined in the Vermont Fair Housing and Public Accommodations Act and enforced alongside federal laws like the Fair Housing Act.^[1]

Who Handles Fair Housing Discrimination in Vermont?

If you face discrimination, the Vermont Human Rights Commission (VHRC) is the state agency that handles investigations and enforcement for residential tenancies. You can also seek help from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

How to File a Source of Income Discrimination Complaint

If you believe a landlord has rejected you, treated you less favorably, or made statements about your income source, you can file an official complaint.

• Vermont Human Rights Commission Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
  • Use when you want the state to investigate a fair housing issue.
  • Practical example: You applied for an apartment with a Section 8 voucher, but the landlord refused to accept it, saying they only rent to "working" tenants.
  • View and download the complaint form (PDF)

1. Fill out the Vermont Human Rights Commission complaint form with your information, details about the landlord, and what happened.
2. Submit it by mail, fax, or email following instructions on the official VHRC filing a complaint page.
3. The VHRC will review your complaint; they may contact you for more information as the process moves forward.

Relevant Vermont Tenancy Legislation

Key protections for renters are found in Vermont's Fair Housing and Public Accommodations Act (Title 9, Chapter 139). Federal protections also apply, such as the federal Fair Housing Act.^[2]

What If I Face Eviction or Retaliation?

If you believe a landlord is attempting to evict you—or is threatening you—due to your complaint about source of income discrimination, this may violate state law. Both the VHRC and legal aid groups can help you understand your rights and next steps if you are threatened with eviction.

FAQ: Vermont Source of Income Discrimination

1. Can a Vermont landlord deny my rental application because I use Section 8?
   No. Vermont law prohibits landlords from refusing to rent to you because you use any lawful source of income—this includes Section 8 housing vouchers.
2. What do I do if a landlord won’t accept child support or Social Security as income?
   You can file a discrimination complaint with the Vermont Human Rights Commission if your rental application or tenancy is affected by your lawful income source.
3. Does this protection apply to private landlords and property management companies?
   Yes. The law applies to all landlords and property managers offering housing in Vermont.
4. Is there a deadline to file a housing discrimination complaint?
   While sooner is better, you generally must file within one year of the discriminatory act for state investigations. Always check official resources or call the VHRC for current deadlines.
5. Can a landlord ask for proof of income for screening?
   Yes, as long as the landlord applies the same income standards to all applicants and does not reject lawful sources (like vouchers or benefits) or set different rules about them.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Vermont Human Rights Commission – File complaints and get legal information
• Vermont Tenants Program (CVOEO) – Renter support, advocacy, and help with fair housing issues
• HUD Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity – National guidance and complaint portal
• Full text of Vermont Fair Housing and Public Accommodations Act

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1. Vermont Human Rights Commission, Housing Discrimination Complaint Form
2. Vermont Legislature, Fair Housing and Public Accommodations Act
3. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity Guidance

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