How do I know if I qualify for an LIHTC apartment in Vermont?

Check the income limits for your county using HUD’s guide, then confirm with each property’s manager before applying.

Can my rent increase while living in an LIHTC unit?

Rent increases must comply with LIHTC rules and Vermont’s tenant laws. Your landlord must provide proper written notice.

What if I have a dispute with my landlord in an LIHTC property?

You may file a complaint with the Vermont Judiciary – Civil Division or ask the Vermont Consumer Assistance Program for advice.

What documents do I usually need to apply for LIHTC housing?

Typically, you’ll need proof of income, identification, and a completed Tenant Application from the property manager.

Are pets allowed in LIHTC apartments?

Policies differ by property, but service and emotional support animals are protected by law.

Vermont LIHTC Property Guide: Eligibility & Renter Rights

Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Vermont published June 21, 2025

Vermont faces high demand for affordable rentals, making programs like Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) properties vitally important. If you’re a renter seeking reduced-cost housing or dealing with lease challenges, understanding LIHTC properties in Vermont can unlock new options and protections for you and your family.

What Are LIHTC Properties?

Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) properties are apartment complexes that receive tax incentives from the federal government in exchange for offering affordable rent to income-qualified tenants. In Vermont, these properties are regulated by partnerships between federal agencies and local organizations like the Vermont Housing Finance Agency (VHFA).

Who Is Eligible for LIHTC in Vermont?

To qualify for an LIHTC unit:

Your total household income must fall below specific limits based on the number of people and county. For 2024, most LIHTC properties in Vermont require incomes below 60% of the Area Median Income (AMI).
Citizenship or eligible immigration status may be required.
You must complete the application and income certification process with the property manager.

Income limits and availability can change each year, so always confirm eligibility on the property’s website or through the VHFA directory.

How Do Vermont LIHTC Units Work?

LIHTC apartments are privately operated but must follow specific rules, including:

Setting rent at or below levels set by state and federal guidelines
Ensuring tenants’ rights are protected under Vermont’s Residential Rental Agreements Act
Allowing only qualified tenants to live in subsidized units

How to Apply for an LIHTC Apartment in Vermont

Follow these key steps to access LIHTC housing:

Use the VHFA Affordable Rental Housing Directory to find available units and contact information for each property.
Request and submit the property’s rental application (often titled "Tenant Application" or "Preliminary Application").
Submit proof of household income, identification, and any other required documentation.
Complete the required annual income certification forms while living in LIHTC housing.

Each property may have its own application and waitlist process. There is no statewide centralized form, but the "Tenant Application" is the typical entry point. For example, when you find a vacancy at a participating apartment, ask for the "Tenant Application" from the leasing office. Carefully complete it and return it with a copy of your most recent paystub, tax return, and required identification.

Essential Forms for Vermont LIHTC Renters

Tenant Application – Used to apply for an LIHTC unit. Request this directly from the property manager listed in the VHFA directory. Includes questions on income, household members, and rental history.
Example: "Sarah found an open LIHTC unit in Burlington on VHFA’s site. She called, requested the application, and submitted it along with her income documents." (Sample forms vary by property, typically titled "Application for Rental Unit".)
Annual Income Certification Form – Required every year if you become a tenant, to confirm you are still eligible. Provided by your property manager and returned directly to them.
Request for Reasonable Accommodation (no official number) – You may use this if you need changes to rules or facilities due to disability. File it with your landlord or property manager.
Example: "If you need a grab bar installed in your LIHTC apartment for medical reasons, complete the Request for Reasonable Accommodation form and give it to your landlord."

What Rights Do LIHTC Tenants in Vermont Have?

When renting an LIHTC unit in Vermont, you are fully protected by the Residential Rental Agreements Act (Title 9, Chapter 137). This law covers key areas:

Your right to a safe and healthy apartment
Your landlord’s legal duties, including maintenance and repairs
Restrictions on eviction, including required notice periods
Protection against unfair rent increases (while your lease is in effect, your rent generally cannot rise without formal notice)

LIHTC tenants should know: If you believe your landlord has violated Vermont rental law, you can seek help or file a complaint with the Vermont Judiciary – Civil Division, which handles residential tenancy disputes.

Filing a Complaint or Seeking Help

If you have a problem with your LIHTC landlord (such as improper rent increases or eviction notices), you may:

Contact the Vermont Attorney General’s Consumer Assistance Program
File a complaint with the Vermont Judiciary – Civil Division

You may be asked to submit a "Verified Complaint" or specific court form, depending on your issue. Always check with the relevant authority for the correct procedure.

FAQ: Vermont LIHTC Properties and Renter Protections

How do I know if I qualify for an LIHTC apartment in Vermont?
Check the income limits for your county using the HUD income limits tool and confirm with the property manager.
Can my rent increase while living in an LIHTC unit?
Rent increases must follow program rules and Vermont tenant law. Your landlord has to give proper notice.
What if I have a dispute with my landlord in an LIHTC property?
You can file a complaint with the Vermont Judiciary – Civil Division or contact the Consumer Assistance Program.
What documents do I usually need to apply for LIHTC housing?
Common requirements include income verification, identification, and a completed Tenant Application from the property manager.
Are pets allowed in LIHTC apartments?
Pet rules vary by property, but service and assistance animals are protected under federal and Vermont law if you qualify.

Key Takeaways for LIHTC Renters in Vermont

Vermont’s LIHTC program creates affordable rental opportunities—but you must meet income and eligibility guidelines.
Always use the property manager's official forms for application and annual recertification.
Vermont’s Residential Rental Agreements Act ensures your core rights as a renter aren't waived in LIHTC properties.

If you need clarity at any step, reach out for local support using the links below.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Vermont Housing Finance Agency (VHFA) – Affordable Rentals Directory
Vermont Landlord-Tenant Statutes and Handbook
Vermont Judiciary – Civil Division (Handles rental disputes and eviction cases)
Vermont Consumer Assistance Program (For complaints or advice)