West Virginia Income Limits for Renters Seeking Affordable Housing

Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance West Virginia published June 21, 2025 Flag of West Virginia

Understanding the income limits for affordable housing is important for West Virginia renters looking for safe, stable, and budget-friendly homes. These programs have specific eligibility rules based on your household income, size, and other factors. Staying informed helps you access resources and make confident rental decisions.

What Are Income Limits for Affordable Housing Programs?

Income limits set the maximum annual income a household can earn to qualify for affordable housing programs like Section 8, public housing, and Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) properties in West Virginia. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) determines these limits each year, using local market and family size information.[1]

West Virginia 2024 HUD Income Limits Overview

Income limits vary across West Virginia counties. However, HUD groups these into three main categories:

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

For example, in Kanawha County, WV for a family of four in 2024:

  • Extremely Low: $23,250
  • Very Low: $38,750
  • Low Income: $61,950

Always check your county-specific limits through the HUD Income Limits Lookup Tool.

Common Affordable Housing Programs in West Virginia

Here are the primary programs using income limits to determine eligibility:

Eligibility and benefits may vary, but all require you to meet income requirements based on your household size and county median income.

How Are Income Limits Calculated?

HUD reviews local wage data, housing costs, and poverty thresholds. The formulas may change based on economic shifts each year, so it's wise to verify current limits for your area by:

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Applying for Affordable Housing in West Virginia

Ready to apply? Here are the essential steps and official forms typically involved:

Key Application Forms and How to Use Them

  • Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Pre-Application (WV)
    Use when applying for Section 8 through your local Public Housing Authority (PHA). This form collects household income, size, and background details. Submit it online or in person. Example: Completing the pre-application in Kanawha County when the waitlist opens. Official Pre-Application Info
  • Public Housing Application (WV)
    Submit this form directly to your area's PHA to be considered for public housing. You'll need proof of income, identification, and family details. Example: Submitting your application after gathering pay stubs for all household earners. Apply Here
  • Consent Form HUD-9886
    This is used to give HUD and housing authorities permission to verify your income. It’s often required as part of affordable housing applications. Download HUD-9886 Consent Form

Some properties may have their own paperwork, so follow instructions carefully and keep copies for your records.

Tip: Double-check all document requirements, as missing paperwork can delay your application or put you further down the waitlist.

Which Agency Handles Rental Issues in West Virginia?

Unlike some states, West Virginia does not have a specialized landlord-tenant tribunal. Rental disputes are generally settled in West Virginia state courts (usually Magistrate Court). For more on this process, review your West Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.

Relevant West Virginia Tenancy Legislation

This law sets out your basic rights as a renter, including rules for rent, evictions, and property conditions.

FAQ: West Virginia Affordable Housing Income Limits

  1. How do I know if my income qualifies for affordable housing programs in West Virginia?
    Your eligibility depends on your household's annual income, the number of people in your home, and the county median income. Use the HUD Income Limits Tool for your area.
  2. What proof of income do I need to submit?
    Typically, all adult household members must provide recent pay stubs, benefits letters, or tax returns with their application.
  3. Can undocumented immigrants qualify for affordable housing in West Virginia?
    Most federal programs require at least one household member to have eligible immigration status. However, some programs set their own criteria; check with your local housing agency.
  4. Where do I submit my application for Section 8 or public housing?
    Applications are submitted to your local Public Housing Authority or online through the West Virginia Housing Development Fund.
  5. Are income limits the same statewide in West Virginia?
    No, limits vary by county and household size, so always check the most recent figures for your location.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

  1. [1] See HUD Income Limits Methodology
  2. [2] West Virginia Code Chapter 37, Article 6 – Landlord and Tenant
  3. [3] West Virginia Housing Development Fund – Renters

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Renter Rights USA

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

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