For Developers
For Tenants
Frequently Asked Questions Developers
Why do I need an Administering Agent?
For any development creating Inclusionary Housing units to be approved by HPD, the law requires that a nonprofit organization is engaged to market and lease the affordable units in accordance with the prescribed guidelines.
Do Administering Agents get compensation from the City?
No. The City agencies do not pay Administering Agents. The services of the Administering Agents are paid for by real estate developers.
How do tenants get selected?
Through the lottery application process administered by HPD. Housing Line carefully reviews the applicants in log order and determines eligibility based on income (including subsidy availability), household size, and many other factors.
Do I get to review tenants’ applications prior to leasing?
Yes, you have the option to request the full application from your agent. However, the eligibility is determined by the Administering Agent and is confirmed by HPD. Owner’s interpretation of the eligibility may be different from the standards laid out by various programs.
How can I apply for low-income housing opportunities?
The first step is to create an account on Housing Connect and apply for projects that you would be eligible for based on your household income or qualifying rental subsidy (such as Section 8 or CITYFHEPS).
What are the current income limits for low-income housing?
Please click here to see the current income limits. Income limits are based on the Area Median Income (AMI) specified for the project or unit, and the household size. Low-income is generally defined as less than 80% AMI.
How do I find out if Housing Line is the administering agent for a specific project?
If you are contacted as eligible for a project, you will be able to view the contact information for the agent handling the application review. If you’re not sure, please contact HPD at 212-863-7990.
I received a notification that I am eligible. What are the next steps?
You’ll need to submit documents in order to confirm that you qualify. Documents can be submitted through the Housing Connect portal or dropped off in person.
What kind of documents are required?
Requirements usually include proof of income or qualifying rental subsidy, household composition, current New York City residency, student status, and asset statements. Additional requirements may include proof of disability, current Community Board residency, or employment with the City of New York.
Do you accept voucher programs for rental assistance?
Yes! Qualifying rental assistance programs are welcome, including but not limited to Section 8, CITYFHEPS, HRA rental assistance, SOTA, and EHV. You will need to submit up-to-date proof of rental assistance that can be applied to a new apartment.
Is a background or credit check required?
Yes – we are required to run a background and credit check for each adult in a household. Applicants may provide proof of 12 months of on-time rent payment, or a recently run credit report, in lieu of a new credit check.
How long does approval take, if I qualify for an available apartment?
Approval can take 4-6 weeks from your original submission, depending on a number of factors. Our team has extensive experience with the lottery application process and will work closely with you to ensure a seamless experience.
When can I sign the lease? How much do I have to pay to move in?
The lease can be signed 1-2 weeks after approval; move-in is generally expected to be no more than 30 days from the approval date. For low-income lottery rentals, there are no application fees. The first month’s rent and one month’s security deposit are due at the time of lease signing.
Can I transfer my application to a different project?
Each lottery has a separate contained process and requires a separate application. If you are contacted for a specific project, we cannot transfer your application to another.
Is recertification required?
The Housing Line project manager working with you will let you know if recertification is required for your project. If annual recertification is required, our team will follow up to let you know what is required.