Housing providers are legally required to consider supplemental information during the application process. This guide outlines the exact information they must consider and how to address it.
Income + Credit History + Rental History + Criminal History
Common Barriers to Housing
Income
The maximum requirement is 2.5x the rent amount. All households with an RLRA voucher will income qualify at any property due to the portion being capped at 28.5% of income.
Examples:
If the monthly rent is $1000/month a household must earn $2500/month
If the household only pays $100/month as their portion they can only be required to have an income of $250/month
Credit History
Credit requirements vary by property but typically a score under 650 should be considered a barrier.
Common reasons for denial
Credit score below 650
Bankruptcy in last 5 years
Any amount in collections
Significant outstanding debt
Rental History
Rental history requirements vary widely by housing provider.
Common reasons for denial
Eviction in last 7 years
Rental Arrears: Any amount owed to a past housing or utility provider