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How Can I Get Housing With a Criminal Record?

Having a criminal record makes it challenging to find affordable housing, but someone with a criminal record may still qualify for many federal low-income housing programs. This guide will cover:

  • How housing providers use criminal records in reviewing applications.
  • What federal housing programs have restrictions based on criminal records.
  • Suggestions for limiting the impact of your record when applying for housing.
  • What to do if you're denied housing assistance based on your criminal records history.

Start the guide at Part 1: Understanding the Issue. or choose a topic from the list below.

Housing for Persons with Criminal Records Guide

  1. Understanding the Issue.
  2. Determine That You Meet the Basic Qualifications.
  3. Criminal Record Requirements for HUD Housing Programs.
    1. Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program
    2. Public Housing
    3. Section 8 Project-Based Rental Assistance
    4. Section 8 Moderate Rehabilitation Program (Mod-Rehab)
    5. Other HUD Programs
    6. HUD Programs with No Criminal Record Requirements
  4. Criminal Record Requirements for Other Federal Housing Programs.
    1. Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Program (LIHTC)
    2. USDA Rental Housing Programs
  5. Limiting the Impact of a Criminal Record When Applying.
    1. Have evidence of treatment of rehabilitation.
    2. Save all criminal documentation.
    3. Accurately report criminal history.
  6. What to Do If You Are Denied Because of Your Criminal Record.