Understanding State Income Protection Laws for Renters

Finding an affordable home to rent can be difficult for many people, especially during hard times.

Some renters need financial help to pay rent, like using government assistance or other sources of income.
 

What Are Source of Income Protection Laws?

In many places, it is now illegal for landlords to refuse to rent to someone just because they get help paying their rent. These protections are called "source of income" laws.

They stop landlords from discriminating against renters who pay with money from sources like:
 

• Housing vouchers (such as Section 8)
• Social Security
• Child support
• Alimony or palimony

 

Why Are These Laws Important?

Not all landlords want to accept renters who use housing assistance. For example, someone from New Jersey had trouble finding a home even after she was approved for rent help through the Section 8 program.

At first, her landlord refused her application because he didn’t want to accept her voucher. But in many states and cities, that kind of discrimination is not allowed.
 

Which Places Have These Laws?

As of February 2021, 18 states, Washington, D.C., and more than 90 cities and counties have rules against discrimination based on source of income.

These laws can be different depending on where you live.
 

What If I’m Discriminated Against?

If you believe a landlord has refused to rent to you or tried to evict you because of your source of income, you have options:
 

• Contact your state or local civil rights office
• Reach out to your state attorney general’s office
• Ask the agency that provided your housing voucher for help
• The National Fair Housing Alliance can also direct you to local organizations that can help

 

Types of Housing Help

The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program is the biggest program in the country. It helps millions of Americans—including seniors, families, people with disabilities, and veterans—by using government funds to pay part of their rent directly to landlords.

Some renters pay a portion of their income for rent, and the voucher covers the rest. Usually, a home is considered affordable if it costs no more than 30% of your income.

These programs only work if landlords agree to accept vouchers. That’s why local laws are important: they ensure everyone has a fair chance at housing, no matter where their money comes from.

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