3 Easy Steps For Applying To An NYC Affordable Housing Lottery
Who wouldn’t love to pay less for a nicer place than where they’re at now?! Well New Yorkers willing to test their luck to live luxuriously for less can do so by applying to NYC’s affordable housing lotteries.
What is the NYC affordable housing lottery program?
Under NYC Housing Connect, the affordable housing lottery program is a governmental effort to create inclusive opportunities for NYC residents across all five boroughs to have access to affordable housing. Housing is considered affordable if it’s a third or less of the resident’s income.
What should you know before applying?
To apply for an affordable housing lottery you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
- Have an income that meets a specific range (dependent on household number)
- Have your up to date household information on Housing Connect
It’s good to know that NYC residents typically have priority for HPD and HDC housing.
How to apply for an NYC affordable housing lottery?
It’s important to note that applications for an affordable housing lottery are accepted via mail or online. We will be further detailing how to apply online.
Step 1
Complete your profile on Housing Connect
Step 2
Click on “Open Lotteries” & ensure your household size and income meet the requirements
Step 3
Submit your application prior to the deadline
Once the deadline passes, each application gets assigned a random number known as a lottery log number. Time of application does not affect your chances of being selected so long as you apply before the deadline. Applications for set-asides and preferences are viewed first. It may take months to hear back about your application. Qualified applicants may never even hear back.
How are winners notified?
If you’re application gets selected you will receive a document request and must complete an interview. You will need forms of identification for everyone you will live with, proof of all their incomes such as pay stubs or tax returns, etc., and information on your current apartment such as your lease and utility bill. This will confirm if you qualified to apply.
From there, you will either receive an acceptance or rejection. If rejected, you can send an appeal. If accepted, there will be a few more steps to follow before you’ve secured a lease.
What are the chances of winning an NYC affordable housing lottery?
In years past, the chances of winning an NYC affordable housing lottery are about 1 in 590. So though it’s not easy, it’s definitely not impossible.
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