• The elderly, disabled and low-income families can take advantage of public housing.boring apartments image by green308 from Fotolia.com
  
  Although there are several forms of government housing, public housing is the most common. The federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) sets out the rules and regulations of public housing. This type of public housing is available to citizens who otherwise may not be able to afford decent housing. Some rules may vary depending on the city or state in which you live, but general qualifications for public housing tenancy are the same for all.
  
  

Income Guidelines

• Resident rents are based on income and affordableblock of new apartments image by Warren Millar from Fotolia.com
  
  All HUD-operated public housing communities have income guidelines and qualifications. HUD updates these guidelines annually; they vary depending on the city and state you live in. For example, in 2010, Colorado had an income limit of $35,500 for a family of four people based on a median income of $71,000. These income limits are based on average incomes across the state. Individuals and citizens who wish to apply for public housing, but are over the income limit, may only get public housing if space is available and other circumstances are met. HUD calculates public housing rents using formulas that take into consideration your income, and some expenses such as medical costs. The minimum rent a tenant may pay as of 2010 is $25. You can check to see if you meet the income guidelines by visiting the HUD website.
  
  

Criminal History Check and References

• In order to keep public housing safe and pleasant for all tenants, management will conduct a criminal history or background check. Management may deny housing for applicants with drug charges, a history of violence or other criminal activity that may cause problems within the community. The applicant must also supply references. Management will want reassurance that you are a good tenant and can abide by the rules of the community. Poor references can disqualify you from being approved. The public housing screening process has been law since 1988 and all housing authorities use a similar screening process.
  
  

Credit and Payment Histories

• While poor credit may not help you qualify for housing, it will not automatically disqualify your application. Housing authorities, just as any other landlord, need reassurance that you will be able and willing to pay your rent and other charges in a timely manner. You may not get public housing if you owe delinquent balances to any other public housing community, or are in default on federal loans such as student loans.
  
  

Written Application

• You must supply a written application with the person(s) who will be living in the housing as well as proof of citizenship or legal immigration status, verification of income, names and addresses of previous rental history or mortgage history and banking information. Additional information may include questions regarding any disabilities, veteran status or special needs.