NYC Housing Lottery: How to apply

Finding affordable housing in New York City can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Fortunately, the NYC Housing Lottery offers a chance to secure a rent-stabilized apartment at an affordable rate. If you’re planning to apply in 2025, here’s everything you need to know about the process, eligibility requirements, and tips to increase your chances of winning an apartment.

Williamsburg Wharf A2, housing lottery closing on April 15, 2025

What is the NYC Housing Lottery?

The NYC Housing Lottery is an affordable housing program managed by the NYC Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) and the NYC Housing Development Corporation (HDC). It allows eligible individuals and families to apply for apartments in new and renovated buildings at below-market rent. These apartments are offered through Housing Connect, an online portal where applicants can view available listings and submit applications.

Housing Connect Portal

Am I eligible?

Eligibility is primarily based on income and household size, although for some lotteries there are additional requirements. Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Income Limits: Apartments are categorized by income groups based on the average income of the area. Income eligibility is determined by your gross annual income.
• Household Size: Your household must match the size requirements for the available unit.
• Age: A small number of lotteries are designated as senior residential buildings. To qualify, your household must include at least one member who is 63 years or older.
• Student Restrictions: Households composed entirely of full-time students may not be eligible unless they meet certain exceptions.
• Background & Credit Checks: Some buildings may conduct credit and background checks, though there are alternatives for applicants with no credit history.

25 Water Street Apartments, housing lottery losing on May 5, 2025

Who is Given Preference?

Certain applicants may receive priority:

NYC Residents

Non-NYC residents are eligible to apply, but priority is given to current NYC residents. A non-resident can only secure an affordable housing unit if there are no remaining qualified NYC resident applicants.

Community Board Preference

Typically, 20% of units are set aside for residents of the same Community District as the building. Check the image below to find out which Community District you belong to.

Disability Preference

5% of units are for applicants with mobility disabilities, and 2% are for applicants with hearing or vision disabilities.

Municipal Employee Preference

NYC municipal employees get priority for 5% of units.

Homeless Preference

In a small number of lotteries, some units are set aside for applicants referred by NYC’s Department of Homeless Services.

25 Water Street Apartments, housing lottery losing on May 5, 2025

Applying

The application process is completely free. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Create a Housing Connect Account: Register on NYC Housing Connect and complete your profile. Set aside some time, as the process can take a while. You’ll need to provide details about each household member, primarily focusing on income and assets..
2. Search for Eligible Lotteries: Browse available lotteries to to look for those that match your income and household size. Check regularly, as new lotteries are added almost daily.
3. Submit Your Application: Each listing will specify the deadline, make sure to apply on time!
4. Check Your Log Number: Approximately 2 weeks after the closing of a lottery, you’ll receive a lottery log number which determines the order in which applications are reviewed.
5. Prepare Your Documents: If selected, you’ll need to provide proof of income, identification, tax returns, bank statements, and rental history.
6. Attend an Interview: If your application is being processed, you’ll be invited for an eligibility interview.
7. Wait for Approval: If you meet all the criteria, you may receive an offer for an apartment.

356 East 78th Street Apartments, housing lottery closing on April 14, 2025

Common Reasons for Disqualification

Avoid these mistakes that can lead to disqualification:

• Submitting multiple applications for the same lottery
• Not responding in time to requests for information or an interview
• Providing false information

1730 Bedford Avenue Apartments, housing lottery closing March 20, 2025

How to Improve Your Chances

• Visit the Housing Connect website every couple of days to check for new lotteries that match your income and household size
• Regularly update your Housing Connect profile with accurate income and household details
• Keep a watchful eye on your email so you can respond promptly if contacted for documents or an interview

18 India Street Apartments, housing lottery closing on March 28, 2025

Final Thoughts

The NYC Housing Lottery is one of the best ways to find an affordable apartment in the city. While the process can take time and requires effort and patient patience, staying informed and prepared will significantly improve your chances of success.

Good luck, and happy apartment hunting!