How to Apply for NYCHA Public Housing (2026 Guide)

How to apply for NYCHA public housing online in 2026: who qualifies, 80% AMI income limits, priority codes, borough choices, and renewing every 2 years.

NYCHA public housing is different from NYCHA Section 8. With public housing you rent an apartment in a NYCHA development. NYCHA had 182,549 families on its public housing waitlist as of December 31, 2024, so it is important to apply correctly and keep your application active.

Who can apply

The head of household must be 18 or older (or an emancipated minor)
At least one household member must be a U.S. citizen or have eligible immigration status
Household income must be at or below 80% of Area Median Income. For 2026 that is about $95,000 for 1 person and $135,700 for a family of 4.

Step 1: Apply online

Apply through ApplyNYCHA on the NYCHA Self-Service Portal (selfserve.nycha.info). You enter household members, income, your current living situation, and a first and second borough choice. You cannot pick a specific development. No documents are needed to submit the application. You can also book a Walk-in Center appointment or request a paper application by calling 718-707-7771.

Step 2: Your priority code

NYCHA ranks applicants by priority, then by application date. It gives higher priority to some working families and to some households in urgent need, such as survivors of domestic violence, people referred by City agencies, or people who are homeless. NYCHA's Admissions and Continued Occupancy Policy lists every priority code and what it covers.

Step 3: Renew every 2 years

Applications expire after 2 years unless you renew them. Check your status and update your information on the portal.

Step 4: Eligibility interview

When your application is reached, NYCHA schedules an eligibility interview. It verifies your household, income, and Social Security numbers, runs background checks, and contacts past landlords. You then go on the certified waiting list for your borough. NYCHA says it cannot estimate how long this takes.

Get help

NYCHA Customer Contact Center: 718-707-7771, Monday to Friday, 8 AM–5 PM. Applying is free. Never pay anyone to move you up the list.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for NYCHA public housing?

Apply online through ApplyNYCHA on the NYCHA Self-Service Portal, at a Walk-in Center, or by requesting a paper application at 718-707-7771.

What is the income limit for NYCHA public housing?

80% of Area Median Income. For 2026 that is about $95,000 for 1 person and $135,700 for a family of 4.

How long is the NYCHA waiting list?

NYCHA reported 182,549 families on the public housing waitlist as of December 31, 2024, and says it cannot estimate wait times.

Does my NYCHA application expire?

Yes. You must renew it every 2 years or it expires.