When it’s okay to self-certify in affordable housing

Self-certification can ease compliance under the right conditions. Learn when it applies for LIHTC properties and how automation supports accurate, streamlined verification.

A residential property with an inset photo of Mary Beth Snyder

Navigating the complexities of affordable housing compliance is central to Mary Beth Snyder’s role as an industry principal at Yardi. In this article, she shares insights as she addresses one of the industry’s most common and complex questions:

When can an affordable housing provider skip the lengthy process of verifying household assets and simply accept a signed self-certification form?

The simple answer is that Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) properties can use self‑certification, but only under defined, program‑approved circumstances.

Remember, self-certification isn’t a workaround. It’s a HUD- and IRS-acknowledged tool that helps ease the documentation burden under specific conditions. Used appropriately, it can save time while maintaining full compliance.

When can LIHTC managers allow resident self-certifications?

1. When verifying limited assets: Households can self-certify assets if their net family assets fall under a set threshold of $50,000, as of 2024.

Rather than chasing documentation for every small bank account or savings product, residents can fill out a self-certification form stating that their total assets fall below the limit. This simplifies processing for both staff and residents without compromising oversight.

2. When recertifying at 100% LIHTC properties: In states that allow it, developments designated as 100% LIHTC may not require full income and asset verification each year. In those cases, annual recertification focuses on student status only.

Student status remains a key eligibility factor, so it must still be verified annually. But for 100% LIHTC sites, states often streamline other requirements.

Compliance doesn’t have to be complicated

Self-certification reduces paperwork, but it doesn’t eliminate the need for solid documentation and oversight. Housing providers should always check with their state housing finance agency before implementing simplified recertification policies.

The right tools make a big difference. That’s why Yardi provides automation and built-in compliance logic through platforms like Yardi Voyager and RentCafe Affordable Housing.

Yardi Verification Services can help, even when self-certifying

Even if your LIHTC properties allow for self-certification of assets, student status is still required to be verified with backup documentation. Yardi Verification Services includes student status checks and can complete the verification process quickly without needing to fill out or fax forms. It’s as simple as your households opting in via text or email.

Learn how Yardi Verification Services can make your LIHTC compliance strategy more effective and efficient. Book a private demonstration by calling (800) 866-1144.

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AUTHOR

Mike is a marketing writer focused on the affordable housing industry. His experience includes affordable housing planning, implementation, finance and now solutions marketing. Outside of work, Mike enjoys family time, visiting national parks and Dodger baseball.

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