Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: I know that Legal Aid has income requirements for assisting people. Do I have to be at a certain income to receive assistance in a Fair Housing Case?

A1: No. There are no income guidelines for receiving assistance in a Fair Housing Case. However, your income may be a factor in the Center's decision whether or not to represent you.

Q2: What does the term "fair housing" mean?

A2: Fair Housing generally refers to your right to choose where you want to live without being discriminated against because of membership in a "protected class:" race, color, religion, national origin, familial status, gender or disability.

Q3: Does the Fair Housing Act apply to retirement communities?

A3: The act applies to all housing related matters and to all kinds of residential dwellings. An exception would be that legitimately established retirement communities can refuse to accept children as tenants.

Q4: Does the Fair Housing Center help Senior Citizens?

A4: Yes, to prevent or remedy discrimination based on a protected class to which the senior citizen belongs. Age itself is not a protected class. If the senior citizen is disabled, the Fair Housing Center can help that person prevent or remedy discrimination based on their disability.

Q5: Does the Fair Housing Center provide housing or have a list of housing available?

A5: No. The Fair Housing Center is an enforcement entity that provides intake, investigation and litigation, where merited. For HUD housing available, you may log on to the HUD website located in our resources page. For subsidized housing available, contact your nearest housing authority (or see www.housingnm.org, the New Mexico Mortgage Finance Authority.)

Q6: How do I know if I've been discriminated against in a housing matter?

A6: On this website, under "Your Rights", click "Discriminatory Practices" or call the Fair Housing Hotline: 1-866-226-0068.