NYC Raises Income Limit for Rent-Freeze Programs

The new $75,000 income cap could help more seniors and tenants with disabilities save on rent in regulated units.

Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Apartments

NYC Raises Income Limit for Rent-Freeze Programs

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Should cities raise income limits to help more seniors and residents with disabilities afford rent?

The New York City Council has passed legislation to increase the household income eligibility limit for rent-freeze programs to $75,000. This change, which is currently awaiting mayoral action, would allow more seniors and residents with disabilities to qualify for relief from rent increases.

Why it matters

As housing costs rise throughout New York City, this expansion of the Senior Citizen Rent Increase Exemption (SCRIE) and Disability Rent Increase Exemption (DRIE) programs aims to help more families remain in their current homes. The legislation aligns city eligibility standards with existing state laws.

The new $75,000 income cap replaces the previous $50,000 limit for SCRIE and DRIE programs. To qualify, applicants must typically spend more than one-third of their household income on rent and live in rent-regulated units, as non-regulated apartments and public housing remain ineligible.

The players

New York City Council

The legislative body for New York City that establishes municipal policy and approves local laws regarding housing and tenant protections.

The details

The rent-freeze programs work by freezing the rent amount for eligible tenants, with the city providing the landlord with a tax abatement to cover the difference. Under the new legislation, known as Introduction 978-B, the eligibility ceiling is raised to $75,000. The change is designed to be retroactive to July 1, 2026, pending the mayor's signature.

July 1, 2026: Effective date for the income limit increase.
October 22, 2026: The New York City Council approved the legislation.
October 24, 2026: The bill reached the mayor's desk for a signature.

The Home Front

This move marks a significant expansion of the city's rent-regulation support framework, which provides critical stability for eligible tenants in an otherwise volatile housing market. By raising the income cap, the city is aligning its municipal programs with established state-level affordability guidelines.

If you are 62 or older or a tenant with a disability, review your household income documentation to see if you qualify under the new $75,000 cap. Ensure your unit is rent-regulated, as this program does not apply to public housing or non-regulated market-rate apartments.

The takeaway

This pending legislation could provide significant rent relief to thousands of city households by updating outdated income thresholds. Keep an eye on your mail for official city announcements regarding the retroactive start date of July 1, 2026, once the mayor signs the bill into law.