Guide
How to Apply for the NYC Housing Lottery
Practical steps for applying through NYC Housing Connect — from finding open lotteries to submitting documents if you are contacted.
Step-by-step checklist
Successfully applying for the NYC Housing Lottery requires careful preparation and an understanding of the Housing Connect platform. Follow these detailed steps to ensure your application stands out and meets all strict HPD requirements.
Find open lotteries
Browse currently open listings on our live lotteries page or NYC Housing Connect. Filter by borough, bedroom size, and AMI band before you start.
Confirm eligibility
Compare your household gross income and size to the listing's AMI range. Check preferences (community board, disability, municipal employee) on each listing.
Create or update Housing Connect
Register at housingconnect.nyc.gov. Add every household member with accurate income, employment, and housing history before applying.
Submit before the deadline
Apply online for instant confirmation. Save the confirmation number and deadline. Applications are free — only apply through the official portal.
Track status & respond quickly
After the deadline, check My Applications for log number and status. If contacted for documents or an interview, respond within the requested timeframe.
Keep these documents ready
Missing documents are one of the most common reasons applicants are disqualified. When your log number is called, you usually have only 5 to 10 days to submit the following:
- Government-issued ID for every adult household member
- Social Security cards or ITIN documentation
- Last two years of federal and state tax returns plus W-2s/1099s
- Recent pay stubs or proof of income, including benefits statements
- Bank statements, asset statements, and proof of rent payments
- Preference proofs such as disability documentation or proof of NYC residency
Not sure about your income bracket? Check the official affordable housing income limits or use our AMI Calculator to confirm your eligibility before applying.
Stay organized after you apply
Track each application’s confirmation number, deadline, and status in Housing Connect under My Applications. After the lottery runs, you may see a log number — see our log number guide for what it means.
View all currently active lotteries on our live lotteries page. If you are contacted for documents or an interview, respond immediately within the requested timeframe. Delays or incomplete paperwork are the most common reasons applicants lose their spot.