St. Margaret’s House operates under the guidelines of the US Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Section 8 program and serves elderly and disabled persons.
APPLYING & ELIGIBILITY
I am turning 62 in six months. Can I apply?
No. You must be 62 years old when you submit your application for housing. You must be age and income eligible at the time we receive your application.
How do you know if I’m eligible?
Initially from the information you provide on your application. When your name comes up on the waiting list, you will be required to provide current documentation on all assets and income to verify income eligibility as well as verification of age and social security number, per HUD guidelines.
Can I stop by for a tour?
We are not able to offer tours; however, you are welcome to visit our public areas.
Can I move into a 1 bedroom apartment and then transfer to a 2 bedroom apartment?
Transfers to larger units based upon personal preference will not be considered.
If my house has not sold or rented, can I still move into St. Margaret’s House?
St. Margaret’s House must be your primary residence. You must move into your apartment upon signing of the lease.
Is the money I receive from the sale of my house considered income? What if I rent out my house?
Sale proceeds are considered an asset. Rental income is considered income.
WAITING LIST
How can I get on the waiting list?
The waiting list is currently closed. It is opened periodically via a lottery system under the guidelines of a HUD-approved Affirmative Fair Housing Marketing Plan. Specific details of the lottery will be disclosed when St. Margaret’s House is ready to conduct a lottery to open the waiting list. Information will be available onsite at 49 Fulton Street, New York, NY, via this website, and various local publications.
How long will I have to wait for an apartment?
It is impossible for us to anticipate how long you will have to wait for an apartment. There are many variables, including:
- Your placement on the waiting list
- Number of applicants ahead of you on the waiting list
- Number of apartments that turnover
Will I have a choice of apartments?
No. Vacant apartments become available randomly and are re-rented accordingly.
What will happen if I do not accept the apartment that is offered to me?
Your name will be removed from the waiting list.
Can I apply again?
Yes, when the waiting list is re-opened.
How much notice will I be given to sign a lease?
It depends on how quickly apartments are vacated and are ready for occupancy. From the time of your initial interview, it can be as short as 3-4 weeks to lease signing. Our goal is to fill/occupy apartments in the shortest time possible.
RENT & AMENITIES
How much rent will I pay?
You will pay 30% of your adjusted income. Examples of income:
- Gross annual Social Security Income
- Gross annual Supplemental Security Income
- Gross annual pension income & disability income
- Gross annual employment income
- Unemployment
- Annual Periodic distributions from investment accounts and retirement accounts (IRA, annuity, 401K)
- Income from assets, savings, checking, money market, CD’s, stocks, bonds, etc.
Is the adjusted income the same as what is listed on my federal tax return?
No, it is not. The federal tax return is used as a reference to identify and match all sources of income.
Is there a minimum amount of income I need to have to qualify for an apartment?
No, but we do conduct a “zero income verification” to ferret out ALL sources of income. This includes money given to applicants for utilities and contributions from family/friends, etc. This income is counted when calculating rent.
Is the rent higher for a different or larger apartment?
No, the formula is the same. All tenants pay 30% of their adjusted gross household income for rent. Federal rent subsidy makes up the difference.
Am I required to pay a security deposit?
Yes, you are required to pay 1 month’s security at the lease signing.
What is included in the rent?
Heat and water are included in the rent.
What is NOT included in the rent?
Electricity, TV/internet, and telephone are not included. Tenants must arrange for their own utilities upon signing the lease.
Do the apartments have WiFi?
Each tenant is responsible for installing WiFi in their apartment if desired. The library, located on the first floor, has computers that are available for tenant use.
Are there grab bars in the bathroom?
Yes, grab bars are mounted in the shower and next to the toilet.
Are there any other services (like housekeeping or meals) included in the rent?
No. St. Margaret’s House is an independent living facility and residents are responsible for their own meals, housekeeping, and other care services such as home health aids.
Is transportation available at St. Margaret’s House?
St. Margaret’s House does not provide transportation. However, NYC subway stations and bus stops are within walking distance of the building.
Does St. Margaret’s House offer Assisted Living or Nursing Home services?
St. Margaret’s House is an independent living facility and does not offer any medical services.
Can I smoke in my apartment?
St. Margaret’s House is a smoke-free facility.
Is there additional on-site storage space available to tenants?
Additional on-site storage space is not available.
Are air conditioners provided?
Yes, air conditioners are provided in the living room and bedrooms.
Are there washers/dryers and dishwashers in the apartments?
No. There are coin-operated washers and dryers in the laundry room. There are no dishwashers.
Can I install a washer/dryer or dishwasher in my apartment?
No.
PETS & VISITORS
Can I have a pet?
Yes, you are allowed no more than TWO (2) four legged pets (cats, dogs, or turtle), TWO (2) birds, and a fish aquarium no larger than 20 gallons per unit.
Weight limit for dogs is 30lbs and no larger than 18-inches.
Am I required to pay security deposit for my pet(s)?
No.
Do I have to register my pet?
Yes, you are required to register your pet with the St. Margaret’s House office. If you get a pet after you move in, you must register it at that time.
Do I need to show proof of inoculations and license for my pet?
Yes, proof of inoculations and an NYC pet license for a dog or cat will be required annually in accordance with state and local laws.
If my pet causes damage to St. Margaret’s House (inside or out), am I responsible for the damages?
Yes, all costs for damages to the apartment or property caused by pets will be charged to the pet owner.
What is your visitor policy?
Adult guests (over the age of 18) are welcome to visit at any time, provided they present a valid photo ID card to front desk security upon arrival. Guests under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Can my guests visit me and stay overnight?
Yes, for up to 14 days in a calendar year.