The National Housing Trust Fund (HTF) is a federal program to help create and preserve decent, safe, and sanitary affordable rental housing for households with the lowest incomes.
In Maryland, the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) uses HTF funds to support extremely low-income households (those earning 30% or less of the Area Median Income).
HTF funds are often combined with other federal, state, and local housing resources to help make affordable housing projects financially feasible.
Allocation Plan
DHCD must follow an Allocation Plan approved by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The plan describes how funds are distributed and the rules for their use.
2025 National Housing Trust Fund Allocation Plan
Eligible Applicants
Eligible applicants include:
- Nonprofit organizations
- For-profit developers
- Other qualified housing development entities
Eligible Activities
HTF funds may only be used for:
- Construction or rehabilitation
- Property acquisition
- Related soft costs
- Resident relocation costs
- Limited operating costs or operating reserves for HTF-assisted units
Note: HTF funds cannot be used for refinancing existing debt.
Project Requirements
Recipients must provide a certification that they will comply with HTF requirements for the full period of the project.
Applicants must demonstrate that they:
- Have the financial capacity to complete the project
- Have experience developing or managing affordable multifamily rental housing
- Can comply with HTF program requirements and reporting
- Are familiar with other housing funding programs used in the project
- Meet minimum threshold requirements
Selection & Award Process
DHCD awards HTF funds to eligible projects on a competitive and non-competitive, first-ready first-served basis, depending on fund availability.
A project can receive HTF funds in two ways:
- The Sponsor requests HTF funds as part of the project application.
- During project review, DHCD staff may recommend using NHT funds in consultation with the Sponsor.
If selected, you will receive a Notice of Award stating DHCD’s intent to provide HTF funds.
