Single-stair reform is gaining momentum across the U.S., with the possibility of reshaping housing accessibility, affordability, and design. By allowing taller residential buildings with a single staircase for exiting (referred to as “egress” in design), this reform could lower construction costs, create more flexible floor plans, and increase housing supply. But what does it mean for people with disabilities? While some critics raise concerns about accessibility and safety, advocates argue that well-designed single-stair buildings—equipped with elevators, fire suppression systems, and safe locations for people to gather (referred to as “areas of refuge”)—can improve housing options for disabled individuals. With cities like Seattle and New York leading the way, this movement is sparking important conversations about the future of urban housing and inclusivity.

The Kelsey celebrated the launch of An Advocate’s Guide to Advancing Disability-Forward Housing through Qualified Allocation Plans (QAPs), a new resource to help advocates shape their state’s Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) policies. Participants gained practical tools and heard real-world strategies from experts and advocates advancing disability-forward housing nationwide.

The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC), the primary driver of affordable housing, lacks federal requirements for deeply affordable, accessible units or inclusive housing with supportive services. State housing agencies shape LIHTC distribution through their Qualified Allocation Plans (QAPs). The Kelsey's, "An Advocate’s Guide to Advancing Disability-Forward Housing through Qualified Allocation Plans" equips advocates with concrete policy changes that expand housing inclusion for people with disabilities and strategies to influence their state's QAP during the public comment process.

Governments can take steps to ensure accessible homes are matched with disabled tenants. This can be done through specific best practices detailed in the article. Implementing these best practices can help ensure that people needing accessible homesapply and live in those homes.

The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program is the nation’s primary vehicle for financing affordable housing. LIHTC, however, is failing to meet the growing demand for accessible housing. Through this program, each state develops their own housing priorities through a Qualified Allocation Plan (QAP) – guidelines that help state housing agencies determine how they allocate tax credits across their affordable housing infrastructure. The Kelsey’s research reveals that accessibility is not considered a priority for 19 states, and only 22 states require developers to construct any accessible units. Advocates can help influence QAPs by submitting public comments to housing finance agencies and educating policymakers on the importance of requiring accessible design in all LIHTC properties.

As many as 1 in 4 people live with disabilities in the US and the population only continues to grow. Increasing disabled leadership will better ensure the field meets the housing needs of the over 61 million people with disabilities. This article serves as a resource for housing organizations that want to increase the participation and leadership of people with disabilities within their work, as well as a resource for leaders with disabilities who seek to engage in the housing field.

Disabled people living in households across the United States are experiencing disproportionate rates of housing insecurity due to a unique set of barriers and federal assistance programs are failing to meet their needs. The Kelsey and Urban Institute are proud to release this national needs assessment that quantifies the number of disabled people impacted by barriers of housing affordability, accessibility, and service-enriched, quality community-based housing. From the 2021 Current Population Survey, the research explores the current characteristics and living situations of housed disabled people, as well as their ability to access federal housing assistance and other support programs.

Federal policy changes can increase the supply of disability-forward housing. These supply-focused recommendations cover a range of programs and funding structures, from vouchers to tax credits. Advocates can share these policy recommendations with their members of Congress, along with their own stories about how these changes would impact their lives and community.

It is not enough to claim to center your organization’s work on inclusion. Your organization also needs to increase the disabled leadership in every facet of your work. This means ensuring your projects and programs are co-led by people with and without disabilities. Learn some tips and best practices on the critical importance of reflecting disabled leadership in your work.