Which category is protected under familial status in the Fair Housing Act?

• A. Race
• B. Disability
• C. Familial status
• D. Sexual orientation

Answer: (C)

Familial status is a protected class under the Fair Housing Act. It protects families with children under 18 living with parents or guardians, and pregnant individuals, from discrimination in housing. This means you can’t be denied a rental, treated differently in terms or conditions, or face discriminatory advertising because someone in the household has children or is pregnant. The act requires housing practices to be neutral toward families with children. While race and disability are also protected categories, the focus here is that familial status itself is one of the federally protected classes. Sexual orientation is not protected under the federal Fair Housing Act, though some states or localities may protect it.