Agenda, first session — Fairfield City Council, December 6, 2022 (part 1 of 6)

For individuals with hearing or speaking limitations, dial 711 or (800) 7352922 (English). For Spanish, Tagalog or other language, please dial (800) 8553000 and provide the communication assistant with the following City telephone number: (707) 3994010.

Pursuant to AB 361 regarding public meetings held during the COVID19 emergency, councilmembers may attend via teleconference. Members of the public can observe the meeting on Comcast Cable Channel 26, ATT UVerse 99, and webstreamed live at www.youtube.com/user/FFCATV/live . The public may join the meeting via Zoom at https://fairfieldca.zoom.us/j/83523373830?pwd=QXltb1psZFl5QVV3R0ZMQkJuRm0vUT09 or via phone (408) 6380968, Webinar ID: 835 2337 3830, Passcode: 7074287400 CALL TO ORDER 6:00 PM
ROLL CALL
Councilmember Pam Bertani
Councilmember Cat Moy
Councilmember Doriss Panduro
Councilmember Chuck Timm
Councilmember Scott Tonnesen
ViceMayor Rick Vaccaro
Mayor Harry Price
INVOCATION Worship Pastor Christian Bravo, Liberty Church PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
COUNCIL REPORTS
CITY MANAGER REPORT
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PRESENTATIONS

1.Veterans Day Parade Awards Presented by Kristina Kaunzinger Contact:Karen Rees, (707) 4287767
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PUBLIC COMMENTS
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Persons wishing to address the City Council on subjects not on the agenda but within the jurisdiction of the council may do so at this time. The council cannot discuss or take action on matters not on the agenda for this meeting, but councilmembers may briefly respond to statements made or questions raised by the public, ask for clarification from staff, refer the matter to staff, request staff to report back to the council at a subsequent meeting, or place the matter on a future agenda. To speak on an agenda item please use the “raise your hand” feature or press *9 on your phone. Speakers are limited to three minutes per item.

CONVENE MEETING OF THE HOUSING AUTHORITY
The holding of a joint meeting of the City Council and Housing Authority entitles the councilmembers to receive additional compensation of $35 for attending this joint meeting.

ROLL CALL
Commissioner Pam Bertani
Commissioner Cat Moy
Commissioner Doriss Panduro
Commissioner Chuck Timm
Commissioner Scott Tonnesen
ViceChair Rick Vaccaro
Chair Harry Price
HOUSING AUTHORITY CONSENT CALENDAR
HOUSING AUTHORITY CONSENT CALENDAR NOTICE
All matters listed on the Consent Calendar are to be approved with one motion unless a member of the Authority or the public requests that separate action be taken on a specific item.

2.Resolution HA202210 of the Fairfield Housing Authority Approving, Receiving, and Filing the Housing Successor Annual Report and Directing Staff to Publish the Report on the City Website and Transmit the Report to the State Department of Housing and Community Development Pursuant to California Health and Safety Code Section 34176.1 Recommended Action
Adopt resolution.

Funding Source
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Funding Source
N/A
Contact:LaTanya Terrones, (707) 4287454
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HOUSING AUTHORITY PUBLIC HEARINGS

3.Public Hearing; and
Resolution HA202211 of the Fairfield Housing Authority Approving the Update of the Administrative Plan for the Fairfield Housing Choice Voucher Program for the Calendar Year 2023
Recommended Action
Hold public hearing and adopt resolution.

Funding Source
N/A
Tanya Tran, (707) 4287391
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RECONVENE MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
CONSENT CALENDAR
All matters listed on the Consent Calendar are to be approved with one motion unless a member of the City Council or the public requests that separate action be taken on a specific item.

4.Approval of Meeting Minutes from November 2022
Recommended Action
Approve the meeting minutes.

Funding Source
N/A
Contact:Esther Beavers, (707) 4287402
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5.Resolution 2022311 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Reconsidering and Authorizing Public Meetings to be Held Via Teleconferencing Pursuant to Government Code Section 54953(e) and Making Findings and Determinations Regarding the Same Recommended Action
Adopt resolution.

Funding Source
N/A
Contact:Karen Rees, (707) 4287767
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6.Resolution 2022312 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Setting a Hearing for January 17, 2023, Re: Appeal of Revocation of Business License #07000966 for Smoke Shop N More LLC Pursuant to Chapter 10 of the Fairfield Municipal Code
Recommended Action
The City Council is asked to set a hearing date on an appeal of revocation of business license #07000966 for Smoke Shop N More LLC.

Funding Source
N/A
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Funding Source
N/A
Contact:David Lim, (415) 4218484
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7.Resolution 2022313 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Approving Application(s) for Specified Grant Funds from the Budget Act of 2022, Item 37901010001 as Amended by AB 179, Section 19.56 Item #(9)(b)(1) (H) $1,500,000 to the City of Fairfield for Park Upgrades:

Linear Park and Allan Witt Park
Recommended Action
Adopt resolution.

Funding Source
N/A
Contact:Anna Guiles, (707) 4287399
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8.Resolution 2022314 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Approving a Consultant Services Agreement by and Between the City of Fairfield and Solano Economic Development Corporation to Provide Staffing and Resource Support to the Travis Community Consortium Recommended Action
Adopt resolution.

Funding Source
$75,000; Travis Community Consortium
Contact:David Gassaway, (707) 4287400
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9.Resolution 2022315 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Approving a Memorandum of Understanding Between the Community Action Partnership of Solano Joint Powers Authority (CAP Solano JPA) and the City of Fairfield to Provide Dedicated Administrative Staff to CAP Solano JPA
Recommended Action
Adopt resolution.

Funding Source
N/A
Contact:David Gassaway, (707) 4287400
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10.Resolution 2022316 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Approving a Professional Services Agreement and Purchase of a New VoIP System Through Reseller Maverick Networks, Inc.

Recommended Action
Adopt resolution.

Funding Source
$800,000; IT Telephone Fund
Contact:Savita Chaudhary, (707) 4287582
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11.Resolution 2022317 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Accepting $5,315,000 of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds from Solano County for the Development of Three Affordable Housing Projects, and Authorizing the City Manager to Execute Agreements with the County and Housing Development Partners for the ARPA Funds Recommended Action
Adopt resolution.

Funding Source
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Funding Source
N/A
Contact:LaTanya Terrones, (707) 4287454
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12.Resolution 2022318 of the City of Council of the City of Fairfield Adopting the Fairfield and Suisun Transit Fiscal Year 20232028 Short Range Transit Plan Recommended Action
Adopt resolution.

Funding Source
N/A
Contact:Diane Feinstein, (707) 4343808
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13.Resolution 2022319 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Authorizing the Director of Public Works to Approve Conveyance of Easements to Various Utility Providers Associated with the Installation of Electric Vehicle Charging Systems on CityOwned Lands Recommended Action
Adopt resolution.

Funding Source
N/A
Contact:Jason Riley, (707) 4287481
a

14.Resolution 2022320 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Authorizing the City Manager to Enter into an Agreement between the City of Fairfield and the State of California for Sharing Cost of State Highway Electrical Facilities
Recommended Action
Adopt resolution.

Funding Source
$10,630; General Fund
Contact:Phil Layoso, (707) 4287505
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15.Resolution 2022321 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Authorizing the City Manager to Execute a Professional Services Agreement Between the City of Fairfield and Wallace Roberts & Todd, LLC (WRT) for Consultant Services to Prepare a Parks, Recreation, & Open Space Master Plan and Authorizing an Update to the Fiscal Year 20222023 Budget Recommended Action
Adopt resolution.

Funding Source
$523,406.40; Capital Improvement Program Fund
Contact:Marisa Cumpian, (707) 4287494
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16.Resolution 2022322 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Accepting a Portion of Nelson Road into the CityMaintained Street System
Recommended Action
Adopt resolution.

Funding Source
N/A
Contact:Trisha Curran, (707) 7287471
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17.Resolution 2022323 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Authorizing the City Manager to Execute a Professional Services Agreement and NonDisclosure Agreement with West Yost Associates for the Provision of a Water Utility Master Plan and Rates Study Recommended Action
Adopt resolution.

Funding Source
$1,000,000; Water Utility Capital Fund
Contact:Michael J. Hether, (707) 4287493
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18.Resolution 2022324 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Authorizing Execution of the Improvement Agreement for the Canon Station – Planning Area 4 – Linear Park Trail Segment 3A
Recommended Action
Adopt resolution.

Funding Source
N/A
Contact:Alvin Lei, (707) 4287476
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19.Resolution 2022325 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Approving the Final Map and Authorizing Execution of the Subdivision Improvement Agreement for the Canon Station Planning Area 5 – Neighborhood R, L, K1 Subdivision
Recommended Action
Adopt resolution.

Funding Source
N/A
Contact:Alvin Lei, (707) 4287476
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20.Resolution 2022326 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Establishing the Fairfield Landscape Oversight Committee and Setting Forth Guidelines and Duties of the Committee Recommended Action
Adopt resolution.

Funding Source
N/A
Contact:Ryan Panganiban, (707) 4287017
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21.Resolution 2022327 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Approving a Contractor Service Agreement with TerraCare Associates for Landscape Maintenance Services and Authorizing an Update to the Fiscal Year 20222023 Budget for the Landscaping and Lighting Maintenance District No. 14 – Woodlake; and
Resolution 2022328 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Approving a Contractor Service Agreement with TerraCare Associates for Landscape Maintenance Services and Authorizing an Update to the Fiscal Year 20222023 Budget for the Landscaping and Lighting Maintenance District No. 17 – ChadbourneBeckCordelia
Recommended Action
Adopt resolutions.

Funding Source
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CITY OF FAIRFIELDFAIRFIELD CITY COUNCILREGULAR CONCURRENT MEETINGTUESDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2022; 6:00 PMCOUNCIL CHAMBER, 1000 WEBSTER STREET, FAIRFIELD,CA 94533 OR VIA ZOOMAGENDANotice to PublicThe City of Fairfield is committed to providing meeting facilities that areaccessible to persons with disabilities and/or have language barriers. To requestmeeting materials in alternative formats, or to request a sign languageinterpreter, realtime captioning, or other accommodation, please contact theCity Clerk's Office, at least 72 hours in advance of the meeting at (707) 4287400.For individuals with hearing or speaking limitations, dial 711 or (800) 7352922(English). For Spanish, Tagalog or other language, please dial (800) 8553000and provide the communication assistant with the following City telephonenumber: (707) 3994010.Pursuant to AB 361 regarding public meetings held during the COVID19 emergency,councilmembers may attend via teleconference. Members of the public can observe the meeting onComcast Cable Channel 26, ATT UVerse 99, and webstreamed live at www.youtube.com/user/FFCATV/live . The public may join the meeting via Zoom at https://fairfieldca.zoom.us/j/83523373830?pwd=QXltb1psZFl5QVV3R0ZMQkJuRm0vUT09 or viaphone (408) 6380968, Webinar ID: 835 2337 3830, Passcode: 7074287400CALL TO ORDER 6:00 PMROLL CALLCouncilmember Pam Bertani Councilmember Cat MoyCouncilmember Doriss PanduroCouncilmemberChuck TimmCouncilmember Scott Tonnesen ViceMayor Rick VaccaroMayor Harry PriceINVOCATION Worship Pastor Christian Bravo, Liberty ChurchPLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCECOUNCIL REPORTSCITY MANAGER REPORTCITY ATTORNEY REPORTCITY CLERK REPORTPRESENTATIONS1.Veterans Day Parade Awards Presented by Kristina KaunzingerContact:Karen Rees, (707) 4287767aPUBLIC COMMENTS PUBLIC COMMENTSPersons wishing to address the City Council on subjects not on the agenda but within the jurisdictionof the council may do so at this time. The council cannot discuss or take action on matters not on theagenda for this meeting, but councilmembers may briefly respond to statements made or questionsraised by the public, ask for clarification from staff, refer the matter to staff, request staff to report backto the council at a subsequent meeting, or place the matter on a future agenda. To speak on anagenda item please use the “raise your hand” feature or press *9 on your phone. Speakers arelimited to three minutes per item.CONVENE MEETING OF THE HOUSING AUTHORITYThe holding of a joint meeting of the City Council and Housing Authority entitles thecouncilmembers to receive additional compensation of $35 for attending this joint meeting.ROLL CALLCommissioner Pam Bertani Commissioner Cat MoyCommissioner Doriss PanduroCommissionerChuck TimmCommissioner Scott Tonnesen ViceChair Rick VaccaroChair Harry PriceHOUSING AUTHORITY CONSENT CALENDARHOUSING AUTHORITY CONSENT CALENDAR NOTICEAll matters listed on the Consent Calendar are to be approved with one motion unless a member ofthe Authority or the public requests that separate action be taken on a specific item.2.Resolution HA202210 of the Fairfield Housing Authority Approving, Receiving, and Filing theHousing Successor Annual Report and Directing Staff to Publish the Report on the City Websiteand Transmit the Report to the State Department of Housing and Community DevelopmentPursuant to California Health and Safety Code Section 34176.1Recommended ActionAdopt resolution.Funding SourceN/AContact:LaTanya Terrones, (707) 4287454aHOUSING AUTHORITY PUBLIC HEARINGS3.Public Hearing; and Resolution HA202211 of the Fairfield Housing Authority Approving the Update of theAdministrative Plan for the Fairfield Housing Choice Voucher Program for the Calendar Year2023Recommended ActionHold public hearing and adopt resolution.Funding SourceN/ATanya Tran, (707) 4287391aRECONVENE MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCILCONSENT CALENDARAll matters listed on the Consent Calendar are to be approved with one motion unless a member ofthe City Council or the public requests that separate action be taken on a specific item.4.Approval of Meeting Minutes from November 2022Recommended ActionApprove the meeting minutes.Funding SourceN/AContact:Esther Beavers, (707) 4287402a5.Resolution 2022311 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Reconsidering and AuthorizingPublic Meetings to be Held Via Teleconferencing Pursuant to Government Code Section54953(e) and Making Findings and Determinations Regarding the SameRecommended ActionAdopt resolution.Funding SourceN/AContact:Karen Rees, (707) 4287767a6.Resolution 2022312 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Setting a Hearing for January 17,2023, Re: Appeal of Revocation of Business License #07000966 for Smoke Shop N More LLCPursuant to Chapter 10 of the Fairfield Municipal CodeRecommended ActionThe City Council is asked to set a hearing date on an appeal of revocation of business license#07000966 for Smoke Shop N More LLC.Funding SourceN/AContact:David Lim, (415) 4218484a7.Resolution 2022313 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Approving Application(s) forSpecified Grant Funds from the Budget Act of 2022, Item 37901010001 as Amended by AB179, Section 19.56 Item #(9)(b)(1) (H) $1,500,000 to the City of Fairfield for Park Upgrades:Linear Park and Allan Witt ParkRecommended ActionAdopt resolution.Funding SourceN/AContact:Anna Guiles, (707) 4287399a8.Resolution 2022314 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Approving a Consultant ServicesAgreement by and Between the City of Fairfield and Solano Economic DevelopmentCorporation to Provide Staffing and Resource Support to the Travis Community ConsortiumRecommended ActionAdopt resolution.Funding Source$75,000; Travis Community ConsortiumContact:David Gassaway, (707) 4287400a9.Resolution 2022315 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Approving a Memorandum ofUnderstanding Between the Community Action Partnership of Solano Joint Powers Authority(CAP Solano JPA) and the City of Fairfield to Provide Dedicated Administrative Staff to CAPSolano JPARecommended ActionAdopt resolution.Funding SourceN/AContact:David Gassaway, (707) 4287400a10.Resolution 2022316 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Approving a ProfessionalServices Agreement and Purchase of a New VoIP System Through Reseller MaverickNetworks, Inc.Recommended ActionAdopt resolution. Funding Source$800,000; IT Telephone FundContact:Savita Chaudhary, (707) 4287582a11.Resolution 2022317 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Accepting $5,315,000 ofAmerican Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds from Solano County for the Development of ThreeAffordable Housing Projects, and Authorizing the City Manager to Execute Agreements with theCounty and Housing Development Partners for the ARPA FundsRecommended ActionAdopt resolution.Funding SourceN/AContact:LaTanya Terrones, (707) 4287454a12.Resolution 2022318 of the City of Council of the City of Fairfield Adopting the Fairfield andSuisun Transit Fiscal Year 20232028 Short Range Transit PlanRecommended ActionAdopt resolution.Funding SourceN/AContact:Diane Feinstein, (707) 4343808a13.Resolution 2022319 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Authorizing the Director of PublicWorks to Approve Conveyance of Easements to Various Utility Providers Associated with theInstallation of Electric Vehicle Charging Systems on CityOwned LandsRecommended ActionAdopt resolution.Funding SourceN/AContact:Jason Riley, (707) 4287481a14.Resolution 2022320 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Authorizing the City Manager toEnter into an Agreement between the City of Fairfield and the State of California for SharingCost of State Highway Electrical FacilitiesRecommended ActionAdopt resolution.Funding Source$10,630; General FundContact:Phil Layoso, (707) 4287505a15.Resolution 2022321 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Authorizing the City Manager toExecute a Professional Services Agreement Between the City of Fairfield and Wallace Roberts& Todd, LLC (WRT) for Consultant Services to Prepare a Parks, Recreation, & Open SpaceMaster Plan and Authorizing an Update to the Fiscal Year 20222023 BudgetRecommended ActionAdopt resolution.Funding Source$523,406.40; Capital Improvement Program FundContact:Marisa Cumpian, (707) 4287494a16.Resolution 2022322 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Accepting a Portion of NelsonRoad into the CityMaintained Street SystemRecommended ActionAdopt resolution.Funding SourceN/AContact:Trisha Curran, (707) 7287471a17.Resolution 2022323 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Authorizing the City Manager toExecute a Professional Services Agreement and NonDisclosure Agreement with West YostAssociates for the Provision of a Water Utility Master Plan and Rates StudyRecommended ActionAdopt resolution.Funding Source$1,000,000; Water Utility Capital FundContact:Michael J. Hether, (707) 4287493a18.Resolution 2022324 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Authorizing Execution of theImprovement Agreement for the Canon Station – Planning Area 4 – Linear Park Trail Segment3A Recommended ActionAdopt resolution.Funding SourceN/AContact:Alvin Lei, (707) 4287476a19.Resolution 2022325 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Approving the Final Map andAuthorizing Execution of the Subdivision Improvement Agreement for the Canon StationPlanning Area 5 – Neighborhood R, L, K1 SubdivisionRecommended ActionAdopt resolution.Funding SourceN/AContact:Alvin Lei, (707) 4287476a20.Resolution 2022326 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Establishing the FairfieldLandscape Oversight Committee and Setting Forth Guidelines and Duties of the CommitteeRecommended ActionAdopt resolution.Funding SourceN/AContact:Ryan Panganiban, (707) 4287017a21.Resolution 2022327 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Approving a Contractor ServiceAgreement with TerraCare Associates for Landscape Maintenance Services and Authorizing anUpdate to the Fiscal Year 20222023 Budget for the Landscaping and Lighting MaintenanceDistrict No. 14 – Woodlake; andResolution 2022328 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Approving a Contractor ServiceAgreement with TerraCare Associates for Landscape Maintenance Services and Authorizing anUpdate to the Fiscal Year 20222023 Budget for the Landscaping and Lighting MaintenanceDistrict No. 17 – ChadbourneBeckCordelia Recommended Action Adopt resolutions.

Funding Source
$532,282; LLMD No. 14 Woodlake Fund $458,074; LLMD No. 17 ChadbourneBeck Cordelia
Contact:Chris Lewis, (707) 4287089
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22.Resolution 2022329 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Approving an Amendment to Resolution 200823 Revising the Fairfield Youth Commission Recommended Action
Adopt resolution amending Resolution 200823.

Funding Source
N/A
Contact:Kristina Kaunzinger, (707) 4287470
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23.Resolution 2022330 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Approving the Sixth Amendment to Lease and Management Agreement with Sports Restaurant Incorporated (SRI) for Restaurant Operations
Recommended Action
Adopt resolution.

Funding Source
N/A
Contact:Kristina Kaunzinger, (707) 4287470
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24.Resolution 2022331 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Approving the Eighth Amendment to the Management Agreement with Kember Sports Management, Inc. for the Operation and Maintenance of Golf Courses and Facilities
Recommended Action
Adopt resolution.

Funding Source
N/A
Contact:Kristina Kaunzinger, (707) 4287470
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NEW BUSINESS

25.Streetscape Options to Enhance the Public Realm on Texas Street in Downtown Fairfield Recommended Action
Consider potential design options to update the aesthetic of Texas Street from Pennsylvania Avenue to Jefferson Street and provide direction to staff.

Funding Source
N/A
Contact:Ryan Panganiban, (707) 4287017
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26.Resolution 2022332 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Approving a Contractor Service Agreement with TerraCare Associates for Landscape Maintenance Services in the Landscaping and Lighting Maintenance District No. 7 – Rolling Hills; and Resolution 2022333 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Approving a Contractor Service Agreement with TerraCare Associates for Landscape Maintenance Services in the Landscaping and Lighting Maintenance District No. 11 – Paradise Valley North; and Packet Page 7 of 1050

Funding Source
$240,778; Rolling Hills Fund $136,163; Paradise Valley Fund $234,927; North Cordelia Fund Contact:Chris Lewis, (707) 4287089
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PUBLIC HEARINGS

27.Public hearing; and
Resolution 2022335 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Annexing Territory (Valley Strong Credit Union) to Community Facilities District No. 20122 (Public Safety Services, Open Space Operation, and Park Maintenance) as Annexation No. 60, Authorizing the Levy of a Special Tax Within the Annexed Territory, Submitting the Levy of a Special Tax to the Qualified Electors Thereof, and Rescinding Resolution No. 2022285; and
Resolution 2022336 of the City Council of the City of Fairfield Declaring the Results of a Special Annexation Election in Territory Annexed to Community Facilities District No. 20122 (Public Safety Services, Open Space Operation, and Park Maintenance), Determining the Validity of Prior Proceedings, and Directing Recording of Amended Notice of Special Tax Lien for City of Fairfield Community Facilities District No. 20122 (Public Safety Services, Open Space Operation, and Park Maintenance) Annexation No. 60 (Valley Strong Credit Union) Recommended Action
Hold public hearing and adopt resolutions.

Funding Source
N/A
Contact:Chris Lewis, (707) 4287089
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ADJOURN TO TUESDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2022, 6:00 P.M., COUNCIL CHAMBER.

Any disclosable public records related to an open session item on a regular meeting agenda and distributed by the City of Fairfield to all or a majority of the Fairfield City Council less than 72 hours prior to that meeting are available for public inspection at City Hall, in the 4th floor lobby, 1000 Webster Street, Fairfield, California during normal business hours.

PUBLIC NOTIFICATION
I, Esther Beavers, Deputy City Clerk, do hereby certify that I have caused a true copy of the above notice and agenda to be delivered to each of the members of the Fairfield City Council, at the time and in the manner prescribed by law and that this agenda was posted at City Hall, 1000 Webster Street, Fairfield, California on December 1, 2022.

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Agenda Item No: 2.

AGENDA REPORT
DATE:December 6, 2022
TO:Fairfield Housing Authority Chair and Commissioners
FROM:David Gassaway, Interim Executive Director
SUBJECT:Resolution HA202210 of the Fairfield Housing Authority Approving, Receiving, and Filing the Housing Successor Annual Report and Directing Staff to Publish the Report on the City Website and Transmit the Report to the State Department of Housing and Community Development Pursuant to California Health and Safety Code Section 34176.1
RECOMMENDED ACTION
Adopt resolution.

STATEMENT OF ISSUE
On February 7, 2012, the City Council of the City of Fairfield (the “City”) adopted Resolution No. 2012 25 transferring all of the assets, rights, powers, liabilities, duties, and obligations associated with the housing activities of the former Fairfield Redevelopment Agency to the Fairfield Housing Authority (the “Housing Authority”). This action in concert with the Housing Authority adopting Resolution HA201204 accepting the transfer of all assets, rights, powers, liabilities, duties, and obligations associated with the housing activities of the former Fairfield Redevelopment Agency deemed the Housing Authority as the Fairfield Housing Successor Agency (the “Housing Successor”).

On October 13, 2013, the Governor signed into law Senate Bill 341 (the “SB341”) requiring housing successors to prepare an annual report detailing the assets and functions of the housing activities of former redevelopment agencies.

Staff has prepared a Housing Successor Annual Report for fiscal year 20212022 (the “Report”), which is summarized below, pursuant to California Health and Safety Code Section 34176.1.

DISCUSSION
Under SB 341, all housing successors are required to conduct an independent financial audit of the Low and ModerateIncome Housing Asset Fund (the “LMIHAF”), prepare an annual report for each fiscal year of the housing successor, and provide the reports to the governing body, within six (6) months after the end of each fiscal year.

The Housing Successor Annual Report for Fiscal Year 2021/2022 was prepared in conformance with SB341 and includes the following findings:

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Agenda Item No: 2.AGENDA REPORTDATE:December 6, 2022 TO:Fairfield Housing Authority Chair and CommissionersFROM:David Gassaway, Interim Executive DirectorSUBJECT:Resolution HA202210 of the Fairfield Housing Authority Approving, Receiving, andFiling the Housing Successor Annual Report and Directing Staff to Publish the Reporton the City Website and Transmit the Report to the State Department of Housing andCommunity Development Pursuant to California Health and Safety Code Section34176.1RECOMMENDED ACTIONAdopt resolution.STATEMENT OF ISSUEOn February 7, 2012, the City Council of the City of Fairfield (the “City”) adopted Resolution No. 201225 transferring all of the assets, rights, powers, liabilities, duties, and obligations associated with thehousing activities of the former Fairfield Redevelopment Agency to the Fairfield Housing Authority (the“Housing Authority”). This action in concert with the Housing Authority adopting Resolution HA201204accepting the transfer of all assets, rights, powers, liabilities, duties, and obligations associated with thehousing activities of the former Fairfield Redevelopment Agency deemed the Housing Authority as theFairfield Housing Successor Agency (the “Housing Successor”).On October 13, 2013, the Governor signed into law Senate Bill 341 (the “SB341”) requiring housingsuccessors to prepare an annual report detailing the assets and functions of the housing activities offormer redevelopment agencies.Staff has prepared a Housing Successor Annual Report for fiscal year 20212022 (the “Report”), whichis summarized below, pursuant to California Health and Safety Code Section 34176.1.DISCUSSIONUnder SB 341, all housing successors are required to conduct an independent financial audit of theLow and ModerateIncome Housing Asset Fund (the “LMIHAF”), prepare an annual report for eachfiscal year of the housing successor, and provide the reports to the governing body, within six (6) monthsafter the end of each fiscal year.

The Housing Successor Annual Report for Fiscal Year 2021/2022 was prepared in conformance with SB341 and includes the following findings:

A total of $1,102,971 was deposited into the LMIHAF. Most of these funds, $1,000,000, originated from the ROPS deposits.

The ending asset balance in the LMIHAF was $1,609,004, and the majority of the funds are being used for loans, maintenance, monitoring, and administration expenses.

A total of $34,868,382 in assets owned by the Housing Successor was reported. Assets consist of loan receivables and land.

The Successor Agency does not have excess surplus funds.

The Successor Agency is in compliance with the reporting requirements under SB 341.

Staff recommends that the Housing Authority receive and file the Report and direct staff to post the Report on the City’s website before December 31, 2022, pursuant to Health & Safety Code Section 34176.1.

FINANCIAL IMPACT
N/A
PUBLIC CONTACT/ADVISORY BODY RECOMMENDATION
N/A
ALTERNATIVE ACTION
The Fairfield Housing Authority may choose not to approve this resolution. Not approving this resolution would “cause the Housing Authority to be out of compliance with California Health and Safety Code Section 34176.1.

STAFF CONTACT
LaTanya Terrones, Sr. Housing Project Manager
(707) 4287454
[email protected]
COORDINATED WITH
Finance Department
ATTACHMENTS:

Description
Proposed Resolution
SB 341 Report
REVIEWERS:

Reviewer Action Date
MayaGuerrero, Iris Approved 11/28/2022 7:57 PM
MayaGuerrero, Iris Approved 11/28/2022 7:57 PM
MayaGuerrero, Iris Approved 11/28/2022 7:59 PM
Beavers, Esther Approved 11/29/2022 11:04 AM
Beavers, Esther Approved 11/29/2022 11:04 AM
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CITY OF FAIRFIELD

RESOLUTION NO. HA2022-10

RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE FAIRFIELD HOUSING AUTHORITY APPROVING,

RECEIVING, AND FILING THE HOUSING SUCCESSOR ANNUAL REPORT AND DIRECTING STAFF

TO PUBLISH THE REPORT ON THE CITY WEBSITE AND TRANSMIT THE REPORT TO THE STATE

DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT PURSUANT TO CALIFORNIA HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE SECTION 34176.1

WHEREAS, pursuant to California Health and Safety Code (HSC) Section 34175(b) and the California Supreme Court’s decision in California Redevelopment Association, et al. v.

Matosantos, et al. [53 Cal.4th 231(2011)], on February 1, 2012, all assets, properties, contracts, leases, books and records, buildings, and equipment of the former Fairfield Redevelopment Agency (RDA) transferred to the control of the Successor in Interest to the RDA (Successor Agency) by operation of law; and

WHEREAS, pursuant to HSC Section 34176(b), the City Council of the City of Fairfield adopted Resolution 2012-25 electing for the City not to retain the housing functions previously performed by the RDA and determining that all of the assets, as allowed by law, and all rights, po wers, liabilities, duties, and obligations associated with the housing activities of the RDA be transferred to the Fairfield Housing Authority as the Housing Successor Agency (Housing Successor); and

WHEREAS, on October 13, 2013, the governor signed into law Senate Bill 341 (SB341) requiring housing successor agencies to prepare an annual report detailing its assets and functions, permitting the Report to be prepared as a component of a City’s Comprehensive Audited Financial Report (CAFR), and requiring the Report to be posted on the City’s website; and

WHEREAS, City staff prepared a Housing Successor Annual Report of the Low and Moderate Income Housing Asset Fund for the Fiscal Year 2020-2021 (Report); and

WHEREAS, the Report contains amounts deposited into the Low and Moderate Income Housing Asset Fund (LMIHAF), the ending balance of the LMIHAF, a description of expenditures from the LMIHAF, the statutory value of the assets held and owned by the Housing Successor, a description of any transfers into or out of ownership of the Housing Successor, a description of any projects undertaken during the fiscal year, status of compliance with HSC Section 33334.16, description of outstanding obligations under HSC Section 33413, income test, the senior housing test, the amount of excess surplus, and an inventory of homeownership units.

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RES. NO. HA2022-10

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NOW, THEREFORE, THE FAIRFIELD HOUSING AUTHORITY HEREBY FINDS, DETERMINES, RESOLVES, AND ORDERS AS FOLLOWS:

Section 1. The Fairfield Housing Authority approves, receives, and files the report, attached, and hereby incorporates it into this resolution as Exhibit A.

Section 2. Staff will post a copy of the report on the City’s website and transmit a copy of the report to the State Department of Housing and Community Development.

Section 3. The executive director or designee is hereby authorized to do all things necessary and proper to effectuate this resolution.

PASSED AND ADOPTED this 6th day of December, 2022, by the following vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONERS: PRICE / BERTANI / MOY / PANDURO / TIMM / TONNESEN / VACCARO

NOES: COMMISSIONERS:

ABSENT: COMMISSIONERS:

ABSTAIN: COMMISSIONERS:

_________
CHAIR

ATTEST:

____________________________

SECRETARY

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December 6
2022

HOUSING SUCCESSOR ANNUAL
REPORT For Fiscal Year 2021-2022

Low and
Moderate
Income
Housing
Asset Fund
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Housing Successor Annual Report
Low and Moderate Income Housing Asset Fund
for Fiscal Year 2021-2022 Pursuant to
California Health and Safety Code Section 34176.1
for the City of Fairfield Housing Authority
City of Fairfield Housing Authority
S:\AffordableHousing\+Development\SB341\2020-2021 Annual Report\Drafts\SB 341- Successor Agency Report FY 20-21

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Senate Bill 341 (SB341) became effective on January 1, 2014, and requires each housing successor agency that assumed the housing functions of a former redevelopment agency to post a report on its website containing information regarding the low and moderate income housing asset funds of the former redevelopment agency for the previous fiscal year. In this case, the City of Fairfield Housing Authority (FHA) assumed the housing functions of the former Fairfield Redevelopment Agency (RDA) including ownership of low- and moderate-income housing funds in addition to any funds generated by the RDA housing assets and became the Housing Successor on February 7, 2012, and is therefore required to prepare and post this report.

Health and Safety Code Section (HSC) 34176.1(f) requires an independent financial audit of the Low Moderate Income Housing Asset Funds (LMIHAF) within six (6) months of the end of the fiscal year. The independent audit of the FHA’s LMIHAF will be included as part of the Comprehensive Audited Financial Report (CAFR) prepared by Eide Bailly LLP, and will be on the City’s website located at:
https://www.fairfield.ca.gov/home/showdocument?id=6232&t=637756037543957438 .

Asset Balances and Expenditures
The LMIHAF includes all of the assets that were transferred from the RDA to the FHA as Housing Successor upon dissolution of the RDA. These assets include:
 Real property
 Affordable housing covenants
 Loans receivable
 Income from ground lease and rental property

In accordance with HSC Section 34176.1(f), specific data must now be reported annually for the LMIHAF. Senate Bill 107 (chapter 325, Statutes of 2015, effective January 2016) amended HSC Section 34176.1(f) to add a new reporting item and revise one reporting item.

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The amount the city, county, or city and county received pursuant to subparagraph (A) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (b) of Section 34191.4.

The City of Fairfield has not received any repayment amounts during this reporting period for loans it issued to the former redevelopment agency that were approved for repayment by the Department of Finance (DOF) pursuant to HSC 34191.4 (b). The DOF has indicated in correspondence to the Successor Agency to the former RDA that all former RDA low -moderate income housing loan funds must be repaid before the City is eligible to be repaid its loan amounts.

The amount deposited to the Low and Moderate Income Housing Asset Fund (LMIHAF), distinguishing between amounts deposited pursuant to subparagraphs (B) and (C) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (b) of Section 34191.4, amounts deposited for other items listed on the Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule, and other amounts deposited.

A total of $1,102,971 was deposited into the LMIHAF during Fiscal Year 2021-22 (FY 21/22). Of this amount, there were Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule (ROPS) deposits during this time frame in the amount of $1,000,000 of which $949,918 is a Supplemental Educational Revenue Augmentation Fund (SERAF) payment, and $50,082 is the Economy Inn Final loan repayment. The balance of the deposits, $102,971, were from loan repayments, interest income, and miscellaneous revenue.

A statement of the balance in the fund as of the close of the fiscal year, distinguishing any amounts held for items listed on the ROPS from other amounts.

At the close of the FY 21/22, the ending cash balance in the LMIHAF, on June 30, 2022, was$1,609,004, none of which is held for items listed in the ROPS.

A description of expenditures from the fund by category, including, but not limited to, expenditures:
(A) for monitoring and preserving the long-term affordability of units subject to affordability restrictions or covenants entered into by the redevelopment agency or the housing successor and administering the activities described in paragraphs (2) and (3) of subdivision (a), (B) for homeless prevention and rapid rehousing services for the development of housing Packet Page 15 of 1050Attachment 2 Page 3 of 12

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described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (a), and
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Expenditures from the LMIHAF during this fiscal period totaled $ $2,680,478and were used for loans, homeless prevention, and administrative expenses.

EXPENDITURES:

Development Loans
1700 Santa Monica -MidPen $ 1,271,954.00
710-724 Ohio Street $ 268,230

Coordinated Entry Homeless
PIT
$68,916
Deposit into Housing Trust
Fund
$25,000
Administration $ 1,226,378
Total Cash Expenses $2,860,478

As described in paragraph (1) of subdivision (a), the statutory value of real property owned by the housing successor, the value of loans and grants receivable, and the sum of these two amounts.

The total value of assets, not inclusive of the cash balance of $1,609,004, of which receivables and land held for resale make up the majority, of the FHA as the Housing Successor at the end of the FY21/22 was $34,868,382

Receivables $28,382,702
Land $ 6,485,680
Total 34,868,382

A description of any transfers made pursuant to paragraph (2) of subdivision (c) in the previous fiscal year and, if still unencumbered, in earlier fiscal years and a description of and status update on any project for which transferred funds have been or will be expended if that project has not yet been placed in service.

No transfers were made to other Housing Successor(s) during FY 21/22. The FHA as the Housing Successor did not receive any transfers from any other housing successors during this time Packet Page 17 of 1050Attachment 2 Page 5 of 12

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period.

A description of any project for which the housing successor receives or holds property tax revenue pursuant to the Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule and the status of that project.

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The FHA did not receive or hold property tax revenue pursuant to the ROPS for FY 21/22.

For interests in real property acquired by the former redevelopment agency prior to February 1, 2012, a status update on compliance with Section 33334.16. For interests in real property acquired on or after February 1, 2012, a status update on the project.

The FHA’s inventory of real property assets acquired by the RDA prior to Febru ary 1, 2012, includes multiple vacant parcels encompassing approximately 120 acres of land. The properties are zoned for residential, commercial, public facility and industrial business park development.

The vacant properties listed are not encumbered with an affordable housing covenant and are currently for sale.

 Ray Venning (1600 Woolner), currently under contract
 Great Jones Street (730 Great Jones Street)
 Empire Street (1133 Empire Street)
 Fairfield/Tabor (SE corner of Fairfield Avenue and Tabor Avenue)  Highway 12 (NW corner of State Hwy 12 and Pennsylvania Avenue)  Strassberger Drive and Portland Drive (multiple parcels)

The FHA has entered into a Disposition and Development Loan Agreement with a partnership comprised of a non-profit and for-profit developers for the sale of the Ray Venning site, 1600 Woolner Avenue, for a proposed 168-unit all-affordable housing development. Upon the finalization and commitment of all required construction and permanent financing it is anticipated the property sale will close escrow in early 2023 and development of the project will begin in Spring 2023. The FHA is also actively marketing the other sites.

The FHA’s inventory of real property assets acquired by the FHA after February 1, 2012, includes one parcel encompassing approximately 3.5 acres of land.

 Santa Monica Street (1700 Santa Monica Street)

The FHA has been working with an affordable housing developer, MidPen Housing, for the property it owns located at 1700 Santa Monica Street for the development of 72 units of affordable rental housing including one manager’s unit. The property transferred to MidPen in October 2021 after MidPen received an allocation of 9% tax credits in June 2021 and with the Packet Page 19 of 1050Attachment 2 Page 7 of 12

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finalization of the terms of the construction and permanent loan. Construction broke ground the first week of October 2021. Project completion is estimated in the first quarter of 2023.

The remaining real property assets transferred to the FHA are developed properties with existing affordable housing units. They are continuing to meet the affordable housing requirement.

A description of any outstanding obligations pursuant to Section 33413 that remained to transfer to the housing successor on February 1, 2012, of the housing succes sor's progress in meeting those obligations, and of the housing successor's plans to meet unmet obligations. In addition, the housing successor shall include a report posted on its Internet Web Site that includes the implementation plans of the former redevelopment agency.

The FHA had no outstanding replacement or productions requirements pursuant to HSC Section 33413.

The information required by subparagraph (B) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) A housing successor shall demonstrate in the annual report for 2019, and every five years thereafter, that the housing successor’s expenditures from January 1, 2014, through the latest fiscal year covered in the report comply with the requirements of subparagraph (A) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (a)). If the housing successor fails to comply with these requirements in any five-year report, then the housing successor’s expenditures shall be subject to restriction in accordance with subparagraph (B) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (a).

The FHA reported in the previous years’ Annual Report how it expended funds on administrative costs, monitoring of units subject to Affordable Housing Agreements for Fiscal Year (FY) 2018 - 2019, homeless prevention and loans made for affordable housing developments in FY 2017- 2018, FY 2018-2019, and FY 2019-2020. The FHA met the required expenditure set forth in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) (which requires at least 30% of funds remaining in the LMIHAF after expenditures for monitoring and preserving the long-term affordability of units subject to affordability restrictions, administration, and homeless prevention and rapid rehousing to be expended for the development of rental housing for households at or below 30% of the Area Median Income).

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The FHA will continue to evaluate other FHA and City owned sites to create additional affordable units and continue meeting the targeted regulatory expenditures.

The percentage of units of deed-restricted rental housing restricted to seniors and assisted individually or jointly by the housing successor, its former redevelopment agency, and its host jurisdiction within the previous 10 years in relation to the aggregate number of units of deed restricted rental housing assisted individually or jointly by the housing successor, its former redevelopment agency, and its host jurisdiction within the same time period.

The FHA is to calculate the percentage of units of deed-restricted rental housing restricted to seniors and assisted by the FHA, the former RDA and the City within the same time period. For this report the 10-year period reviewed is July 1, 2008 through June 30, 2018.

Test Period July 1, 2008 –June 30, 2018
# of Assisted Senior Rental Units 83
# of Total Assisted Rental Units 177
Senior Housing Percentage 47%

The amount of any excess surplus, the amount of time that the successor agency has had excess surplus and the housing successor's plan for eliminating the excess surplus.

The Excess Surplus calculation relates to a four-year calculation as defined in Section 34176.1(d) as an unencumbered amount exceeding the greater of $1 million or the aggregate amount deposited into the LMIHAF account during the Housing Successor’s preceding four fiscal years, whichever is greater.

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FY Year End Cash
Flows - Low Mod
Fund, FUND 22

Aggregate Deposits

Year
18-19 $1,661,116.00
19-20 $2,778,482.00
20-21 $1,198,039.00
21-22 1,102,971
Total deposits $6,740,608

$1,609,004
2021-2022
Unencumbered Balance

The Unencumbered Balance at FY 2021/2022 of $1,609,004 does not exceed the total amount of the preceding four years aggregate deposits of $6740,608 into the Low Mod Fund account.

An inventory of homeownership units assisted by the former redevelopment agency or the housing successor that are subject to covenants or restrictions or to an adopted program that protects the former redevelopment agency’s investment of moneys from the Low and Moderate Income Housing Fund pursuant to subdivision (f) of Section 33334.3. This inventory shall include all of the following:
(A) The number of those units
(B) In the first report pursuant to this subdivision, the number of units lost to the portfolio after February 1, 2012, and the reason or reasons for those losses. For all subsequent reports, the number of the units lost to the portfolio in the last fiscal year and the reason for those losses. (C) Any funds returned to the housing successor as part of an adopted program that protects the former redevelopment agency’s investment of moneys from the Low- and Moderate-Income Housing Fund
(D) Whether the housing successor has contracted with any outside entity for the management of the units and, if so, the identity of the entity.

1) The Housing Successor has approximately 40 homeownership units with affordability covenants resulting from former RDA low- and moderate-income funding assistance.

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10 2) The Housing Successor lost one unit with affordability covenants due to foreclosure after February 1, 2012.

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11 3) The Housing Successor did not receive any funds as repayment for loans made for units subject to affordability covenants during the FY 202 1-2022. 4) The Housing Successor did not contract with outside entities to manage the ownership units subject to affordability covenants.

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Agenda Item No: 3.

AGENDA REPORT
DATE:December 6, 2022
TO:Fairfield Housing Authority Chair and Commissioners
FROM:David Gassaway, Interim Executive Director
SUBJECT:Public Hearing; and
Resolution HA202211 of the Fairfield Housing Authority Approving the Update of the Administrative Plan for the Fairfield Housing Choice Voucher Program for the Calendar Year 2023
RECOMMENDED ACTION
Hold public hearing and adopt resolution.

STATEMENT OF ISSUE
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requires the Fairfield Housing Authority (FHA) to create, update, and maintain an Administrative Plan (Admin Plan) that reflects the local policies and practices of the FHA. HUD also requires the FHA to hold a public hearing before the approval of any substantial updates to the Admin Plan.

DISCUSSION
The Admin Plan reflects current policies and practices that improve services, provide clear guidance to FHA staff and community partners, and enhance the commitment to the clients served by the Housing Choice Voucher Program; It informs HUD of the policies and procedures that FHA utilizes to serve the needs of lowincome families that are elderly, disabled, homeless or at risk of homelessness.

Updates to this year’s Admin Plan include the following:
1) Procedures allowing FHA to lease up ProjectBased Voucher (PBV) units via a referral process for units that are restricted to individuals/families that are homeless/at risk of homelessness and require supportive services.
2) Leasing up PBV units using a common waiting list for PBV complexes that have the same or no restrictions.
3) Updates to the waiting list process for greater transparency and efficient management.

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Agenda Item No: 3.AGENDA REPORTDATE:December 6, 2022 TO:Fairfield Housing Authority Chair and CommissionersFROM:David Gassaway, Interim Executive DirectorSUBJECT:Public Hearing; and Resolution HA202211 of the Fairfield Housing Authority Approving the Update of theAdministrative Plan for the Fairfield Housing Choice Voucher Program for the CalendarYear 2023RECOMMENDED ACTIONHold public hearing and adopt resolution.STATEMENT OF ISSUEThe U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requires the Fairfield HousingAuthority (FHA) to create, update, and maintain an Administrative Plan (Admin Plan) that reflects thelocal policies and practices of the FHA. HUD also requires the FHA to hold a public hearing before theapproval of any substantial updates to the Admin Plan.DISCUSSIONThe Admin Plan reflects current policies and practices that improve services, provide clear guidance toFHA staff and community partners, and enhance the commitment to the clients served by the HousingChoice Voucher Program; It informs HUD of the policies and procedures that FHA utilizes to serve theneeds of lowincome families that are elderly, disabled, homeless or at risk of homelessness.Updates to this year’s Admin Plan include the following: 1) Procedures allowing FHA to lease up ProjectBased Voucher (PBV) units via a referral process forunits that are restricted to individuals/families that are homeless/at risk of homelessness and requiresupportive services.2) Leasing up PBV units using a common waiting list for PBV complexes that have the same or norestrictions.3) Updates to the waiting list process for greater transparency and efficient management.

FINANCIAL IMPACT
N/A
PUBLIC CONTACT/ADVISORY BODY RECOMMENDATION
The Fairfield Housing Authority Administrative Plan was made available to the public for 45 days for review and comment per HUD noticing requirements at 24 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 903.17.

ALTERNATIVE ACTION
The Fairfield Housing Authority may choose not to update the Administrative Plan; however, this action may lead to FHA conducting Housing Authority business using an outdated Administrative Plan, which is contrary to HUD regulations.

STAFF CONTACT
Tanya Tran, Housing Division Manager
(707) 4287391
[email protected]
COORDINATED WITH
ATTACHMENTS:

Description
Attachment 1: Proposed Resolution
Attachment 2: Draft Admin Plan
REVIEWERS:

Reviewer Action Date
MayaGuerrero, Iris Approved 11/28/2022 7:54 PM
MayaGuerrero, Iris Approved 11/28/2022 7:54 PM
MayaGuerrero, Iris Approved 11/28/2022 7:54 PM
Beavers, Esther Approved 11/29/2022 11:02 AM
Beavers, Esther Approved 11/29/2022 11:02 AM
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FAIRFIELD HOUSING AUTHORITY

RESOLUTION NO. HA2022-11

RESOLUTION OF THE FAIRFIELD HOUSING AUTHORITY APPROVING THE UPDATE OF THE

ADMINISTRATIVE PLAN FOR THE FAIRFIELD HOUSING CHOICE VOUCHER PROGRAM FOR THE CALENDAR YEAR 2023

WHEREAS, the Fairfield Housing Authority (“FHA”) periodically makes changes to the Administrative Plan for the Fairfield Housing Choice Voucher Program to reflect current policies and practices that improve services, provide clear guidance to FHA staff and communit y partners, and enhance the commitment to the clients served by the Housing Choice Voucher Program; and

WHEREAS, the FHA must execute an approved Administrative Plan for the Fairfield Housing Choice Voucher Program to receive rental assistance funding fro m the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development; and

WHEREAS the Fairfield Housing Authority conducted a public comment period from October 23, 2022, through December 6, 2022, on the proposed updates to the Administrative Plan for the Fairfield Housing Choice Voucher Program; and

WHEREAS, the Commissioners for the Fairfield Housing Authority have reviewed the Agenda Report dated December 6, 2022, and the updated Administrative Plan for the Fairfield Housing Choice Voucher Program and find it in the interest of the public health, safety, and welfare to authorize the revisions to the Administrative Plan for the Fairfield Housing Choice Voucher Program.

NOW, THEREFORE, THE FAIRFIELD HOUSING AUTHORITY HEREBY FINDS, DETERMINES, RESOLVES, AND ORDERS AS FOLLOWS:

Section 1. The revisions to the Administrative Plan for the Fairfield Housing Choice Voucher Program, as attached hereto, are hereby approved.

Section 2. The executive director or his assigned is hereby authorized and directed to conduct all appropriate and necessary activities to submit the approved Administrative Plan for the Fairfield Housing Choice Voucher Program to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

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RES. NO. HA2022-11

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PASSED AND ADOPTED this 6th day of December, 2022, by the following vote:

AYES: COMMISSIONERS: PRICE / BERTANI / MOY / PANDURO / TIMM / TONNESEN / VACCARO

NOES: COMMISSIONERS:

ABSENT: COMMISSIONERS:

ABSTAIN: COMMISSIONERS:

CHAIR

ATTEST:

____________________________

SECRETARY

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 1 Revised August 2, 2022

CITY OF FAIRFIELD

HOUSING AUTHORITY

ADMINISTRATIVE PLAN

Approved by Housing Authority Board of Commissioners on

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 2 Revised August 2, 2022 CHAPTER 1

OVERVIEW OF THE PROGRAM AND PLAN

INTRODUCTION
The PHA receives its funding for the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program from the Department of Housing and Urban Development. The PHA is not a federal department or agency. A public housing agency (PHA) is a governmental or public body, created and authorized by state law to develop and operate housing and housing programs for low-income families. The PHA enters into an Annual Contributions Contract with HUD to administer the program requirements on behalf of HUD. The PHA must ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations and notices and must establish policy and procedures to clarify federal requirements and to ensure consistency in program operation.

This chapter contains information about the PHA and its programs with emphasis on the HCV program.

It also contains information about the purpose, intent and use of the plan and guide.

There are three parts to this chapter:

Part I: The Public Housing Agency (PHA). This part includes a description of the PHA, its jurisdiction, its programs, and its mission and intent.

Part II: The HCV Program. This part contains information about the Housing Choice Voucher program operation, roles and responsibilities, and partnerships.

Part III: The HCV Administrative Plan. This part discusses the purpose and organization of the plan and its revision requirements.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 3 Revised August 2, 2022 PART I: THE PHA
1-I.A. OVERVIEW
This part explains the origin of the PHA’s creation and authorization, the general structure of the organization, and the relationship between the PHA Board and staff. 1-I.B. ORGANIZATION AND STRUCTURE OF THE PHA
The Section 8 tenant-based Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) assistance program is funded by the federal government and administered by the City of Fairfield Housing Authority for the jurisdiction of [Insert jurisdiction name: City of Fairfield / County of Solano.

The officials of a PHA are known as commissioners or, collectively, as the board of commissioners.

Commissioners are appointed in accordance with state housing law and generally serve in the same capacity as the directors of a corporation, establishing policies under which the PHA conducts business, ensuring that policies are followed by PHA staff and ensuring that the PHA is successful in its mission.

The board is responsible for preserving and expanding the agency’s resources and assuring the agency’s continued viability.

Formal actions of the PHA are taken through written resolutions, adopted by the board of commissioners, and entered into the official records of the PHA.

The principal staff member of the PHA is the executive director (ED), hired and appointed by the board of commissioners. The executive director is directly responsible for carrying out the policies established by the board and is delegated the responsibility for hiring, training, and supervising the PHA staff in order to manage the day-to-day operations of the PHA. The executive director is responsible for ensuring compliance with federal and state laws and directives for the programs managed. In addition, the executive director’s duties include budgeting and financial planning for the agency. 1-I.C. PHA MISSION
The purpose of a mission statement is to communicate the purpose of the agency to people inside and outside of the agency. It provides guiding direction for developing strategy, defining critical success factors, searching out key opportunities, making resource allocation choices, satisfying clients and stakeholders, and making decisions.

PHA Policy
The PHA’s mission is to provide safe, decent, and sanitary housing conditions for very low- income families and to manage resources efficiently. The PHA is to promote personal, economic, and social upward mobility to provide families the opportunity to make the transition from subsidized to non-subsidized housing.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 4 Revised August 2, 2022 1-I.D. THE PHA’S PROGRAMS
The following programs are included under this administrative plan:

PHA Policy
The PHA’s administrative plan is applicable to the operation of the Housing Choice Voucher program.
1-I.E. THE PHA’S COMMITMENT TO ETHICS AND SERVICE
As a public service agency, the PHA is committed to providing excellent service to HCV program participants, owners, and to the community. The PHA’s standards include:
 Administer applicable federal and state laws and regulations to achieve high ratings in performance measurement indicators while maintaining efficiency in program operation to ensure fair and consistent treatment of clients served.
 Provide decent, safe, and sanitary housing – in compliance with program housing quality standards – for very low income families while ensuring that family rents are fair, reasonable, and affordable.  Encourage self sufficiency of participant families and assist in the expansion of family opportunities which address educational, socio-economic, recreational, and other human services needs.  Promote fair housing and the equal opportunity for very low-income families of all ethnic backgrounds to experience freedom of housing choice.
 Promote a housing program which maintains quality service and integrity while providing an incentive to private property owners to rent to very low-income families.  Promote a market-driven housing program that will help qualified low-income families be successful in obtaining affordable housing and increase the supply of housing choices for such families.  Create positive public awareness and expand the level of family, owner, and community support in accomplishing the PHA’s mission.
 Attain and maintain a high level of standards and professionalism in day-to-day management of all program components.
 Administer an efficient, high-performing agency through continuous improvement of the PHA’s support systems and a high level of commitment to our employees and their development.

The PHA will make every effort to keep program participants informed of HCV program rules and regulations, and to advise participants of how the program rules affect them.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 5 Revised August 2, 2022 PART II: THE HOUSING CHOICE VOUCHER (HCV) PROGRAM
1-II.A. OVERVIEW AND HISTORY OF THE PROGRAM
The intent of this section is to provide the public and staff with information related to the overall operation of the program. There have been many changes to the program since its inception in 1974 and a brief history of the program will assist the reader to better understand the program.

The United States Housing Act of 1937 (the “Act”) is responsible for the birth of federal housing program initiatives. The Act was intended to provide financial assistance to states and cities for public works projects, slum clearance and the development of affordable housing developments for low- income residents.

The Housing and Community Development (HCD) Act of 1974 created a new federally assisted housing program – the Section 8 Existing program (also known as the Section 8 Certificate program). The HCD Act represented a significant shift in federal housing strategy from locally owned public housing to privately owned rental housing.

Under the Certificate program, federal housing assistance payments were made directly to private owners of rental housing, where this housing was made available to lower-income families. Eligible families were able to select housing in the private rental market. Assuming that the housing met certain basic physical standards of quality (“housing quality standards”) and was within certain HUD- established rent limitations (“fair market rents”), the family would be able to receive rental assistance in the housing unit. Family contribution to rent was generally set at 30 percent of the family’s adjusted income, with the remainder of the rent paid by the program.

Another unique feature of the Certificate program was that the rental assistance remained with the eligible family, if the family chose to move to another privately-owned rental unit that met program requirements (in contrast to the public housing program where the rental assistance remains with the unit, should the family decide to move). Consequently, the Certificate program was characterized as tenant-based assistance, rather than unit-based assistance.

The Housing and Community Development (HCD) Act of 1987 authorized a new version of tenant- based assistance – the Section 8 Voucher program. The Voucher program was very similar to the Certificate program in that eligible families were able to select housing in the private rental market and receive assistance in that housing unit.

However, the Voucher program permitted families more options in housing selection. Rental housing still had to meet the basic housing quality standards, but there was no fair market rent limitation on rent.

In addition, family contribution to rent was not set at a limit of 30 percent of adjusted income.

Consequently, depending on the actual rental cost of the unit selected, a family might pay more or less than 30 percent of their adjusted income for rent.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 6 Revised August 2, 2022 From 1987 through 1999, public housing agencies managed both the Certificate and Voucher tenant- based assistance programs, with separate rules and requirements for each. From 1994 through 1998, HUD published a series of new rules, known as “conforming” rules, to more closely combine and align the two similar housing programs, to the extent permitted by the law.

In 1998, the Quality Housing and Work Responsibility Act (QHWRA) – also known as the Public Housing Reform Act – was signed into law. QHWRA eliminated all statutory differences between the Certificate and Voucher tenant-based programs and required that the two programs be merged into a single tenant-based assistance program, now known as the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program.

The HCV program was modeled closely on the pre-merger Voucher program. However, unlike the pre- merger Voucher program, the HCV program requires an assisted family to pay at least 30 percent of adjusted income for rent.

The transition of assistance from the Certificate and Voucher programs to the new HCV program began in October 1999. By October 2001, all families receiving tenant-based assistance were converted to the HCV program.
1-II.B. HCV PROGRAM BASICS
The purpose of the HCV program is to provide rental assistance to eligible families. The rules and regulations of the HCV program are determined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The PHA is afforded choices in the operation of the program which are included in the PHA’s administrative plan, a document approved by the board of commissioners of the PHA.

The HCV program offers mobility to eligible families because they may search for suitable housing anywhere in the PHA’s jurisdiction and may also be eligible to move under portability to other PHAs’ jurisdictions.

When a family is determined to be eligible for the program and funding is available, the PHA issues the family a housing voucher. When the family finds a suitable housing unit and funding is available, the PHA will enter into a contract with the owner and the family will enter into a lease with the owner. Each party makes their respective payment to the owner so that the owner receives full rent.

Even though the family is determined to be eligible for the program, the owner has the responsibility of approving the family as a suitable renter. The PHA continues to make payments to the owner as long as the family is eligible and the housing unit continues to qualify under the program. 1-II.C. THE HCV PARTNERSHIPS
To administer the HCV program, the PHA enters into a contractual relationship with HUD (Consolidated Annual Contributions Contract). The PHA also enters into contractual relationships with the assisted family and the owner or landlord of the housing unit.

For the HCV program to work and be successful, all parties involved – HUD, the PHA, the owner, and the family – have important roles to play. The roles and responsibilities of all parties are defined in federal regulations and in legal documents that parties execute to participate in the program.

The chart on the following page illustrates key aspects of these relationships.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 7 Revised August 2, 2022 The HCV Relationships:

Congress
Appropriates
Funding
HUD
Provides Funding
To PHA
PHA
Administers
Program
Owner / Landlord Family
(Program
Participant)
Voucher specifies
Family Obligations
Housing Assistance Payments
(HAP) Contract specifies Owner
and PHA Obligations
Lease specifies Tenant
and Landlord
Obligations
Program Regulations and ACC
specifies PHA Obligations and
Voucher Funding
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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 8 Revised August 2, 2022 What Does HUD Do?
HUD has the following major responsibilities:
 Develop regulations, requirements, handbooks, notices and other guidance to implement HCV housing program legislation passed by Congress;
 Allocate HCV program funds to PHAs;
 Provide technical assistance to PHAs on interpreting and applying HCV program requirements;  Monitor PHA compliance with HCV program requirements and PHA performance in program administration.

What Does the PHA Do?
The PHA administers the HCV program under contract with HUD and has the following major responsibilities:
 Establish local policies to administer the program;
 Review applications from interested applicants to determine whether they are eligible for the program;
 Maintain a waiting list and select families for admission;  Issue vouchers to eligible families and provide information on how to lease a unit;  Conduct outreach to owners, with special attention to owners outside areas of poverty or minority concentration;
 Approve the rental unit (including assuring compliance with housing quality standards and rent reasonableness), the owner, and the tenancy;
 Make housing assistance payments to the owner in a timely manner;  Recertify families for continued eligibility under the program;  Ensure that owners and families comply with their contractual obligations;  Provide families and owners with prompt, professional service;  Comply with all fair housing and equal opportunity requirements, HUD regulations and requirements, the Annual Contributions Contract, HUD-approved applications for funding, the PHA’s administrative plan, and other applicable federal, state, and local laws.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 9 Revised August 2, 2022 What Does the Owner Do?
The owner has the following major responsibilities:
 Screen families who apply for tenancy, to determine suitability as renters. - The PHA can provide some information to the owner, but the primary responsibility for tenant screening rests with the owner.
- The owner should consider family background factors such as rent and bill-paying history, history of caring for property, respecting the rights of others to peaceful enjoyment of the property, compliance with essential conditions of tenancy, whether the family is engaging in drug-related criminal activity or other criminal activity that might threaten others.  Comply with the terms of the Housing Assistance Payments contract executed with the PHA;  Comply with all applicable fair housing laws and do not discriminate against anyone;  Maintain the housing unit in accordance with Housing Quality Standards (HQS) and make necessary repairs in a timely manner;
 Collect rent due from the assisted family and otherwise comply with and enforce provisions of the dwelling lease.

What Does the Family Do?
The family has the following responsibilities:
 Provide the PHA with complete and accurate information as determined by the PHA to be necessary for administration of the program;
 Make their best and most timely efforts to locate qualified and suitable housing;  Attend all appointments scheduled by the PHA;
 Allow the PHA to inspect the unit at reasonable times and after reasonable notice;  Take responsibility for care of the housing unit, including any violations of housing quality standards caused by the family;
 Comply with the terms of the lease with the owner;
 Comply with the family obligations of the voucher program;  Not commit serious or repeated violations of the lease;  Not engage in drug-related or violent criminal activity;  Notify the PHA and the owner before moving or terminating the lease;  Use the assisted unit only for residence and as the sole residence of the family. Not sublet the unit, assign the lease, or have any interest in the unit;
 Promptly notify the PHA of any changes in family composition;  Not commit fraud, bribery, or any other corrupt or criminal act in connection with any housing programs.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 10 Revised August 2, 2022 1-II.D. APPLICABLE REGULATIONS
Applicable regulations include:
 24 CFR Part 5: General Program Requirements
 24 CFR Part 8: Nondiscrimination
 24 CFR Part 35: Lead-Based Paint
 24 CFR Part 100: The Fair Housing Act
 24 CFR Part 982: Section 8 Tenant-Based Assistance: Housing Choice Voucher Program  24 CFR Part 983: Project-Based Vouchers
 24 CFR Part 985: The Section 8 Management Assessment Program (SEMAP) Packet Page 38 of 1050Attachment 2 Page 10 of 487

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 11 Revised August 2, 2022 PART III: THE HCV ADMINISTRATIVE PLAN
1-III.A. OVERVIEW AND PURPOSE OF THE PLAN
The administrative plan is required by HUD. The purpose of the administrative plan is to establish policies for carrying out the programs in a manner consistent with HUD requirements and local goals and objectives contained in the PHA’s agency plan. This administrative plan is a supporting document to the PHA agency plan, and is available for public review as required by CFR 24 Part 903.

This administrative plan is set forth to define the PHA's local policies for operation of the housing programs in accordance with federal laws and regulations. All issues related to the HCV program not addressed in this document are governed by such federal regulations, HUD handbooks and guidebooks, notices, and other applicable law. The policies in this administrative plan have been designed to ensure compliance with the consolidated ACC and all HUD-approved applications for program funding.

The PHA is responsible for complying with all changes in HUD regulations pertaining to the HCV program. If such changes conflict with this plan, HUD regulations will have precedence.

Administration of the HCV program and the functions and responsibilities of PHA staff shall be in compliance with the PHA's personnel policy and HUD regulations as well as all federal, state and local fair housing laws and regulations.
1-III.B. CONTENTS OF THE PLAN [24 CFR 982.54]
The HUD regulations at 24 CFR 982.54 define the policies that must be included in the administrative plan. They are as follow:
 Selection and admission of applicants from the PHA waiting list, including any PHA admission preferences, procedures for removing applicant names from the waiting list, and procedures for closing and reopening the PHA waiting list (Chapter 4);  Issuing or denying vouchers, including PHA policy governing the voucher term and any extensions of the voucher term. If the PHA decides to allow extensions of the voucher term, the PHA administrative plan must describe how the PHA determines whether to grant extensions, and how the PHA determines the length of any extension (Chapter 5);  Any special rules for use of available funds when HUD provides funding to the PHA for a special purpose (e.g., desegregation), including funding for specified families or a specified category of families (Chapter 4);
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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 12 Revised August 2, 2022  Occupancy policies, including definition of what group of persons may qualify as a 'family', definition of when a family is considered to be 'continuously assisted'; standards for denying admission or terminating assistance based on criminal activity or alcohol abuse in accordance with 982.553 (Chapters 3 and 12);
 Encouraging participation by owners of suitable units located outside areas of low income or minority concentration (Chapter 13);
 Assisting a family that claims that illegal discrimination has prevented the family from leasing a suitable unit (Chapter 2);
 Providing information about a family to prospective owners (Chapters 3 and 9);  Disapproval of owners (Chapter 13);
 Subsidy standards (Chapter 5);
 Family absence from the dwelling unit (Chapter 12);
 How to determine who remains in the program if a family breaks up (Chapter 3);  Informal review procedures for applicants (Chapter 16);  Informal hearing procedures for participants (Chapter 16);  The process for establishing and revising voucher payment standards, including policies on administering decreases in the payment standard during the HAP contract term (Chapter 16);  The method of determining that rent to owner is a reasonable rent (initially and during the term of a HAP contract) (Chapter 8);
 Special policies concerning special housing types in the program (e.g., use of shared housing) (Chapter 15);
 Policies concerning payment by a family to the PHA of amounts the family owes the PHA (Chapter 16);
 Interim redeterminations of family income and composition (Chapter 11);  Restrictions, if any, on the number of moves by a participant family (Chapter 10);  Approval by the board of commissioners or other authorized officials to charge the administrative fee reserve (Chapter 16);
 Procedural guidelines and performance standards for conducting required housing quality standards inspections (Chapter 8); and
 PHA screening of applicants for family behavior or suitability for tenancy (Chapter 3).

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 13 Revised August 2, 2022 Mandatory vs. Discretionary Policy
HUD makes a distinction between:
 Mandatory policies: those driven by legislation, regulations, current handbooks, notices, and legal opinions, and
 Optional, non-binding guidance, including guidebooks, notices that have expired and recommendations from individual HUD staff.

HUD expects PHAs to adopt local policies and procedures that are consistent with mandatory policies in areas where HUD gives the PHA discretion. The PHA's administrative plan is the foundation of those policies and procedures. HUD’s directions require PHAs to make policy choices that provide sufficient guidance to staff and ensure consistency to program applicants and participants.

Creating policies based upon HUD guidance is not mandatory but provides a PHA with a “safe harbor.” HUD has already determined that the recommendations and suggestions it makes are consistent with mandatory policies. If a PHA adopts an alternative strategy, it must make its own determination that the alternative approach is consistent with legislation, regulations, and other mandatory requirements. There may be very good reasons for adopting a policy or procedure that is different than HUD’s safe harbor, but PHAs should carefully think through those decisions. 1-III.C. ORGANIZATION OF THE PLAN
The plan is organized to provide information to users in particular areas of operation. 1-III.D. UPDATING AND REVISING THE PLAN
The PHA will revise this administrative plan as needed to comply with changes in HUD regulations.

The original plan and any changes must be approved by the board of commissioners of the agency, the pertinent sections included in the Agency Plan, and a copy provided to HUD.

PHA Policy
The PHA will review and update the plan as needed, to reflect changes in regulations, PHA operations, or when needed to ensure staff consistency in operation.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 1 Revised August 2, 2022

CHAPTER 2

FAIR HOUSING AND EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

INTRODUCTION
This chapter explains the laws and HUD regulations requiring PHAs to affirmatively further civil rights and fair housing in all federally assisted housing programs. The letter and spirit of these laws are implemented through consistent policy and processes. The responsibility to further nondiscrimination pertains to all areas of the PHA’s housing choice voucher (HCV) operations.

This chapter describes HUD regulations and PHA policies related to these topics in three parts:

Part I: Nondiscrimination. This part presents the body of laws and regulations governing the responsibilities of the PHA regarding nondiscrimination.

Part II: Policies Related to Persons with Disabilities. This part discusses the rules and policies of the housing choice voucher program related to reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities. These rules and policies are based on the Fair Housing Act (42.U.S.C.) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and incorporate guidance from the Joint Statement of The Department of Housing and Urban Development and the Department of Justice (DOJ), issued May 17, 2004.

Part III: Prohibition of Discrimination Against Limited English Proficiency Persons. This part details the obligations of the PHA to ensure meaningful access to the HCV program and its activities by persons with limited English proficiency (LEP). This part incorporates the Final Guidance to Federal Financial Assistance Recipients Regarding Title VI Prohibition against National Origin Discrimination Affecting Limited English Proficient Persons published January 22, 2007, in the Federal Register.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 2 Revised August 2, 2022

PART I: NONDISCRIMINATION
2-I.A. OVERVIEW
Federal laws require PHAs to treat all applicants and participants equally, providing the same opportunity to access services, regardless of family characteristics and background. Federal law prohibits discrimination in housing on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, familial status, and disability. In addition, HUD regulations provide for additional protections regarding sexual orientation, gender identity, and marital status. The PHA will comply fully with all federal, state, and local nondiscrimination laws, and with rules and regulations governing fair housing and equal opportunity in housing and employment, including:
 Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964
 Title VIII of the Civil Rights Act of 1968 (as amended by the Community Development Act of 1974 and the Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988)
 Executive Orders 11063 and 13988
 Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
 The Age Discrimination Act of 1975
 Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (to the extent that it applies, otherwise Section 504 and the Fair Housing Amendments govern)
 The Equal Access to Housing in HUD Programs Regardless of Sexual Orientation or Gender Identity Final Rule, published in the Federal Register February 3, 2012, and further clarified in Notice PIH 2014-20
 Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013 (VAWA) When more than one civil rights law applies to a situation, the laws will be read and applied together.

Any applicable state laws or local ordinances and any legislation protecting individual rights of tenants, applicants, or staff that may subsequently be enacted will also apply.

PHA Policy
No state or local nondiscrimination laws or ordinances apply.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 3 Revised August 2, 2022 2-I.B. NONDISCRIMINATION
Federal regulations prohibit discrimination against certain protected classes and other groups of people.

State and local requirements, as well as PHA policies, can prohibit discrimination based on other factors.

The PHA shall not discriminate because of race, color, sex, religion, familial status, age, disability, or national origin (called “protected classes”)
Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women, and people securing custody of children under the age of 18.

The PHA will not discriminate on the basis of marital status, gender identity, or sexual orientation [FR Notice 02/03/12; Executive Order 13988].

PHA Policy
The PHA identifies the following additional protected classes o Gender identity, gender expression
o Sexual orientation
o Marital status
o Medical condition
o Military or veteran status
o Ancestry
o Primary language
o Source of income
o Genetic information

The PHA will not use any of these factors to:
 Deny to any family the opportunity to apply for housing, nor deny to any qualified applicant the opportunity to participate in the housing choice voucher program  Provide housing that is different from that provided to others  Subject anyone to segregation or disparate treatment
 Subject anyone to sexual harassment
 Restrict anyone's access to any benefit enjoyed by others in connection with the housing program  Treat a person differently in determining eligibility or other requirements for admission  Steer an applicant or participant toward or away from a particular area based any of these factors  Deny anyone access to the same level of services
 Deny anyone the opportunity to participate in a planning or advisory group that is an integral part of the housing program
 Discriminate in the provision of residential real estate transactions  Discriminate against someone because they are related to or associated with a member of a protected class
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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 4 Revised August 2, 2022  Publish or cause to be published an advertisement or notice indicating the availability of housing that prefers or excludes persons who are members of a protected class

Providing Information to Families and Owners
The PHA must take steps to ensure that families and owners are fully aware of all applicable civil rights laws. As part of the briefing process, the PHA must provide information to HCV applicant families about civil rights requirements and the opportunity to rent in a broad range of neighborhoods [24 CFR 982.301]. The Housing Assistance Payments (HAP) contract informs owners of the requirement not to discriminate against any person because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, familial status, or disability in connection with the contract.

Discrimination Complaints
If an applicant or participant believes that any family member has been discriminated against by the PHA or an owner, the family should advise the PHA. The PHA should make every reasonable attempt to determine whether the applicant’s or participant’s assertions have merit and take any warranted corrective action. In addition, the PHA is required to provide the applicant or participant with information about how to file a discrimination complaint [24 CFR 982.304].

Upon receipt of a housing discrimination complaint, the PHA is required to:
 Provide written notice of the complaint to those alleged and inform the complainant that such notice was made
 Investigate the allegations and provide the complainant and those alleged with findings and either a proposed corrective action or an explanation of why corrective action is not warranted  Keep records of all complaints, investigations, notices, and corrective actions [Notice PIH 2014-20]
PHA Policy
Applicants or participants who believe that they have been subject to unlawful discrimination may notify the PHA either orally or in writing.

Within 10 business days of receiving the complaint, the PHA will provide a written notice to those alleged to have violated the rule. The PHA will also send a written notice to the complainant informing them that notice was sent to those alleged to have violated the rule, as well as information on how to complete and submit a housing discrimination complaint form to HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO).

The PHA will attempt to remedy discrimination complaints made against the PHA and will conduct an investigation into all allegations of discrimination.

Within 10 business days following the conclusion of the PHA's investigation, the PHA will provide the complainant and those alleged to have violated the rule with findings and either a proposed corrective action plan or an explanation of why corrective action is not warranted.

The PHA will keep a record of all complaints, investigations, notices, and corrective actions. (See Chapter 16.)
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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 5 Revised August 2, 2022 PART II: POLICIES RELATED TO PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES
2-II.A. OVERVIEW
One type of disability discrimination prohibited by the Fair Housing Act is the refusal to make reasonable accommodation in rules, policies, practices, or services when such accommodation may be necessary to afford a person with a disability the equal opportunity to use and enjoy a program or dwelling under the program.

The PHA must ensure that persons with disabilities have full access to the PHA’s programs and services. This responsibility begins with the first contact by an interested family and continues through every aspect of the program.

PHA Policy
The PHA will ask all applicants and participants if they require any type of accommodations, in writing, on the intake application, reexamination documents, and notices of adverse action by the PHA, by including the following language:
“If you or anyone in your family is a person with disabilities, and you require a specific accommodation in order to fully utilize our programs and services, please contact the housing authority.”
A specific name and phone number of designated staff will be provided to process requests for accommodation.

The PHA will display posters and other housing information and signage in locations throughout the PHA’s office in such a manner as to be easily readable from a wheelchair. 2-II.B. DEFINITION OF REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION
A reasonable accommodation is an adjustment made to a rule, policy, practice, or service that allows a person with a disability to have equal access to the HCV program. For example, reasonable accommodations may include making home visits, extending the voucher term, or approving an exception payment standard in order for a participant to lease an accessible dwelling unit.

Federal regulations stipulate that requests for accommodations will be considered reasonable if they do not create an “undue financial and administrative burden” for the PHA or result in a “fundamental alteration” in the nature of the program or service offered. A fundamental alteration is a modification that alters the essential nature of a provider’s operations.

Types of Reasonable Accommodations
When needed, the PHA will modify normal procedures to accommodate the needs of a person with disabilities. Examples include:
 Permitting applications and reexaminations to be completed by mail  Conducting home visits
 Using higher payment standards (either within the acceptable range or with HUD approval of a Packet Page 46 of 1050Attachment 2 Page 18 of 487

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 6 Revised August 2, 2022 payment standard outside the PHA range) if the PHA determines this is necessary to enable a person with disabilities to obtain a suitable housing unit
 Providing time extensions for locating a unit when necessary, because of lack of availability of accessible units or special challenges of the family in seeking a unit  Permitting an authorized designee or advocate to participate in the application or certification process and any other meetings with PHA staff
2-II.C. REQUEST FOR AN ACCOMMODATION
If an applicant or participant indicates that an exception, change, or adjustment to a rule, policy, practice, or service is needed because of a disability, HUD requires that the PHA treat the information as a request for a reasonable accommodation, even if no formal request is made [Joint Statement of the Departments of HUD and Justice: Reasonable Accommodations under the Fair Housing Act].

The family must explain what type of accommodation is needed to provide the person with the disability full access to the PHA’s programs and services.

If the need for the accommodation is not readily apparent or known to the PHA, the family must explain the relationship between the requested accommodation and the disability. There must be an identifiable connection, or nexus, between the requested accommodation and the individual’s disability.

PHA Policy
The PHA will encourage the family to make its request in writing using a reasonable accommodation request form. However, the PHA will consider the accommodation any time the family indicates that an accommodation is needed whether or not a formal written request is submitted.
2-II.D. VERIFICATION OF DISABILITY
The regulatory civil rights definition for persons with disabili ties is provided in exhibit 2-1 at the end of this chapter. The definition of a person with a disability for the purpose of obtaining a reasonable accommodation is much broader than the HUD definition of disability which is used for waiting list preferences and income allowances.

Before providing an accommodation, the PHA must determine that the person meets the definition of a person with a disability, and that the accommodation will enhance the family’s access to the PHA’s programs and services.

If a person’s disability is obvious or otherwise known to the PHA, and if the need for the requested accommodation is also readily apparent or known, no further verification will be required [Joint Statement of the Departments of HUD and Justice: Reasonable Accommodations under the Fair Housing Act].

If a family indicates that an accommodation is required for a disability that is not obvious or otherwise known to the PHA, the PHA must verify that the person meets the definition of a person with a disability, and that the limitations imposed by the disability require the requested accommodation.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 7 Revised August 2, 2022 When verifying a disability, the PHA will follow the verification policies provided in Chapter 7. All information related to a person’s disability will be treated in accordance with the confidentiality policies provided in Chapter 16. In addition to the general requirements that govern all verification efforts, the following requirements apply when verifying a disability:
 Third-party verification must be obtained from an individual identified by the family who is competent to make the determination. A doctor or other medical professional, a peer support group, a non-medical service agency, or a reliable third party who is in a position to know about the individual’s disability may provide verification of a disability [Joint Statement of the Departments of HUD and Justice: Reasonable Accommodations under the Fair Housing Act]  The PHA must request only information that is necessary to evaluate the disability-related need for the accommodation. The PHA will not inquire about the nature or extent of any disability.  Medical records will not be accepted or retained in the participant file.  In the event that the PHA does receive confidential information about a person’s specific diagnosis, treatment, or the nature or severity of the disability, the PHA will dispose of it. In place of the information, the PHA will note in the file that the disability and other requested information have been verified, the date the verification was received, and the name and address of the knowledgeable professional who sent the information [Notice PIH 2010-26]. 2-II.E. APPROVAL/DENIAL OF A REQUESTED ACCOMMODATION [Joint Statement of the Departments of HUD and Justice: Reasonable Accommodations under the Fair Housing Act, Notice PIH 2010-26].

The PHA must approve a request for an accommodation if the following three conditions are met:
 The request was made by or on behalf of a person with a disability.  There is a disability-related need for the accommodation.  The requested accommodation is reasonable, meaning it would not impose an undue financial and administrative burden on the PHA, or fundamentally alter the nature of the PHA’s HCV operations (including the obligation to comply with HUD requirements and regulations).

Requests for accommodations must be assessed on a case-by-case basis, taking into account factors such as the overall size of the PHA’s program with respect to the number of employees, type of facilities and size of budget, type of operation including composition and structure of workforce, the nature and cost of the requested accommodation, and the availability of alternative accommodations that would effectively meet the family’s disability-related needs.

Before making a determination whether to approve the request, the PHA may enter into discussion and negotiation with the family, request more information from the family, or may require the family to sign a consent form so that the PHA may verify the need for the requested accommodation.

PHA Policy
After a request for an accommodation is presented, the PHA will respond in writing within 10 business days.

If the PHA denies a request for an accommodation because there is no relationship, or nexus, found between the disability and the requested accommodation, the notice will inform the family Packet Page 48 of 1050Attachment 2 Page 20 of 487

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 8 Revised August 2, 2022 of the right to appeal the PHA’s decision through an informal review (if applicable) or informal hearing (see Chapter 16).

If the PHA denies a request for an accommodation because it is not reasonable (it would impose an undue financial and administrative burden or fundamentally alter the nature of the PHA’s operations), the PHA will discuss with the family whether an alternative accommodation could effectively address the family’s disability-related needs without a fundamental alteration to the HCV program and without imposing an undue financial and administrative burden.

If the PHA believes that the family has failed to identify a reasonable alternative accommodation after interactive discussion and negotiation, the PHA will notify the family in writing of its determination within 10 business days from the date of the most recent discussion or communication with the family.
2-II.F. PROGRAM ACCESSIBILITY FOR PERSONS WITH HEARING OR VISION

IMPAIRMENTS
HUD regulations require the PHA to ensure that persons with disabilities related to hearing and vision have reasonable access to the PHA's programs and services [24 CFR 8.6].

At the initial point of contact with each applicant, the PHA shall inform all applicants of alternative forms of communication that can be used other than plain language paperwork.

PHA Policy
To meet the needs of persons with hearing impairments, TTD/TTY (text telephone display / teletype) communication will be available.

To meet the needs of persons with vision impairments, large-print and audio versions of key program documents will be made available upon request. When visual aids are used in public meetings or presentations, or in meetings with PHA staff, one-on-one assistance will be provided upon request.

Additional examples of alternative forms of communication are sign language interpretation; having material explained orally by staff; or having a third-party representative (a friend, relative or advocate, named by the applicant) to receive, interpret, and explain housing materials and be present at all meetings.
2-II.G. PHYSICAL ACCESSIBILITY
The PHA must comply with a variety of regulations pertaining to physical accessibility, including the following:
 Notice PIH 2010-26
 Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
 The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990
 The Architectural Barriers Act of 1968
 The Fair Housing Act of 1988
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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 9 Revised August 2, 2022 The PHA’s policies concerning physical accessibility must be readily available to applicants and participants. They can be found in three key documents:
 This plan describes the key policies that govern the PHA’s responsibilities with regard to physical accessibility.
 Notice PIH 2010-26 summarizes information about pertinent laws and implementing regulations related to nondiscrimination and accessibility in federally funded housing programs.  The PHA Plan provides information about self-evaluation, needs assessment, and transition plans.

The design, construction, or alteration of PHA facilities must conform to the Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards (UFAS). Newly constructed facilities must be designed to be readily accessible to and usable by persons with disabilities. Alterations to existing facilities must be accessible to the maximum extent feasible, defined as not imposing an undue financial and administrative burden on the operations of the HCV program.

When issuing a voucher to a family that includes an individual with disabilities, the PHA will include a current list of available accessible units known to the PHA and will assist the family in locating an available accessible unit, if necessary.

In general, owners must permit the family to make reasonable modifications to the unit. However, the owner is not required to pay for the modification and may require that the unit be restored to its original state at the family’s expense when the family moves.
2-II.H. DENIAL OR TERMINATION OF ASSISTANCE
A PHA’s decision to deny or terminate the assistance of a family that includes a person with disabilities is subject to consideration of reasonable accommodation [24 CFR 982.552 (2)(iv)].

When applicants with disabilities are denied assistance, the notice of denial must inform them of the PHA’s informal review process and their right to request an informal review. In addition, the notice must inform applicants with disabilities of their right to request reasonable accommodations to participate in the informal review process.

When a participant family’s assistance is terminated, the notice of termination must inform them of the PHA’s informal hearing process and their right to request a hearing and reasonable accommodation.

When reviewing reasonable accommodation requests, the PHA must consider whether any mitigating circumstances can be verified to explain and overcome the problem that led to the PHA’s decision to deny or terminate assistance. If a reasonable accommodation will allow the family to meet the requirements, the PHA must make the accommodation.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 10 Revised August 2, 2022 PART III: IMPROVING ACCESS TO SERVICES FOR PERSONS WITH LIMITED ENGLISH

PROFICIENCY (LEP)
2-III.A. OVERVIEW
Language for Limited English Proficiency Persons (LEP) can be a barrier to accessing important benefits or services, understanding, and exercising important rights, complying with applicable responsibilities, or understanding other information provided by the HCV program. In certain circumstances, failure to ensure that LEP persons can effectively participate in or benefit from federally assisted programs and activities may violate the prohibition under Title VI against discrimination on the basis of national origin. This part incorporates the Final Guidance to Federal Assistance Recipients Regarding Title VI Prohibition against National Origin Discrimination Affecting Limited English Proficient Persons, published January 22, 2007, in the Federal Register.

The PHA will take affirmative steps to communicate with people who need services or information in a language other than English. These persons will be referred to as Persons with Limited English Proficiency (LEP).

LEP is defined as persons who do not speak English as their primary language and who have a limited ability to read, write, speak, or understand English. For the purposes of this administrative plan, LEP persons are HCV applicants and participants, and parents and family members of applicants and participants.

In order to determine the level of access needed by LEP persons, the PHA will balance the following four factors: (1) the number or proportion of LEP persons eligible to be served or likely to be encountered by the Housing Choice Voucher program; (2) the frequency with which LEP persons come into contact with the program; (3) the nature and importance of the program, activity, or service provided by the program to people’s lives; and (4) the resources available to the PHA and costs.

Balancing these four factors will ensure meaningful access by LEP persons to critical services while not imposing undue burdens on the PHA.
2-III.B. ORAL INTERPRETATION
The PHA will offer competent interpretation services free of charge, upon request, to the LEP person.

PHA Policy
The PHA will utilize a language line for telephone interpreter services.

When exercising the option to conduct remote briefings, informal reviews, or hearings, however, the PHA will coordinate with a remote interpretation service which, when available, uses video conferencing technology rather than voice-only interpretation.

Where LEP persons desire, they will be permitted to use, at their own expense, an interpreter of their own choosing, in place of or as a supplement to the free language services offered by the PHA. The PHA, at its discretion, may choose to use the language services even when LEP persons desire to use an interpreter of their choosing. The interpreter may be a family member or Packet Page 51 of 1050Attachment 2 Page 23 of 487

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 11 Revised August 2, 2022 friend. If the interpreter chosen by the family is a minor, the PHA will not rely on the minor to serve as the interpreter.

The PHA will analyze the various kinds of contacts it has with the public, to assess language needs and decide what reasonable steps should be taken. “Reasonable steps” may not be reasonable where the costs imposed substantially exceed the benefits.

Where feasible and possible, according to its language assistance plan (LAP), the PHA will train and hire bilingual staff to be available to act as interpreters and translators, will pool resources with other PHAs, and will standardize documents.
2-III.C. WRITTEN TRANSLATION
Translation is the replacement of a written text from one language into an equivalent written text in another language.

PHA Policy
In order to comply with written-translation obligations, the PHA will take the following steps:

The PHA will provide written translations of vital documents for each eligible LEP language group that constitutes 5 percent or 1,000 persons, whichever is less, of the population of persons eligible to be served or likely to be affected or encountered.

Translation of other documents, if needed, can be provided orally; or If there are fewer than 50 persons in a language group that reaches the 5 percent trigger, the PHA does not translate vital written materials, but provides written notice in the primary language of the LEP language group of the right to receive competent oral interpretation of those written materials, free of cost. 2-III.D. IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
After completing the four-factor analysis and deciding what language assistance services are appropriate, the PHA shall determine whether it is necessary to develop a written implementation plan to address the identified needs of the LEP populations it serves.

If the PHA determines that it is not necessary to develop a written implementation plan, the absence of a written plan does not obviate the underlying obligation to ensure meaningful access by LEP persons to the PHA’s Housing Choice Voucher program and services.

PHA Policy
If it is determined that the PHA serves very few LEP persons, and the PHA has very limited resources, the PHA will not develop a written LEP plan, but will consider alternative ways to articulate in a reasonable manner a plan for providing meaningful access. Entities having significant contact with LEP persons, such as schools, grassroots and faith-based organizations, community groups, and groups working with new immigrants will be contacted for input into the process.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 12 Revised August 2, 2022 If the PHA determines it is appropriate to develop a written LEP plan, the following five steps will be taken: (1) Identifying LEP individuals who need language assistance; (2) identifying language assistance measures; (3) training staff; (4) providing notice to LEP persons; and (5) monitoring and updating the LEP plan.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 13 Revised August 2, 2022 EXHIBIT 2-1: DEFINITION OF A PERSON WITH A DISABILITY UNDER FEDERAL CIVIL RIGHTS LAWS [24 CFR Parts 8.3 and 100.201] A person with a disability, as defined under federal civil rights laws, is any person who:
 Has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities of an individual, or
 Has a record of such impairment, or
 Is regarded as having such impairment
The phrase “physical or mental impairment” includes:
 Any physiological disorder or condition, cosmetic or disfigurement, or anatomical loss affecting one or more of the following body systems: neurological; musculoskeletal; special sense organs; respiratory, including speech organs; cardiovascular; reproductive; digestive; genito-urinary; hemic and lymphatic; skin; and endocrine; or
 Any mental or psychological disorder, such as mental retardation, organic brain syndrome, emotional or mental illness, and specific learning disabilities. The term “physical or mental impairment” includes but is not limited to: such diseases and conditions as orthopedic, visual, speech and hearing impairments, cerebral palsy, autism, epilepsy, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, cancer, heart disease, diabetes, mental retardation, emotional illness, drug addiction and alcoholism. “Major life activities” includes, but is not limited to, caring for oneself, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, breathing, learning, and/or working. “Has a record of such impairment” means has a history of, or has been misclassified as having, a mental or physical impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. “Is regarded as having an impairment” is defined as having a physical or mental impairment that does not substantially limit one or more major life activities but is treated by a public entity (such as the PHA) as constituting such a limitation; has none of the impairments defined in this section but is treated by a public entity as having such an impairment; or has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, only as a result of the attitudes of others toward that impairment.

The definition of a person with disabilities does not include:
 Current illegal drug users
 People whose alcohol use interferes with the rights of others  Persons who objectively pose a direct threat or substantial risk of harm to others that cannot be controlled with a reasonable accommodation under the HCV program The above definition of disability determines whether an applicant or participant is entitled to any of the protections of federal disability civil rights laws. Thus, a person who does not meet this disability is not entitled to a reasonable accommodation under federal civil rights and fair housing laws and regulations.

The HUD definition of a person with a disability is much narrower than the civil rights definition of disability. The HUD definition of a person with a disability is used for purposes of receiving the Packet Page 54 of 1050Attachment 2 Page 26 of 487

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 14 Revised August 2, 2022 disabled family preference, the $400 elderly/disabled household deduction, the $480 dependent deduction, the allowance for medical expenses, or the allowance for disability assistance expenses.

The definition of a person with a disability for purposes of granting a reasonable accommodation request is much broader than the HUD definition of disability. Many people will not qualify as a disabled person under the HCV program, yet an accommodation is needed to provide equal opportunity.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 1 Revised August 2, 2022

CHAPTER 3

ELIGIBILITY

INTRODUCTION
The PHA is responsible for ensuring that every individual and family admitted to the HCV program meets all program eligibility requirements. This includes any individual approved to join the family after the family has been admitted to the program. The family must provide any information needed by the PHA to confirm eligibility and determine the level of the family’s assistance.

To be eligible for the HCV program:
 The applicant family must:
- Qualify as a family as defined by HUD and the PHA.
- Have income at or below HUD-specified income limits.
- Qualify on the basis of citizenship or the eligible immigrant status of family members. - Provide social security number information for household members as required. - Consent to the PHA’s collection and use of family information as provided for in PHA-provided consent forms.
- Not currently be receiving a duplicative subsidy.
 The PHA must determine that the current or past behavior of household members does not include activities that are prohibited by HUD or the PHA.

This chapter contains three parts:

Part I: Definitions of Family and Household Members. This part contains HUD and PHA definitions of family and household members and explains initial and ongoing eligibility issues related to these members.

Part II: Basic Eligibility Criteria. This part discusses income eligibility, and rules regarding citizenship, social security numbers, and family consent.

Part III: Denial of Assistance. This part covers factors related to an applicant’s past or current conduct (e.g. criminal activity) that can cause the PHA to deny assistance.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 2 Revised August 2, 2022

PART I: DEFINITIONS OF FAMILY AND HOUSEHOLD MEMBERS
3-I.A. OVERVIEW
Some eligibility criteria and program rules vary depending upon the composition of the family requesting assistance. In addition, some requirements apply to the family as a whole and others apply to individual persons who will live in the assisted unit. This part provides information that is needed to correctly identify family and household members, and to apply HUD's eligibility rules. 3-I.B. FAMILY AND HOUSEHOLD [24 CFR 982.201(c); FR Notice 02/03/12; Notice PIH 2014- 20]
The terms family and household have different meanings in the HCV program.

Family
To be eligible for assistance, an applicant must qualify as a family. Family as defined by HUD includes, but is not limited to the following, regardless actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity, or marital status, a single person, who may be an elderly person, disabled person, near-elderly person, or any other single person; or a group of persons residing together. Such group includes but is not limited to a family with or without children (a child who is temporarily away from the home because of placement in foster care is considered a member of the family), an elderly family, a near-elderly family, a disabled family, a displaced family, or the remaining member of a tenant family. The PHA has the discretion to determine if any other group of persons qualifies as a family.

Gender Identity means actual or perceived gender characteristics.

Sexual orientation means homosexuality, heterosexuality, or bisexuality.

PHA Policy
A family also includes two or more individuals who are not related by blood, marriage, adoption, or other operation of law but who either can demonstrate that they have lived together previously or certify that each individual’s income and other resources will be available to meet the needs of the family.

Each family must identify the individuals to be included in the family at the time of application and must notify the PHA if the family’s composition changes.

Household
Household is a broader term that includes additional people who, with the PHA’s permission, live in an assisted unit, such as live-in aides, foster children, and foster adults.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 3 Revised August 2, 2022 3-I.C. FAMILY BREAKUP AND REMAINING MEMBER OF TENANT FAMILY Family Breakup [24 CFR 982.315; Notice PIH 2017-08]
Except under the following conditions, the PHA has discretion to determine which members of an assisted family continue to receive assistance if the family breaks up:
 If the family breakup results from an occurrence of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking, the PHA must ensure that the victim retains assistance. (For documentation requirements and policies related to domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking, see section 16-IX.D of this plan.)
 In accordance with Notice PIH 2017-08, for HUD–Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD– VASH) vouchers, when the veteran is the perpetrator of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking, the victim must continue to be assisted. Upon termination of the perpetrator’s HUD–VASH voucher, the victim should be given a regular HCV if one is available, and the perpetrator’s HUD–VASH voucher should be used to serve another eligible family. If a regular HCV is not available, the victim will continue to use the HUD–VASH voucher, which must be issued to another eligible family upon the voucher’s turnover
 If a court determines the disposition of property between members of the assisted family, the PHA is bound by the court’s determination of which family members continue to receive assistance.

PHA Policy
When a family on the waiting list breaks up into two otherwise eligible families, only one of the new families may retain the original application date. Other former family members may make a new application with a new application date if the waiting list is open.

If a family breaks up into two otherwise eligible families while receiving assistance, only one of the new families will continue to be assisted.

In the absence of a judicial decision or an agreement among the original family members, the PHA will determine which family will retain their placement on the waiting list or continue to receive assistance. In making its determination, the PHA will take into consideration the following factors: (1) the interest of any minor children, including custody arrangements; (2) the interest of any ill, elderly, or disabled family members; (3) the interest of any family member who is the victim of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking, including a family member who was forced to leave an assisted unit as a result of such actual or threatened abuse; (4) any possible risks to family members as a result of criminal activity; (5) the recommendations of social service professionals; and (6) which family member(s) remained in the unit or vacated the unit, and which member(s) were listed on the original application for assistance.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 4 Revised August 2, 2022 Remaining Member of a Tenant Family [24 CFR 5.403]
The HUD definition of family includes the remaining member of a tenant family, which is a member of an assisted family who remains in the unit when other members of the family have left the unit.

Household members such as live-in aides, foster children, and foster adults do not qualify as remaining members of a family.

If dependents are the only “remaining members of a tenant family” and there is no family member able to assume the responsibilities of the head of household, see Chapter 6, Section 6-I.B, for the policy on “Caretakers for a Child.”
PHA Policy
PHA-approved spouse/partner or co-head will “inherit” the voucher in the event of the death of the head of household if the spouse/partner has been part of the assisted family for the past 12 months or has been part of the family throughout the term of assistance.

If the head of household passes away and there is no spouse/partner/co-head, an approved adult family member may retain the voucher if the family member has been a part of the assisted family for the past 12 months or has continually been part of the family throughout the term of assistance. 3-I.D. HEAD OF HOUSEHOLD [24 CFR 5.504(b)]
Head of household means the adult member of the family who is considered the head for purposes of determining income eligibility and rent. The head of household is responsible for ensuring that the family fulfills all of its responsibilities under the program, alone or in conjunction with a cohead or spouse.

PHA Policy
The family may designate any qualified family member as the head of household.

The head of household must have the legal capacity to enter into a lease under state and local law. A minor who is emancipated under state law may be designated as head of household. 3-I.E. SPOUSE, COHEAD, AND OTHER ADULT
A family may have a spouse or cohead, but not both [HUD-50058 IB, p. 13].

Spouse means the marriage partner of the head of household.

PHA Policy
A marriage partner includes the partner in a "common law" marriage as defined in state law.

The term “spouse” does not apply to friends or roommates who are not significant others/partners. A minor who is emancipated under state law may be designated as a spouse.

A cohead is an individual in the household who is equally responsible with the head of household for ensuring that the famil y fulfills all of its responsibilities under the program, but who is not a spouse. A family can have only one cohead.

PHA Policy
Minors who are emancipated under state law may be designated as a cohead.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 5 Revised August 2, 2022 Other adult means a family member, other than the head, spouse, or cohead, who is 18 years of age or older. Foster adults and live-in aides are not considered other adults.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 6 Revised August 2, 2022 3-I.F. DEPENDENT [24 CFR 5.603]
A dependent is a family member who is under 18 years of age or a person of any age who is a person with a disability or a full-time student, except that the following persons can never be dependents: the head of household, spouse, cohead, foster children/adults and live-in aides. Identifying each dependent in the family is important because each dependent qualifies the family for a dependent allowance as described in Chapter 6.

Joint Custody of Dependents

PHA Policy
Dependents that are subject to a joint custody arrangement will be considered a member of the family, if they live with the applicant or participant family 51 percent or more of the time, which is defined as 183 days of the year or more.

When more than one applicant or participant family is claiming the same dependents as family members, the family with primary custody at the time of the initial examination or reexamination will be able to claim the dependents. If there is a dispute about which family should claim them, the PHA will make the determination based on available documents such as court orders, school records, or an IRS return showing which family has claimed the child for income tax purposes. 3-I.G. FULL-TIME STUDENT [24 CFR 5.603; HCV GB, p. 5-29] A full-time student (FTS) is a person who is attending school or vocational training on a full-time basis.

The time commitment or subject load that is needed to be full-time is defined by the educational institution.

Identifying each FTS is important because: (1) each family member that is an FTS, other than the head, spouse, or cohead, qualifies the family for a dependent allowance, and (2) the earned income of such an FTS is treated differently from the income of other family members. 3-I.H. ELDERLY AND NEAR-ELDERLY PERSONS, AND ELDERLY FAMILY [24 CFR 5.100 and 5.403, FR Notice 02/03/12]
Elderly Persons
An elderly person is a person who is at least 62 years of age.

Near-Elderly Persons
A near-elderly person is a person who is 50-61 years of age.

Elderly Family
An elderly family is one in which the head, spouse, cohead, or sole member is an elderly person.

Identifying elderly families is important because elderly families qualify for the elderly family allowance as described in Chapter 6.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 7 Revised August 2, 2022 3-I.I. PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES AND DISABLED FAMILY [24 CFR 5.403, FR Notice 02/03/12]
Persons with Disabilities
Under the HCV program, special rules apply to persons with disabilities and to any family whose head, spouse, or cohead is a person with disabilities. The technical definitions of individual with handicaps and persons with disabilities are provided in Exhibit 3-1 at the end of this chapter. These definitions are used for a number of purposes including ensuring that persons with disabilities are not discriminated against based upon disability.

As discussed in Chapter 2, the PHA must make all aspects of the HCV program accessible to persons with disabilities and consider reasonable accommodations requested based upon a person’s disability.

Disabled Family
A disabled family is one in which the head, spouse, or cohead is a person with disabilities. Identifying disabled families is important because these families qualify for the disabled family allowance as described in Chapter 6.

Even though persons with drug or alcohol dependencies are considered persons with disabilities, this does not prevent the PHA from denying assistance for reasons related to alcohol and drug abuse in accordance with the policies found in Part III of this chapter, or from terminating assistance in accordance with the policies in Chapter 12.
3-I.J. GUESTS [24 CFR 5.100]
A guest is a person temporarily staying in the unit with the consent of a member of the household who has expressed or implied authority to so consent.

PHA Policy
A guest can remain in the assisted unit no longer than 14 consecutive days or a total of 30 cumulative calendar days during any 12-month period. Students who are living outside of the assisted unit for the purpose of attending school are exempt from the guest policy.

Children who are subject to a joint custody arrangement or for whom a family has visitation privileges, that are not included as a family member because they live outside of the assisted household more than 50 percent of the time, are not subject to the time limitations of guests as described above.

A family may request an exception to this policy for valid reasons (e.g., care of a relative recovering from a medical procedure is expected to last 40 consecutive days). An exception will not be made unless the family can identify and provide documentation of the residence to which the guest will return.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 8 Revised August 2, 2022 3-I.K. FOSTER CHILDREN AND FOSTER ADULTS
Foster adults are usually persons with disabilities, unrelated to the tenant family, who are unable to live alone [24 CFR 5.609].

The term foster child is not specifically defined by the regulations.

Foster children and foster adults who are living with an applicant or who have been approved by the PHA to live with a participant family are considered household members but not family members. The income of foster children/adults is not counted in family annual income, and foster children/adults do not qualify for a dependent deduction [24 CFR 5.603; HUD-50058 IB, p. 13].

PHA Policy
A foster child is a child that is in the legal guardianship or custody of a state, county, or private adoption or foster care agency, yet is cared for by foster parents in their own homes, under some kind of short-term or long-term foster care arrangement with the custodial agency.

A foster child or foster adult may be allowed to reside in the unit if their presence would not result in a violation of HQS space standards according to 24 CFR 982.401.

Children that are temporarily absent from the home as a result of placement in foster care are discussed in Section 3-I.L.
3-I.L. ABSENT FAMILY MEMBERS
Individuals may be absent from the family, either temporarily or permanently, for a variety of reasons including educational activities, placement in foster care, employment, illness, incarceration, and court order.

Definitions of Temporarily and Permanently Absent
PHA Policy
Generally, an individual who is or is expected to be absent from the assisted unit for 60 consecutive days or less is considered temporarily absent and continues to be considered a family member. Generally, an individual who is or is expected to be absent from the assisted unit for more than 60 consecutive days is considered permanently absent and no longer a family member.

Exceptions to this general policy are discussed below.

Absent Students
PHA Policy
When someone who has been considered a family member attends school and is living outside of the assisted unit, the person will no longer be considered a family member and will be removed from the assisted voucher.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 9 Revised August 2, 2022 Absences Due to Placement in Foster Care [24 CFR 5.403] Children temporarily absent from the home as a result of placement in foster care are considered members of the family.

PHA Policy
If a child has been placed in foster care, the PHA will consider the child to be permanently removed after six months unless the family can provide a Family Reunification Plan detailing when the child will be returned to the home.

Absent Head, Spouse, or Cohead
PHA Policy
An employed head, spouse, or cohead absent from the unit more than 180 consecutive days due to employment will continue to be considered a family member.

Family Members Permanently Confined for Medical Reasons [HCV GB, p. 5-22] If a family member is confined to a nursing home or hospital on a permanent basis, that person is no longer considered a family member and the income of that person is not counted [HCV GB, p. 5-22].

PHA Policy
An individual confined to a nursing home or hospital on a permanent basis is not considered a family member.

The PHA will request verification of the family member’s permanent absence from a responsible medical professional. If the responsible medical professional cannot provide a determination, the person will be considered temporarily absent up to 180 days. After 180 days, the family member will be considered permanently absent. If the family certifies that the family member is confined on a permanent basis, they may present, and the PHA will consider, any additional documentation or evidence.

Return of Permanently Absent Family Members
PHA Policy
The PHA will not allow for the return of any adult family members that the PHA previously determined to be permanently absent.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 10 Revised August 2, 2022 3-I.M. LIVE-IN AIDE
A live-in aide is a person who resides with one or more elderly persons, or near-elderly persons, or persons with disabilities, and who: (1) is determined to be essential to the care and well-being of the persons, (2) is not obligated for the support of the persons, and (3) would not be living in the unit except to provide the necessary supportive services [24 CFR 5.403].

The PHA must approve a live-in aide if needed as a reasonable accommodation in accordance with 24 CFR 8, to make the program accessible to and usable by the family member with disabilities.

The income of a live-in aide is not counted in the calculation of annual income for the family [24 CFR

5.609(b)]. Relatives may be approved as live-in aides if they meet all of the criteria defining a live-in aide. Because live-in aides are not family members, a relative who serves as a live-in aide would not be considered a remaining member of a tenant family.

PHA Policy
A family’s request for a live-in aide must be made in writing. Written verification will be required from a reliable, knowledgeable professional, such as a doctor, social worker, or case worker, that the live-in aide is essential for the care and well-being of the elderly, near elderly, or disabled family member. For continued approval, the family must submit a new, written request- subject to PHA verification-at each annual reexamination.

In addition, the family and live-in aide will be required to submit a certification stating that the live-in aide is (1) not obligated for the support of the person(s) needing the care, and (2) would not be living in the unit except to provide the necessary supportive services.

The PHA will not approve a particular person as a live-in aide, and may withdraw such approval if [24 CFR 982.316(b)]:

The person commits fraud, bribery or any other corrupt or criminal act in connection with any federal housing program;
The person commits drug-related criminal activity or violent criminal activity; or The person currently owes rent or other amounts to the PHA or to another PHA in connection with Section 8 or public housing assistance under the 1937 Act.

The PHA will notify the family of its decision in writing within 10 business days of receiving a request for a live-in aide, including all required documentation related to the request.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 11 Revised August 2, 2022 PART II: BASIC ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
3-II.A. INCOME ELIGIBILITY AND TARGETING
Income Limits
HUD establishes income limits for all areas of the country and publishes them annually in the Federal Register. They are based upon estimates of median family income with adjustments for family size. The income limits are used to determine eligibility for the program and for income targeting purposes as discussed in this section.

Definitions of the Income Limits [24 CFR 5.603(b)]
Low-income family. A family whose annual income does not exceed 80 percent of the median income for the area, adjusted for family size.

Very low-income family. A family whose annual income does not exceed 50 percent of the median income for the area, adjusted for family size.

Extremely low-income family. A family whose annual income does not exceed the federal poverty level or 30 percent of the median income for the area, whichever number is higher.

Area median income is determined by HUD, with adjustments for smaller and larger families. HUD may establish income ceilings higher or lower than 30, 50, or 80 percent of the median income for an area if HUD finds that such variations are necessary because of unusually high or low family incomes.

Using Income Limits for Eligibility [24 CFR 982.201]
Income limits are used for eligibility onl y at admission. Income eligibility is determined b y comparing the annual income of an applicant to the applicable income limit for their family size. In order to be income eligible, an applicant family must be one of the following:
 A very low-income family
 A low-income family that has been "continuously assisted" under the 1937 Housing Act. A family is considered to be continuously assisted if the family is already receiving assistance under any 1937 Housing Act program at the time the family is admitted to the HCV program [24 CFR 982.4]

PHA Policy
The PHA will consider a family to be continuously assisted if the family was leasing a unit under any 1937 Housing Act program at the time, they were selected from the PHA’s waiting list.  A low-income family that qualifies for voucher assistance as a non-purchasing household living in HOPE 1 (public housing homeownership), HOPE 2 (multifamily housing homeownership) developments, or other HUD-assisted multifamily homeownership programs covered by 24 CFR 248.173
 A low-income or moderate-income family that is displaced as a result of the prepayment of a mortgage or voluntary termination of a mortgage insurance contract on eligible low-income housing as defined in 24 CFR 248.101
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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 12 Revised August 2, 2022 HUD permits the PHA to establish additional categories of low-income families that may be determined eligible. The additional categories must be consistent with the PHA plan and the consolidated plans for local governments within the PHA’s jurisdiction.

PHA Policy
The PHA has not established any additional categories of eligible low-income families.

Using Income Limits for Targeting [24 CFR 982.201]
At least 75 percent of the families admitted to the PHA's program during a PHA fiscal year must be extremely low-income families. HUD may approve exceptions to this requirement if the PHA demonstrates that it has made all required efforts but has been unable to attract an adequate number of qualified extremely low-income families.

Families continuously assisted under the 1937 Housing Act and families living in eligible low-income housing that are displaced as a result of prepayment of a mortgage or voluntary termination of a mortgage insurance contract are not counted for income targeting purposes. 3-II.B. CITIZENSHIP OR ELIGIBLE IMMIGRATION STATUS [24 CFR 5, Subpart E] Housing assistance is available only to individuals who are U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals (herein referred to as citizens and nationals), or noncitizens that have eligible immigration status. At least one family member must be a citizen, national, or noncitizen with eligible immigration status in order for the family to qualify for any level of assistance.

All applicant families must be notified of the requirement to submit evidence of their citizenship status when they apply. Where feasible, and in accordance with the PHA’s Limited English Proficiency Plan, the notice must be in a language that is understood by the individual if the individual is not proficient in English.

Declaration [24 CFR 5.508]
HUD requires each family member to declare whether the individual is a citizen, a national, or an eligible noncitizen, except those members who elect not to contend that they have eligible immigration status. Those who elect not to contend their status are considered to be ineligible noncitizens. For citizens, nationals, and eligible noncitizens the declaration must be signed personally by the head, spouse, cohead, and any other family member 18 or older, and by a parent or guardian for minors. The family must identify in writing any family members who elect not to contend their immigration status (see Ineligible Noncitizens below). No declaration is required for live-in aides, foster children, or foster adults.

U.S. Citizens and Nationals
In general, citizens and nationals are required to submit only a signed declaration as verification of their status. However, HUD regulations permit the PHA to request additional documentation of their status, such as a passport.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 13 Revised August 2, 2022 PHA Policy
Family members who declare citizenship or national status will not be required to provide additional documentation unless the PHA receives information indicating that an individual’s declaration may not be accurate.

Eligible Noncitizens
In addition to providing a signed declaration, those declaring eligible noncitizen status must sign a verification consent form and cooperate with PHA efforts to verify their immigration status as described in Chapter 7. The documentation required for establishing eligible noncitizen status varies depending upon factors such as the date the person entered the U.S., the conditions under which eligible immigration status has been granted, the person’s age, and the date on which the family began receiving HUD-funded assistance.

Lawful residents of the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, and Palau, together known as the Freely Associated States, or FAS, are eligible for housing assistance under section 141 of the Compacts of Free Association between the U.S. Government and the Governments of the FAS [Public Law 106-504].

Ineligible Noncitizens
Those noncitizens who do not wish to contend their immigration status are required to have their names listed on a noncontending family members listing, signed by the head, spouse, or cohead (regardless of citizenship status), indicating their ineligible immigration status. The PHA is not required to verify a family member’s ineligible status and is not required to report an individual’s unlawful presence in the U.S. to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Providing housing assistance to noncitizen students is prohibited [24 CFR 5.522]. This prohibition extends to the noncitizen spouse of a noncitizen student as well as to minor children who accompany or follow to join the noncitizen student. Such prohibition does not extend to the citizen spouse of a noncitizen student or to the children of the citizen spouse and noncitizen student. Such a family is eligible for prorated assistance as a mixed family.

Mixed Families
A family is eligible for assistance as long as at least one member is a citizen, national, or eligible noncitizen. Families that include eligible and ineligible individuals are considered mixed families. Such families will be given notice that their assistance will be prorated, and that they may request a hearing if they contest this determination. See Chapter 6 for a discussion of how rents are prorated, and Chapter 16 for a discussion of informal hearing procedures.

Ineligible Families [24 CFR 5.514(d), (e), and (f)]
A PHA may elect to provide assistance to a family before the verification of the eligibility of the individual or one family member [24 CFR 5.512(b)]. Otherwise, no individual or family may be assisted prior to the affirmative establishment by the PHA that the individual or at least one family member is eligible. Verification of eligibility for this purpose occurs when the individual or family members have submitted documentation to the PHA in accordance with program requirements [24 CFR 5.512(a)].

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 14 Revised August 2, 2022 PHA Policy
The PHA will not provide assistance to a family before the verification of at least one family member.

When a PHA determines that an applicant family does not include any citizens, nationals, or eligible noncitizens, following the verification process, the family will be sent a written notice within 10 business days of the determination.

The notice will explain the reasons for the denial of assistance, that the family may be eligible for proration of assistance and will advise the family of its right to request an appeal to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), or to request an informal hearing with the PHA. The informal hearing with the PHA may be requested in lieu of the USCIS appeal, or at the conclusion of the USCIS appeal process. The notice must also inform the applicant family that assistance may not be delayed until the conclusion of the USCIS appeal process, but that it may be delayed pending the completion of the informal hearing process.

Informal hearing procedures are contained in Chapter 16.

Timeframe for Determination of Citizenship Status [24 CFR 5.508(g)] For new occupants joining the assisted family, the PHA must verify status at the first interim or regular reexamination following the person’s occupancy, whichever comes first.

If an individual qualifies for a time extension for the submission of required documents, the PHA must grant such an extension for no more than 30 days [24 CFR 5.508(h)].

Each family member is required to submit evidence of eligible status only one time during continuous occupancy.

PHA Policy
The PHA will verify the citizenship status of applicants at the time other eligibility factors are determined.
3-II.C. SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBERS [24 CFR 5.216 and 5.218, Notice PIH 2018-24] The applicant and all members of the applicant’s household must disclose the complete and accurate social security number (SSN) assigned to each household member, and the documentation necessary to verify each SSN. If a child under age 6 has been added to an applicant family within 6 months prior to voucher issuance, an otherwise eligible family may be admitted to the program and must disclose and document the child’s SSN within 90 days of the effective date of the initial HAP contract. A detailed discussion of acceptable documentation is provided in Chapter 7.

Note: These requirements do not apply to noncitizens who do not contend eligible immigration status.

In addition, each participant who has not previously disclosed an SSN, has previously disclosed an SSN that HUD or the SSA determined was invalid, or has been issued a new SSN must submit their complete and accurate SSN and the documentation required to verify the SSN at the time of the next interim or annual reexamination or recertification. Participants age 62 or older as of January 31, 2010, whose Packet Page 69 of 1050Attachment 2 Page 41 of 487

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 15 Revised August 2, 2022 determination of eligibility was begun before January 31, 2010, are exempt from this requirement and remain exempt even if they move to a new assisted unit.

The PHA must deny assistance to an applicant family if they do not meet the SSN disclosure and documentation requirements contained in 24 CFR 5.216.
3-II.D. FAMILY CONSENT TO RELEASE OF INFORMATION [24 CFR 5.230; HCV GB, p. 5- 13]
HUD requires each adult family member, and the head of household, spouse, or cohead, regardless of age, to sign form HUD-9886, Authorization for the Release of Information/Privacy Act Notice, the form HUD-52675 Debts Owed to Public Housing Agencies and Terminations, and other consent forms as needed to collect information relevant to the family’s eligibility and level of assistance. Chapter 7 provides detailed information concerning the consent forms and verification requirements.

The PHA must deny admission to the program if any member of the applicant family fails to sign and submit the consent forms for obtaining information in accordance with 24 CFR 5, Subparts B and F [24 CFR 982.552(b)(3)].

3-II.E. STUDENTS ENROLLED IN INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER EDUCATION [24 CFR 5.612, FR Notice 4/10/06, FR Notice 9/21/16]
Section 327 of Public Law 109-115 and the implementing regulation at 24 CFR 5.612 established new restrictions on the eligibility of certain students (both part- and full-time) who are enrolled in institutions of higher education.

If a student enrolled at an institution of higher education is under the age of 24, is not a veteran, is not married, does not have a dependent child, and is not a person with disabilities receiving HCV assistance as of November 30, 2005, the student’s eligibility must be examined along with the income eligibility of the student’s parents. In these cases, both the student and the student’s parents must be income eligible for the student to receive HCV assistance. If, however, a student in these circumstances is determined independent from his/her parents in accordance with PHA policy, the income of the student’s parents will not be considered in determining the student’s eligibility.

The new law does not apply to students who reside with parents who are applying to receive HCV assistance. It is limited to students who are seeking assistance on their own, separately from their parents.

Definitions
In determining whether and how the new eligibility restrictions apply to a student, the PHA will rely on the following definitions [FR Notice 4/10/06, FR Notice 9/21/16].

Dependent Child
In the context of the student eligibility restrictions, dependent child means a dependent child of a student enrolled in an institution of higher education. The dependent child must also meet the definition of dependent in 24 CFR 5.603, which states that the dependent must be a member of the assisted family, other than the head of household or spouse, who is under 18 years of age, or is a person with a disability, or is a full-time student. Foster children and foster adults are not considered dependents.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 16 Revised August 2, 2022 Independent Student

PHA Policy
The PHA will consider a student “independent” from his or her parents and the parents’ income will not be considered when determining the student’s eligibility if the following four criteria are all met:
 The individual is of legal contract age under state law.  The individual has established a household separate from his/her parents for at least one year prior to application for occupancy or the individual meets the U.S. Department of Education’s definition of independent student.
o To be considered an independent student according to the Department of Education, a student must meet one or more of the following criteria:
 The individual is at least 24 years old by December 31 of the award year for which aid is sought
 The individual is an orphan, in foster care, or a ward of the court, or was an orphan, in foster care, or ward of the court at any time when the individual was 13 years of age or older
 The individual is, or was immediately prior to attaining the age of majority, an emancipated minor or in legal guardianship as determined by a court of competent jurisdiction in the individual’s state of legal residence  The individual is a veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces or is currently serving on active duty in the Armed Forces for other than training purposes  The individual is a graduate or professional student
 The individual is married
 The individual has one or more legal dependents other than a spouse (for example, dependent children or an elderly dependent parent)
 The individual has been verified during the school year in which the application is submitted as either an unaccompanied youth who is a homeless child or youth, or as unaccompanied, at risk of homelessness, and self-supporting by:
o A local educational agency homeless liaison
o The director of a program funded under subtitle B of title IV of the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act or a designee of the director o A financial aid administrator
 The individual is a student for whom a financial aid administrator makes a documented determination of independence by reason of other unusual circumstances  The individual was not claimed as a dependent by his/her parents pursuant to IRS regulations, as demonstrated on the parents’ most recent tax forms.
 The individual provides a certification of the amount of financial assistance that will be provided by his/her parents. This certification must be signed by the individual providing the support and must be submitted even if no assistance is being provided.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 17 Revised August 2, 2022 If the PHA determines that an individual meets the definition of a vulnerable youth such a determination is all that is necessary to determine that the person is an independent student for the purposes of using only the student’s income for determining eligibility for assistance.

The PHA will verify that a student meets the above criteria in accordance with the policies in Section 7-II.E.

Institution of Higher Education
The PHA will use the statutory definition under section 102 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 to determine whether a student is attending an institution of higher education (see Exhibit 3-2).

Parents
PHA Policy
For purposes of student eligibility restrictions, the definition of parents includes biological or adoptive parents, stepparents (as long as they are currently married to the biological or adoptive parent), and guardians (e.g., grandparents, aunt/uncle, godparents, etc).

Person with Disabilities
The PHA will use the statutory definition under section 3(b)(3)(E) of the 1937 Act to determine whether a student is a person with disabilities (see Exhibit 3-1).

Veteran
PHA Policy
A veteran is a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service and who was discharged or released from such service under conditions other than dishonorable.

Vulnerable Youth
PHA Policy
A vulnerable youth is an individual who meets the U.S. Department of Education’s definition of independent student in paragraphs (b), (c), or (h), as adopted in Section II of FR Notice 9/21/16:

The individual is an orphan, in foster care, or a ward of the court, or was an orphan, in foster care, or ward of the court at any time when the individual was 13 years of age or older
The individual is, or was immediately prior to attaining the age of majority, an emancipated minor or in legal guardianship as determined by a court of competent jurisdiction in the individual’s state of legal residence The individual has been verified during the school year in which the application is submitted as either an unaccompanied youth who is a homeless child or youth, or as unaccompanied, at risk of homelessness, and self-supporting by:

A local educational agency homeless liaison
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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 18 Revised August 2, 2022 The director of a program funded under subtitle B of title IV of the McKinney- Vento Homeless Assistance Act or a designee of the director A financial aid administrator
Determining Student Eligibility
If a student is applying for assistance on his/her own, apart from his/her parents, the PHA must determine whether the student is subject to the eligibility restrictions contained in 24 CFR 5.612. If the student is subject to those restrictions, the PHA must ensure that: (1) the student is individually eligible for the program, (2) either the student is independent from his/her parents or the student’s parents are income eligible for the program, and (3) the “family” with which the student is applying is collectively eligible for the program.

PHA Policy
For any student who is subject to the 5.612 restrictions, the PHA will:

Follow its usual policies in determining whether the student individually and the student’s “family” collectively are eligible for the program Determine whether the student is independent from his/her parents in accordance with the definition of independent student in this section
Follow the policies below, if applicable, in determining whether the student’s parents are income eligible for the program
If the PHA determines that the student, the student’s parents (if applicable), or the student’s “family” is not eligible, the PHA will send a notice of denial in accordance with the policies in Section 3-III.F, and the applicant family will have the right to request an informal review in accordance with the policies in Section 16-III.B.

Determining Parental Income Eligibility
PHA Policy
For any student who is subject to the 5.612 restrictions and who does not satisfy the definition of independent student in this section, the PHA will determine the income eligibility of the student’s parents as follows:

If the student’s parents are married and living together, the PHA will obtain a joint income declaration and certification of joint income from the parents.

If the student’s parent is widowed or single, the PHA will obtain an income declaration and certification of income from that parent.

If the student’s parents are divorced or separated, the PHA will obtain an income declaration and certification of income from each parent.

If the student has been living with one of his/her parents and has not had contact with or does not know where to contact his/her other parent, the PHA will require the student to Packet Page 73 of 1050Attachment 2 Page 45 of 487

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 19 Revised August 2, 2022 submit a certification under penalty of perjury describing the circumstances and stating that the student does not receive financial assistance from the other parent. The PHA will then obtain an income declaration and certification of income from the parent with whom the student has been living or had contact.

In determining the income eligibility of the student’s parents, the PHA will use the income limits for the jurisdiction in which the parents live.
3-II.F. EIV SYSTEM SEARCHES [Notice PIH 2018-18; EIV FAQs; EIV System Training 9/30/20]
Existing Tenant Search
Prior to admission to the program, the PHA must search for all household members using the EIV Existing Tenant Search module. The PHA must review the reports for any SSA matches involving another PHA or a multifamily entity and follow up on any issues identified. The PHA must provide the family with a copy of the Existing Tenant Search results if requested. At no time may any family member receive duplicative assistance.

If the tenant is a new admission to the PHA, and a match is identified at a multifamily property, the PHA must report the program admission date to the multifamily property and document the notification in the tenant file. The family must provide documentation of move-out from the assisted unit, as applicable.

PHA Policy
The PHA will contact the PHA or owner identified in the report to confirm that the family has moved out of the unit and obtain documentation of current tenancy status, including a form HUD-50058 or 50059, as applicable, showing an end of participation. The PHA will only approve assistance contingent upon the move-out from the currently occupied assisted unit.

Debts Owed to PHAs and Terminations
All adult household members must sign the form HUD-52675 Debts Owed to Public Housing and Terminations. Prior to admission to the program, the PHA must search for each adult family member in the Debts Owed to PHAs and Terminations module.

If a current or former tenant disputes the information in the module, the tenant should contact the PHA directly in writing to dispute the information and provide any documentation that supports the dispute. If the PHA determines that the disputed information is incorrect, the PHA will update or delete the record from EIV. Former tenants may dispute debt and termination information for a period of up to three years from the end of participation date in the program.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 20 Revised August 2, 2022 PHA Policy
The PHA will require each adult household member to sign the form HUD-52675 once at the eligibility determination. Any new members added to the household after admission will be required to sign the form HUD-52675 prior to being added to the household.

The PHA will search the Debts Owed to PHAs and Terminations module as part of the eligibility determination for new households and as part of the screening process for any household members added after the household is admitted to the program. If any information on debts or terminations is returned by the search, the PHA will determine if this information warrants a denial in accordance with the policies in Part III of this chapter.

Income and IVT Reports
For each new admission, the PHA is required to review the EIV Income and IVT Reports to confirm and validate family reported income within 120 days of the IMS/PIC submission date of the new admission.

The PHA must print and maintain copies of the EIV Income and IVT reports in the tenant file and resolve any discrepancies with the family within 60 days of the EIV Income or IVT report dates.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 21 Revised August 2, 2022 PART III: DENIAL OF ASSISTANCE
3-III.A. OVERVIEW
A family that does not meet the eligibility criteria discussed in Parts I and II, must be denied assistance.

In this section we will discuss other situations and circumstances in which denial of assistance is mandatory for the PHA, and those in which denial of assistance is optional for the PHA.

While the regulations state that the PHA must prohibit admission for certain types of criminal activity and give the PHA the option to deny for other types of previous criminal history, more recent HUD rules and OGC guidance must also be taken into consideration when determining whether a particular individual’s criminal history merits denial of admission.

When considering any denial of admission, PHAs may not use arrest records as the basis for the denial.

Further, HUD does not require the adoption of “One Strike” policies and reminds PHAs of their obligation to safeguard the due process rights of applicants and tenants [Notice PIH 2015-19].

HUD’s Office of General Counsel issued a memo on April 4, 2016, regarding the application of Fair Housing Act standards to the use of criminal records. This memo states that a PHA violates the Fair Housing Act when their policy or practice has an unjustified discriminatory effect, even when the PHA had no intention to discriminate. Where a policy or practice that restricts admission based on criminal history has a disparate impact on a particular race, national origin, or other protected class, that policy or practice is in violation of the Fair Housing Act if it is not necessary to serve a substantial, legitimate, nondiscriminatory interest of the PHA, or if that interest could be served by another practice that has a less discriminatory effect [OGC Memo 4/4/16].

PHAs who impose blanket prohibitions on any person with any conviction record, no matter when the conviction occurred, what the underlying conduct entailed, or what the convicted person has done since then will be unable to show that such policy or practice is necessary to achieve a substantial, legitimate, nondiscriminatory interest. Even a PHA with a more tailored policy or practice that excludes individuals with only certain types of convictions must still prove that its policy is necessary. To do this, the PHA must show that its policy accurately distinguishes between criminal conduct that indicates a demonstrable risk to resident safety and property and criminal conduct that does not.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 22 Revised August 2, 2022 Forms of Denial [24 CFR 982.552(a)(2); HCV GB, p. 5-35] Denial of assistance includes any of the following:
 Not placing the family's name on the waiting list
 Denying or withdrawing a voucher
 Not approving a request for tenancy or refusing to enter into a HAP contract  Refusing to process a request for or to provide assistance under portability procedures

Prohibited Reasons for Denial of Program Assistance [24 CFR 982.202(b), 24 CFR 5.2005(b)]
HUD rules prohibit denial of program assistance to the program based on any of the following criteria:
 Age, disability, race, color, religion, sex, or national origin (See Chapter 2 for additional information about fair housing and equal opportunity requirements.)  Where a family lives prior to admission to the program  Where the family will live with assistance under the program. Although eligibility is not affected by where the family will live, there may be restrictions on the family’s ability to move outside the PHA’s jurisdiction under portability. (See Chapter 10.)  Whether members of the family are unwed parents, recipients of public assistance, or children born out of wedlock
 Whether the family includes children
 Whether a family decides to participate in a family self-sufficiency program  Whether or not a qualified applicant is or has been a victim of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking if the applicant is otherwise qualified for assistance (See section 3-III.G.)
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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 23 Revised August 2, 2022 3-III.B. MANDATORY DENIAL OF ASSISTANCE [24 CFR 982.553(a)] HUD requires the PHA to deny assistance in the following cases:
 Any member of the household has been evicted from federally assisted housing in the last three years for drug-related criminal activity. HUD permits, but does not require, the PHA to admit an otherwise-eligible family if the household member has completed a PHA-approved drug rehabilitation program or the circumstances which led to eviction no longer exist (e.g., the person involved in the criminal activity no longer lives in the household).

PHA Policy
The PHA will admit an otherwise-eligible family who was evicted from federally assisted housing within the past three years for drug-related criminal activity, if the PHA is able to verify that the household member who engaged in the criminal activity has completed a supervised drug rehabilitation program approved by the PHA, or the person who committed the crime, is no longer living in the household.
 The PHA determines that any household member is currently engaged in the use of illegal drugs.

PHA Policy
Currently engaged in is defined as any use of illegal drugs during the previous three months.  The PHA has reasonable cause to believe that any household member’s current use or pattern of use of illegal drugs, or current abuse or pattern of abuse of alcohol, may threaten the health, safety, or right to peaceful enjoyment of the premises by other residents.

PHA Policy
In determining reasonable cause, the PHA will consider all credible evidence, including but not limited to, any record of convictions, arrests, or evictions of household members related to the use of illegal drugs or the abuse of alcohol. A conviction will be given more weight than an arrest. A record or records of arrest will not be used as the sole basis of determining reasonable cause. The PHA will also consider evidence from treatment providers or community-based organizations providing services to household members.
 Any household member has ever been convicted of drug-related criminal activity for the production or manufacture of methamphetamine on the premises of federally assisted housing  Any household member is subject to a lifetime registration requirement under a state sex offender registration program
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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 24 Revised August 2, 2022 3-III.C. OTHER PERMITTED REASONS FOR DENIAL OF ASSISTANCE HUD permits, but does not require, the PHA to deny assistance for the reasons discussed in this section.

Criminal Activity [24 CFR 982.553]
HUD permits, but does not require, the PHA to deny assistance if the PHA determines that any household member is currently engaged in or has engaged in during a reasonable time before the family would receive assistance, certain types of criminal activity.

PHA Policy
If any household member is currently engaged in or has engaged in any of the following criminal activities, within the past three years, the family will be denied assistance.

Drug-related criminal activity, defined by HUD as the illegal manufacture, sale, distribution, or use of a drug, or the possession of a drug with intent to manufacture, sell, distribute, or use the drug [24 CFR 5.100].

Violent criminal activity, defined by HUD as any criminal activity that has as one of its elements the use, attempted use, or threatened use of physical force substantial enough to cause, or be reasonably likely to cause, serious bodily injury or property damage [24 CFR 5.100].

Criminal activity that may threaten the health, safety, or right to peaceful enjoyment of the premises by other residents or persons residing in the immediate vicinity; or Criminal activity that may threaten the health or safety of property owners, management staff, and persons performing contract administration functions or other responsibilities on behalf of the PHA (including a PHA employee or a PHA contractor, subcontractor, or agent).

Immediate vicinity means within a three-block radius of the premises.

Evidence of such criminal activity includes, but is not limited to:

Any conviction for drug-related or violent criminal activity within the past three years.

Records of arrests for drug-related or violent criminal activity within the past three years, although a record or records of arrest will not be used as the sole basis for the denial or proof that the applicant engaged in disqualifying criminal activity.

A conviction for drug-related or violent criminal activity will be given more weight than an arrest for such activity.

In making its decision to deny assistance, the PHA will consider the factors discussed in Section 3-III.E. Upon consideration of such factors, the PHA may, on a case-by-case basis, decide not to deny assistance.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 25 Revised August 2, 2022 Previous Behavior in Assisted Housing [24 CFR 982.552(c)] HUD authorizes the PHA to deny assistance based on the family’s previous behavior in assisted housing.

Per the alternative requirements listed in the Federal Register notice dated December 29, 2014, PHAs are no longer permitted to deny assistance to a family because the family previously failed to meet its obligations under the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program [FR Notice 12/29/14].

PHA Policy
The PHA will deny assistance to an applicant family if:
 The family does not provide information that the PHA or HUD determines is necessary in the administration of the program.
 The family does not provide complete and true information to the PHA.  Any family member has been evicted from federally assisted housing in the last five years.
 Any family member has committed fraud, bribery, or any other corrupt or criminal act in connection with any federal housing program.
 Any family member has committed fraud, bribery, or any other corrupt or criminal act in connection with any other state, local, or federal assistance program.  The family owes rent or other amounts to any PHA in connection with Section 8 or other public housing assistance under the 1937 Act unless the family repays the full amount of the debt prior to being selected from the waiting list.  If the family has not reimbursed any PHA for amounts the PHA paid to an owner under a HAP contract for rent, damages to the unit, or other amounts owed by the family under the lease, unless the family repays the full amount of the debt prior to being selected from the waiting list.
 The family has breached the terms of a repayment agreement entered into with the PHA, unless the family repays the full amount of the debt covered in the repayment agreement prior to being selected from the waiting list.  A family member has engaged in or threatened violent or abusive behavior toward PHA personnel.
o Abusive or violent behavior towards PHA personnel includes verbal as well as physical abuse or violence. Use of racial epithets, or other language, written or oral, that is customarily used to intimidate may be considered abusive or violent behavior.
o Threatening refers to oral or written threats or physical gestures that communicate intent to abuse or commit violence.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 26 Revised August 2, 2022 In making its decision to deny assistance, the PHA will consider the factors discussed in Section 3-III.E. Upon consideration of such factors, the PHA may, on a case-by-case basis, decide not to deny assistance.
3-III.D. SCREENING
Screening for Eligibility
PHAs are authorized to obtain criminal conviction records from law enforcement agencies to screen applicants for admission to the HCV program. This authority assists the PHA in complying with HUD requirements and PHA policies to deny assistance to applicants who are engaging in or have engaged in certain criminal activities. In order to obtain access to the records the PHA must require every applicant family to submit a consent form signed by each adult household member [24 CFR 5.903].

PHA Policy
The PHA will perform a criminal background check through a contracted screening company or through local law enforcement for every adult household member.

While a PHA has regulatory authority to use criminal conviction records for the purpose of applicant screening for admission, there is no corresponding authority to use these records to check for criminal and illegal drug activity by participants, and therefore, PHAs may not use records for this purpose.

PHAs are required to perform criminal background checks necessary to determine whether any household member is subject to a lifetime registration requirement under a state sex offender program in the state where the housing is located, as well as in any other state where a household member is known to have resided [24 CFR 982.553(a)(2)(i)].

PHA Policy
The PHA will use the Dru Sjodin National Sex Offender database to screen applicants for admission.

Additionally, PHAs must ask whether the applicant, or any member of the applicant’s household, is subject to a lifetime registered sex offender registration requirement in any state [Notice PIH 2012-28].

If the PHA proposes to deny assistance based on a criminal record or on lifetime sex offender registration information, the PHA must notify the household of the proposed action and must provide the subject of the record and the applicant a copy of the record and an opportunity to dispute the accuracy and relevance of the information prior to a denial of admission. [24 CFR 5.903(f) and 5.905(d)].

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 27 Revised August 2, 2022 Screening for Suitability as a Tenant [24 CFR 982.307]
The PHA has no liability or responsibility to the owner for the family’s behavior or suitability for tenancy. The PHA has the authority to conduct additional screening to determine whether an applicant is likely to be a suitable tenant.

PHA Policy
The PHA will not conduct additional screening to determine an applicant family’s suitability for tenancy.

The owner is responsible for screening and selection of the family to occupy the owner’s unit. The PHA must inform the owner that screening and selection for tenancy is the responsibility of the owner. An owner may consider a family’s history with respect to factors such as: payment of rent and utilities, caring for a unit and premises, respecting the rights of other residents to the peaceful enjoyment of their housing, criminal activity that is a threat to the health, safety or property of others, and compliance with other essential conditions of tenancy.

HUD requires the PHA to provide prospective owners with the family's current and prior address (as shown in PHA records) and the name and address (if known) of the owner at the family's current and prior addresses. HUD permits the PHA to provide owners with additional information, as long as families are notified that the information will be provided, and the same type of information is provided to all owners.

The PHA may not disclose to the owner any confidential information provided to the PHA by the family in response to a PHA request for documentation of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking except at the written request or with the written consent of the individual providing the documentation
[24 CFR 5.2007(a)(4)].

PHA Policy
The PHA will inform owners of their responsibility to screen prospective tenants and may provide owners with the required known name and address information, at the time of the initial HQS inspection or before. The PHA will not provide any additional information to the owner, such as tenancy history or criminal history, etc.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 28 Revised August 2, 2022 3-III.E. CRITERIA FOR DECIDING TO DENY ASSISTANCE
Evidence [24 CFR 982.553(c)]
PHA Policy
The PHA will use the concept of the preponderance of the evidence as the standard for making all admission decisions.

Preponderance of the evidence is defined as evidence which is of greater weight or more convincing than the evidence which is offered in opposition to it; that is, evidence which as a whole show that the fact sought to be proved is more probable than not. Preponderance of the evidence may not be determined by the number of witnesses, but by the greater weight of all evidence.

Consideration of Circumstances [24 CFR 982.552(c)(2)]
HUD authorizes the PHA to consider all relevant circumstances when deciding whether to deny assistance based on a family’s past history except in the situations for which denial of assistance is mandatory (see Section 3-III.B).

PHA Policy
The PHA will consider the following facts and circumstances prior to making its decision:
 The seriousness of the case, especially with respect to how it would affect other residents’ safety or property
 The effects that denial of assistance may have on other members of the family who were not involved in the action or failure to act
 The extent of participation or culpability of individual family members, including whether the culpable family member is a minor or a person with disabilities, or (as discussed further in section 3-III.G) a victim of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking  The length of time since the violation occurred, including the age of the individual at the time of the conduct, as well as the family’s recent history and the likelihood of favorable conduct in the future
 While a record or records of arrest will not be used as the sole basis for denial, an arrest may, however, trigger an investigation to determine whether the applicant actually engaged in disqualifying criminal activity. As part of its investigation, the PHA may obtain the police report associated with the arrest and consider the reported circumstances of the arrest. The PHA may also consider:
o Any statements made by witnesses or the applicant not included in the police report o Whether criminal charges were filed
o Whether, if filed, criminal charges were abandoned, dismissed, not prosecuted, or ultimately resulted in an acquittal
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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 29 Revised August 2, 2022 o Any other evidence relevant to determining whether or not the applicant engaged in disqualifying activity
 Evidence of criminal conduct will be considered if it indicates a demonstrable risk to safety and/or property
 In the case of drug or alcohol abuse, whether the culpable household member is participating in or has successfully completed a supervised drug or alcohol rehabilitation program or has otherwise been rehabilitated successfully
The PHA will require the applicant to submit evidence of the household member’s current participation in or successful completion of a supervised drug or alcohol rehabilitation program, or evidence of otherwise having been rehabilitated successfully.

Removal of a Family Member's Name from the Application
Should the PHA’s screening process reveal that an applicant’s household includes an individual subject to state lifetime registered sex offender registration, the PHA must offer the family the opportunity to remove the ineligible family member from the household. If the family is unwilling to remove that individual from the household, the PHA must deny admission to the family [Notice PIH 2012-28].

For other criminal activity, the PHA may permit the family to exclude the culpable family members as a condition of eligibility. [24 CFR 982.552(c)(2)(ii)].

PHA Policy
As a condition of receiving assistance, a family may agree to remove the culpable family member from the application. In such instances, the head of household must certify that the family member will not be permitted to visit, stay as a guest, or reside in the assisted unit.

After admission to the program, the family must present evidence of the former family member’s current address.

Reasonable Accommodation [24 CFR 982.552(c)(2)(iv)]
If the family includes a person with disabilities, the PHA’s decision concerning denial of admission is subject to consideration of reasonable accommodation in accordance with 24 CFR Part 8.

PHA Policy
If the family indicates that the behavior of a family member with a disability is the reason for the proposed denial of assistance, the PHA will determine whether the behavior is related to the stated disability. If so, upon the family’s request, the PHA will determine whether admitting the family as a reasonable accommodation is appropriate. The PHA will only consider accommodations that can reasonably be expected to address the behavior that is the basis of the proposed denial of assistance. See Chapter 2 for a discussion of reasonable accommodation.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 30 Revised August 2, 2022 3-III.F. NOTICE OF ELIGIBILITY OR DENIAL
If the family is eligible for assistance, the PHA will notify the family in writing and schedule a tenant briefing, as discussed in Chapter 5.

If the PHA determines that a family is not eligible for the program for any reason, the family must be notified promptly. The notice must describe: (1) the reasons for which assistance has been denied, (2) the family’s right to an informal review, and (3) the process for obtaining the informal review [24 CFR 982.554 (a)]. See Chapter 16, for informal review policies and procedures.

PHA Policy
The family will be notified of a decision to deny assistance in writing within 10 business days of the determination.

If a PHA uses a criminal record or sex offender registration information obtained under 24 CFR 5, Subpart J, as the basis of a denial, a copy of the record must precede the notice to deny, with an opportunity for the applicant to dispute the accuracy and relevance of the information before the PHA can move to deny the application. In addition, a copy of the record must be provided to the subject of the record [24 CFR 5.903(f) and 5.905(d)]. The PHA must give the family an opportunity to dispute the accuracy and relevance of that record, in the informal review process in accordance with program requirements [24 CFR 982.553(d)].

PHA Policy
If based on a criminal record or sex offender registration information, an applicant family appears to be ineligible the PHA will notify the family in writing of the proposed denial and provide a copy of the record to the applicant and to the subject of the record. The family will be given 10 business days to dispute the accuracy and relevance of the information. If the family does not contact the PHA to dispute the information within that 10-day period, the PHA will proceed with issuing the notice of denial of admission. A family that does not exercise their right to dispute the accuracy of the information prior to issuance of the official denial letter will still be given the opportunity to do so as part of the informal review process.

Notice requirements related to denying assistance to noncitizens are contained in Section 3-II.B.

Notice policies related to denying admission to applicants who may be victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault or stalking are contained in Section 3-III.G.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 31 Revised August 2, 2022 3-III.G. PROHIBITION AGAINST DENIAL OF ASSISTANCE TO VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC

VIOLENCE, DATING VIOLENCE, SEXUAL ASSAULT, AND STALKING The Violence against Women Act of 2013 (VAWA) and the HUD regulation at 24 CFR 5.2005(b) prohibit PHAs from denying an applicant admission to the HCV program on the basis or as a direct result of the fact that the applicant is or has been a victim of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking, if the applicant otherwise qualifies for assistance or admission.

Definitions of key terms used in VAWA are provided in section 16-IX of this plan, where general VAWA requirements and policies pertaining to notification, documentation, and confidentiality are also located.

Notification
VAWA 2013 expanded notification requirements to include the obligation for PHAs to provide applicants who are denied assistance with a VAWA Notice of Occupancy Rights (form HUD–5380) and a domestic violence certification form (HUD-5382) at the time the applicant is denied.

PHA Policy
The PHA acknowledges that a victim of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking may have an unfavorable history (e.g., a poor credit history, poor rental history, a record of previous damage to an apartment, a prior arrest record) due to adverse factors that would warrant denial under the PHA’s policies.

While the PHA is not required to identify whether adverse factors that resulted in the applicant’s denial are a result of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking, the applicant may inform the PHA that their status as a victim is directly related to the grounds for the denial.

The PHA will request that the applicant provide enough information to the PHA to allow the PHA to make an objectively reasonable determination, based on all circumstances, whether the adverse factor is a direct result of their status as a victim.

The PHA will include in its notice of denial the VAWA information described in section 16- IX.C of this plan as well as including a copy of the form HUD-5382. The PHA will request in writing that an applicant wishing to claim protection under VAWA notify the PHA within 14 business days.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 32 Revised August 2, 2022 Documentation
Victim Documentation [24 CFR 5.2007]
PHA Policy
If an applicant claims the protection against denial of assistance that VAWA provides to victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault or stalking, the PHA will request in writing that the applicant provide documentation supporting the claim in accordance with section 16- IX.D of this plan.

Perpetrator Documentation
PHA Policy
If the perpetrator of the abuse is a member of the applicant family, the applicant must provide additional documentation consisting of one of the following:

A signed statement (1) requesting that the perpetrator be removed from the application and (2) certifying that the perpetrator will not be permitted to visit or to stay as a guest in the assisted unit
Documentation that the perpetrator has successfully completed, or is successfully undergoing, rehabilitation or treatment. The documentation must be signed by an employee or agent of a domestic violence service provider or by a medical or other knowledgeable professional from whom the perpetrator has sought or is receiving assistance in addressing the abuse. The signer must attest under penalty of perjury to his or her belief that the rehabilitation was successfully completed or is progressing successfully. The victim and perpetrator must also sign or attest to the documentation.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 33 Revised August 2, 2022 EXHIBIT 3-1: DETAILED DEFINITIONS RELATED TO DISABILITIES Person with Disabilities [24 CFR 5.403]
The term person with disabilities means a person who has any of the following types of conditions:
 Has a disability, as defined in 42 U.S.C. Section 423(d)(1)(A), which reads:

Inability to engage in any substantial gainful activity by reason of any medically determinable physical or mental impairment which can be expected to result in death or which has lasted or can be expected to last for a continuous period of not less than 12 months; or In the case of an individual who has attained the age of 55 and is blind (within the meaning of “blindness” as defined in section 416(i)(1) of this title), inability by reason of such blindness to engage in substantial gainful activity, requiring skills or ability comparable to those of any gainful activity in which he has previously engaged with some regularity and over a substantial period of time.
 Has a developmental disability as defined in the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 [42 U.S.C.15002(8)], which defines developmental disability in functional terms as follows:

(A) In General
The term “developmental disability” means a severe, chronic disability of an individual that:
(i) is attributable to a mental or physical impairment or combination of mental and physical impairments;
(ii) is manifested before the individual attains age 22; (iii) is likely to continue indefinitely;
(iv) results in substantial functional limitations in 3 or more of the following areas of major life activity: (I) Self-care, (II) Receptive and expressive language, (III) Learning, (IV) Mobility, (V) Self-direction, (VI) Capacity for independent living, (VII) Economic self- sufficiency; and
(v) reflects the individual’s need for a combination and sequence of special, interdisciplinary, or generic services, individualized supports, or other forms of assistance that are of lifelong or extended duration and are individually planned and coordinated. (B) Infants and Young Children
An individual from birth to age 9, inclusive, who has a substantial developmental delay or specific congenital or acquired condition, may be considered to have a developmental disability without meeting 3 or more of the criteria described in clauses (i) through (v) of subparagraph (A) if the individual, without services and supports, has a high probability of meeting those criteria later in life.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 34 Revised August 2, 2022  Has a physical, mental, or emotional impairment that is expected to be of long-continued and indefinite duration; substantially impedes his or her ability to live independently, and is of such a nature that the ability to live independently could be improved by more suitable housing conditions.

People with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) or any conditions arising from the etiologic agent for AIDS are not excluded from this definition.

A person whose disability is based solely on any drug or alcohol dependence does not qualify as a person with disabilities for the purposes of this program.

For purposes of reasonable accommodation and program accessibility for persons with disabilities, the term person with disabilities refers to an individual with handicaps.

Individual with Handicaps [24 CFR 8.3]
Individual with handicaps means any person who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities; has a record of such an impairment; or is regarded as having such an impairment. The term does not include any individual who is an alcoholic or drug abuser whose current use of alcohol or drugs prevents the individual from participating in the program or activity in question, or whose participation, by reason of such current alcohol or drug abuse, would constitute a direct threat to property or the safety of others. As used in this definition, the phrase:
(1) Physical or mental impairment includes:
(a) Any physiological disorder or condition, cosmetic disfigurement, or anatomical loss affecting one or more of the following body systems: neurological; musculoskeletal; special sense organs; respiratory, including speech organs; cardiovascular; reproductive; digestive; genito-urinary; hemic and lymphatic; skin; and endocrine; or
(b) Any mental or psychological disorder, such as mental retardation, organic brain syndrome, emotional or mental illness, and specific learning disabilities. The term physical or mental impairment includes, but is not limited to, such diseases and conditions as orthopedic, visual, speech and hearing impairments, cerebral palsy, autism, epilepsy, muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis, cancer, heart disease, diabetes, mental retardation, emotional illness, drug addiction and alcoholism.
(2) Major life activities means functions such as caring for one's self, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning and working. (3) Has a record of such an impairment means has a history of, or has been misclassified as having, a mental or physical impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. (4) Is regarded as having an impairment means:
(a) Has a physical or mental impairment that does not substantially limit one or more major life activities but that is treated by a recipient as constituting such a limitation; (b) Has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities only as a result of the attitudes of others toward such impairment; or (c) Has none of the impairments defined in paragraph (1) of this section but is treated by a recipient as having such an impairment.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 35 Revised August 2, 2022 EXHIBIT 3-2: DEFINITION OF INSTITUTION OF HIGHER EDUCATION [20 U.S.C. 1001 and 1002]
Eligibility of Students for Assisted Housing Under Section 8 of the U.S. Housing Act of 1937; Supplementary Guidance; Notice [Federal Register, April 10, 2006] Institution of Higher Education shall have the meaning given this term in the Higher Education Act of 1965 in 20 U.S.C. 1001 and 1002.

Definition of ‘‘Institution of Higher Education’’ From 20 U.S.C. 1001 (a) Institution of higher education. For purposes of this chapter, other than subchapter IV and part C of subchapter I of chapter 34 of Title 42, the term ‘‘institution of higher education’’ means an educational institution in any State that
(1) Admits as regular students only persons having a certificate of graduation from a school providing secondary education, or the recognized equivalent of such a certificate; (2) Is legally authorized within such State to provide a program of education beyond secondary education;
(3) Provides an educational program for which the institution awards a bachelor’s degree or provides not less than a 2-year program that is acceptable for full credit toward such a degree; (4) Is a public or other nonprofit institution; and
(5) Is accredited by a nationally recognized accrediting agency or association, or if not so accredited, is an institution that has been granted preaccreditation status by such an agency or association that has been recognized by the Secretary for the granting of preaccreditation status, and the Secretary has determined that there is satisfactory assurance that the institution will meet the accreditation standards of such an agency or association within a reasonable time. (b) Additional institutions included. For purposes of this chapter, other than subchapter IV and part C of subchapter I of chapter 34 of Title 42, the term ‘‘institution of higher education’’ also includes— (1) Any school that provides not less than a 1-year program of training to prepare students for gainful employment in a recognized occupation and that meets the provision of paragraphs (1), (2), (4), and (5) of subsection (a) of this section; and (2) A public or nonprofit private educational institution in any State that, in lieu of the requirement in subsection (a)(1) of this section, admits as regular students persons who are beyond the age of compulsory school attendance in the State in which the institution is located. (c) List of accrediting agencies. For purposes of this section and section 1002 of this title, the Secretary shall publish a list of nationally recognized accrediting agencies or associations that the Secretary determines, pursuant to subpart 2 of part G of subchapter IV of this chapter, to be reliable authority as to the quality of the education or training offered.

Definition of ‘‘Institution of Higher Education’’ From 20 U.S.C. 1002 (a) Definition of institution of higher education for purposes of student assistance programs Packet Page 90 of 1050Attachment 2 Page 62 of 487

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 36 Revised August 2, 2022 (1) Inclusion of additional institutions. Subject to paragraphs (2) through (4) of this subsection, the term ‘‘institution of higher education’’ for purposes of subchapter IV of this chapter and part C of subchapter I of chapter 34 of title 42 includes, in addition to the institutions covered by the definition in section 1001 of this title—
(A) A proprietary institution of higher education (as defined in subsection (b) of this section); (B) A postsecondary vocational institution (as defined in subsection (c) of this section); and (C) Only for the purposes of part B of subchapter IV of this chapter, an institution outside the United States that is comparable to an institution of higher education as defined in section 1001 of this title and that has been approved by the Secretary for the purpose of part B of subchapter IV of this chapter.
(2) Institutions outside the United States
(A) In general. For the purpose of qualifying as an institution under paragraph (1)(C), the Secretary shall establish criteria by regulation for the approval of institutions outside the United States and for the determination that such institutions are comparable to an institution of higher education as defined in section 1001 of this title (except that a graduate medical school, or a veterinary school, located outside the United States shall not be required to meet the requirements of section 1001 (a)(4) of this title). Such criteria shall include a requirement that a student attending such school outside the United States is ineligible for loans made, insured, or guaranteed under part B of subchapter IV of this chapter unless— (i) In the case of a graduate medical school located outside the United States— (I)(aa) At least 60 percent of those enrolled in, and at least 60 percent of the graduates of, the graduate medical school outside the United States were not persons described in section 1091(a)(5) of this title in the year preceding the year for which a student is seeking a loan under part B of subchapter IV of this chapter; and (bb) At least 60 percent of the individuals who were students or graduates of the graduate medical school outside the United States or Canada (both nationals of the United States and others) taking the examinations administered by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates received a passing score in the year preceding the year for which a student is seeking a loan under part B of subchapter IV of this chapter; or
(II) The institution has a clinical training program that was approved by a State as of January 1, 1992; or
(ii) In the case of a veterinary school located outside the United States that does not meet the requirements of section 1001(a)(4) of this title, the institution’s students complete their clinical training at an approved veterinary school located in the United States. (B) Advisory panel
(i) In general. For the purpose of qualifying as an institution under paragraph (1)(C) of this subsection, the Secretary shall establish an advisory panel of medical experts that shall— Packet Page 91 of 1050Attachment 2 Page 63 of 487

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 37 Revised August 2, 2022 (I) Evaluate the standards of accreditation applied to applicant foreign medical schools; and
(II) Determine the comparability of those standards to standards for accreditation applied to United States medical schools.
(ii) Special rule if the accreditation standards described in clause (i) are determined not to be comparable, the foreign medical school shall be required to meet the requirements of section 1001 of this title.
(C) Failure to release information. The failure of an institution outside the United States to provide, release, or authorize release to the Secretary of such information as may be required by subparagraph (A) shall render such institution ineligible for the purpose of part B of subchapter IV of this chapter.
(D) Special rule. If, pursuant to this paragraph, an institution loses eligibility to participate in the programs under subchapter IV of this chapter and part C of subchapter I of chapter 34 of title 42, then a student enrolled at such institution may, notwithstanding such loss of eligibility, continue to be eligible to receive a loan under part B while attending such institution for the academic year succeeding the academic year in which such loss of eligibility occurred. (3) Limitations based on course of study or enrollment. An institution shall not be considered to meet the definition of an institution of higher education in paragraph (1) if such institution— (A) Offers more than 50 percent of such institution’s courses b y correspondence, unless the institution is an institution that meets the definition in section 2471 (4)(C) of this title; (B) Enrolls 50 percent or more of the institution’s students in correspondence courses, unless the institution is an institution that meets the definition in such section, except that the Secretary, at the request of such institution, may waive the applicability of this subparagraph to such institution for good cause, as determined by the Secretary in the case of an institution of higher education that provides a 2-or 4-year program of instruction (or both) for which the institution awards an associate or baccalaureate degree, respectively; (C) Has a student enrollment in which more than 25 percent of the students are incarcerated, except that the Secretary may waive the limitation contained in this subparagraph for a nonprofit institution that provides a 2-or 4-year program of instruction (or both) for which the institution awards a bachelor’s degree, or an associate’s degree or a postsecondary diploma, respectively; or
(D) Has a student enrollment in which more than 50 percent of the students do not have a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent, and does not provide a 2-or 4-year program of instruction (or both) for which the institution awards a bachelor’s degree or an associate’s degree, respectively, except that the Secretary may waive the limitation contained in this subparagraph if a nonprofit institution demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Secretary that the institution exceeds such limitation because the institution serves, through contracts with Federal, State, or local government agencies, significant numbers of students who do not have a secondary school diploma or its recognized equivalent.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 38 Revised August 2, 2022 (4) Limitations based on management. An institution shall not be considered to meet the definition of an institution of higher education in paragraph (1) if— (A) The institution, or an affiliate of the institution that has the power, by contract or ownership interest, to direct or cause the direction of the management or policies of the institution, has filed for bankruptcy, except that this paragraph shall not apply to a nonprofit institution, the primary function of which is to provide health care educational services (or an affiliate of such an institution that has the power, by contract or ownership interest, to direct or cause the direction of the institution’s management or policies) that files for bankruptcy under chapter 11 of title 11 between July 1, 1998, and December 1, 1998; or (B) The institution, the institution’s owner, or the institution’s chief executive officer has been convicted of, or has pled nolo contendere or guilty to, a crime involving the acquisition, use, or expenditure of funds under subchapter IV of this chapter and part C of subchapter I of chapter 34 of title 42, or has been judicially determined to have committed fraud involving funds under subchapter IV of this chapter and part C of subchapter I of chapter 34 of title 42. (5) Certification. The Secretary shall certify an institution’s qualification as an institution of higher education in accordance with the requirements of subpart 3 of part G of subchapter IV of this chapter.
(6) Loss of eligibility. An institution of higher education shall not be considered to meet the definition of an institution of higher education in paragraph (1) if such institution is removed from eligibility for funds under subchapter IV of this chapter and part C of subchapter I of chapter 34 of title 42 as a result of an action pursuant to part G of subchapter IV of this chapter. (b) Proprietary institution of higher education
(1) Principal criteria. For the purpose of this section, the term ‘‘proprietary institution of higher education’’ means a school that—
(A) Provides an eligible program of training to prepare students for gainful employment in a recognized occupation;
(B) Meets the requirements of paragraphs (1) and (2) of section 1001 (a) of this title; (C) Does not meet the requirement of paragraph (4) of section 1001 (a) of this title; (D) Is accredited by a nationally recognized accrediting agency or association recognized by the Secretary pursuant to part G of subchapter IV of this chapter; (E) Has been in existence for at least 2 years; and
(F) Has at least 10 percent of the school’s revenues from sources that are not derived from funds provided under subchapter IV of this chapter and part C of subchapter I of chapter 34 of title 42, as determined in accordance with regulations prescribed by the Secretary. (2) Additional institutions. The term ‘‘proprietary institution of higher education’’ also includes a proprietary educational institution in any State that, in lieu of the requirement in paragraph (1) of Packet Page 93 of 1050Attachment 2 Page 65 of 487

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 39 Revised August 2, 2022 section 1001 (a) of this title, admits as regular students persons who are beyond the age of compulsory school attendance in the State in which the institution is located. (c) Postsecondary vocational institution.
(1) Principal criteria. For the purpose of this section, the term ‘‘postsecondary vocational institution’’ means a school that—
(A) Provides an eligible program of training to prepare students for gainful employment in a recognized occupation;
(B) Meets the requirements of paragraphs (1), (2), (4), and (5) of section 1001 (a) of this title; and
(C) Has been in existence for at least 2 years.
(2) Additional institutions. The term ‘‘postsecondary vocational institution’’ also includes an educational institution in any State that, in lieu of the requirement in paragraph (1) of section 1001 (a) of this title, admits as regular students’ persons who are beyond the age of compulsory school attendance in the State in which the institution is located.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 1 Revised August 2, 2022

CHAPTER 4

APPLICATIONS, WAITING LIST AND TENANT SELECTION

INTRODUCTION
When a family wishes to receive assistance under the HCV program, the family must submit an application that provides the PHA with the information needed to determine the family’s eligibility.

HUD requires the PHA to place all families that apply for assistance on a waiting list. When HCV assistance becomes available, the PHA must select families from the waiting list in accordance with HUD requirements and PHA policies as stated in the administrative plan and the annual plan.

The PHA is required to adopt clear policies and procedures for accepting applications, placing families on the waiting list, and selecting families from the waiting list, and must follow these policies and procedures consistently. The actual order in which families are selected from the waiting list can be affected if a family has certain characteristics designated by HUD or the PHA that justify their selection.

Examples of this are the selection of families for income targeting and the selection of families that qualify for targeted funding.

HUD regulations require that all families have an equal opportunity to apply for and receive housing assistance, and that the PHA affirmatively further fair housing goals in the administration of the program [24 CFR 982.53, HCV GB p. 4-1]. Adherence to the selection policies described in this chapter ensures that the PHA will be in compliance with all relevant fair housing requirements, as described in Chapter

2. This chapter describes HUD and PHA policies for taking applications, managing the waiting list, and selecting families for HCV assistance. The policies outlined in this chapter are organized into three sections, as follows:

Part I: The Application Process. This part provides an overview of the application process, and discusses how applicants can obtain and submit applications. It also specifies how the PHA will handle the applications it receives.

Part II: Managing the Waiting List. This part presents the policies that govern how the PHA’s waiting list is structured, when it is opened and closed, and how the public is notified of the opportunity to apply for assistance. It also discusses the process the PHA will use to keep the waiting list current.

Part III: Selection for HCV Assistance. This part describes the policies that guide the PHA in selecting families for HCV assistance as such assistance becomes available. It also specifies how in-person interviews will be used to ensure that the PHA has the information needed to make a final eligibility determination.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 2 Revised August 2, 2022 PART I: THE APPLICATION PROCESS
4-I.A. OVERVIEW
This part describes the PHA policies for making applications available, accepting applications making preliminary determinations of eligibility, and the placement of applicants on the waiting list. This part also describes the PHA’s obligation to ensure the accessibility of the application process to elderly persons, people with disabilities, and people with limited English proficiency (LEP). 4-I.B. APPLYING FOR ASSISTANCE [HCV GB, pp. 4-11 – 4-16, Notice PIH 2009-36] Any family that wishes to receive HCV assistance must apply for admission to the program. HUD permits the PHA to determine the format and content of HCV applications, as well how such applications will be made available to interested families and how applications will be accepted by the PHA. The PHA must include Form HUD-92006, Supplement to Application for Federally Assisted Housing, as part of the PHA’s application.

PHA Policy
Depending upon the length of time that applicants may need to wait to receive assistance, the PHA may use a one or two-step application process.

A one-step process will be used when it is expected that a family will be selected from the waiting list within 60 days of the date of application. At application, the family must provide all of the information necessary to establish family eligibility and level of assistance.

A two-step process will be used when it is expected that a family will not be selected from the waiting list for at least 60 days from the date of application. Under the two-step application process, the PHA initially will require families to provide only the information needed to make an initial assessment of the family’s eligibility, and to determine the family’s placement on the waiting list. The family will be required to provide all of the information necessary to establish family eligibility and level of assistance when the family is selected from the waiting list.

Families may complete an online pre-application at www.waitlistcheck.com . 4-I.C. ACCESSIBILITY OF THE APPLICATION PROCESS
Elderly and Disabled Populations [24 CFR 8 and HCV GB, pp. 4-11 – 4-13] The PHA must take steps to ensure that the application process is accessible to those people who might have difficulty complying with the normal, standard PHA application process. This could include people with disabilities, certain elderly individuals, as well as persons with limited English proficiency (LEP).

The PHA must provide reasonable accommodation to the needs of individuals with disabilities. The application-taking facility and the application process must be fully accessible, or the PHA must provide an alternate approach that provides full access to the application process. Chapter 2 provides a full discussion of the PHA’s policies related to providing reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 3 Revised August 2, 2022 Limited English Proficiency
PHAs are required to take reasonable steps to ensure equal access to their programs and activities by persons with limited English proficiency [24 CFR 1]. Chapter 2 provides a full discussion on the PHA’s policies related to ensuring access to people with limited English proficiency (LEP). 4-I.D. PLACEMENT ON THE WAITING LIST
The PHA must review each complete application received and make a preliminary assessment of the family’s eligibility. The PHA must accept applications from families for whom the list is open unless there is good cause for not accepting the application (such as denial of assistance) for the grounds stated in the regulations [24 CFR 982.206(b)(2)]. Where the family is determined to be ineligible, the PHA must notify the family in writing [24 CFR 982.201(f)]. Where the family is not determined to be ineligible, the family will be placed on a waiting list of applicants.

No applicant has a right or entitlement to be listed on the waiting list, or to any particular position on the waiting list [24 CFR 982.202(c)].

Ineligible for Placement on the Waiting List
PHA Policy
If the PHA can determine from the information provided that a family is ineligible, the family will not be placed on the waiting list. Where a family is determined to be ineligible, the PHA will send written notification of the ineligibility determination within 10 business days of receiving a complete application. The notice will specify the reasons for ineligibility and will inform the family of its right to request an informal review and explain the process for doing so (see Chapter 16).

Eligible for Placement on the Waiting List
PHA Policy
The applicant will receive confirmation that the application was successfully submitted at the time that the electronic application is submitted.

Placement on the waiting list does not indicate that the family is, in fact, eligible for assistance.

A final determination of eligibility will be made when the family is selected from the waiting list.

Applicants will be placed on the waiting list according to any preference(s) for which they qualify, and the date and time their complete application is received by the PHA.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 4 Revised August 2, 2022 PART II: MANAGING THE WAITING LIST
4-II.A. OVERVIEW
The PHA must have policies regarding various aspects of organizing and managing the waiting list of applicant families. This includes opening the list to new applicants, closing the list to new applicants, notifying the public of waiting list openings and closings, updating waiting list information, purging the list of families that are no longer interested in or eligible for assistance, as well as conducting outreach to ensure a sufficient number of applicants.

In addition, HUD imposes requirements on how a PHA may structure its waiting list and how families must be treated if they apply for assistance from a PHA that administers more than one assisted housing program.
4-II.B. ORGANIZATION OF THE WAITING LIST [24 CFR 982.204 and 205] The PHA’s HCV waiting list must be organized in such a manner to allow the PHA to accurately identify and select families for assistance in the proper order, according to the admissions policies described in this plan.

The waiting list must contain the following information for each applicant listed:
 Applicant name;
 Family unit size;
 Date and time of application;
 Qualification for any local preference;
 Racial or ethnic designation of the head of household.

HUD requires the PHA to maintain a single waiting list for the HCV program unless it serves more than one county or municipality. Such PHAs are permitted, but not required, to maintain a separate waiting list for each county or municipality served.

PHA Policy
The PHA will maintain a single waiting list for the HCV program.

HUD directs that a family that applies for assistance from the HCV program must be offered the opportunity to be placed on the waiting list for any public housing, project-based voucher, or moderate rehabilitation program the PHA operates if 1) the other programs’ waiting lists are open, and 2) the family is qualified for the other programs.

HUD permits, but does not require, that PHAs maintain a single merged waiting list for their public housing, Section 8, and other subsidized housing programs.

A family’s decision to apply for, receive, or refuse other housing assistance must not affect the family’s placement on the HCV waiting list, or any preferences for which the family may qualify.

PHA Policy
The PHA will not merge the HCV waiting list with the waiting list for any other program the PHA operates.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 5 Revised August 2, 2022 4-II.C. OPENING AND CLOSING THE WAITING LIST [24 CFR 982.206] Closing the Waiting List
A PHA is permitted to close the waiting list if it has an adequate pool of families to use its available HCV assistance. Alternatively, the PHA may elect to continue to accept applications only from certain categories of families that meet particular preferences or funding criteria.

PHA Policy
The PHA may stop pre-applications if there are enough pre-applicants to fill anticipated openings for the next 24 months. Where the PHA has particular preferences or funding criteria that require a specific category of family, the PHA may elect to continue to accept applications from these applicants while closing the waiting list to others.

Reopening the Waiting List
If the waiting list has been closed, it cannot be reopened until the PHA publishes a notice in local newspapers of general circulation, minority media, and other suitable media outlets. The notice must comply with HUD fair housing requirements and must specify who may apply, and where and when applications will be received.

PHA Policy
The PHA will announce the reopening of the waiting list at least 10 business days prior to the date pre-applications will first be accepted. If the list is only being reopened for certain categories of families, this information will be contained in the notice.

The PHA will give public notice by publishing the relevant information in suitable media outlets including, but not limited to:

Daily Republic, Fairfield Channel 26, GoSection8.com
The PHA will ensure that all public notices are delivered in the languages identified in its LEP plan.

The application process will involve two phases:

1) The first is the pre-application for admission. This first phase is to determine placement on the wait list. Duplicate pre-applications will not be accepted. “Duplicate Pre-Application” is when multiple pre- applications are submitted in which the head of household name and social security number are the same.

The first pre-application will be accepted for its date and time however the address and other updated information will be used to update the current record. It will not benefit applicants to submit multiple pre- applications (i.e. this does not improve the chances of being selected).

a. Pre-applications submitted for the Tenant-Based Voucher Wait List that meet the HCV preferences and income limit will be drawn through a computerized random lottery selection process and placed on the wait list.
b. The assigned lottery number is used to determine the family’s placement on the wait list.

Again, the submission of multiple pre-applications will not increase the chances of being placed on the wait list.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 6 Revised August 2, 2022 2) Selection from the Tenant-Based Voucher Wait List. The next phase is the "final determination of eligibility for admission." The full two-part application takes place when the family or individual pre- applicant reaches the top of the wait list. At this time the PHA will ensure that verification of all HUD and PHA eligibility factors are current and accurate.

Pre-applications may not require an interview. The information on the pre-application will not be verified until the pre-applicant has been selected for final eligibility determination. Final eligibility will be determined when the application process has been completed and all information has been verified.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 7 Revised August 2, 2022 4-II.D. FAMILY OUTREACH [HCV GB, pp. 4-2 to 4-4]
The PHA must conduct outreach as necessary to ensure that the PHA has a sufficient number of applicants on the waiting list to use the HCV resources it has been allotted.

Because HUD requires the PHA to admit a specified percentage of extremely low-income families to the program (see Chapter 4, Part III), the PHA may need to conduct special outreach to ensure that an adequate number of such families apply for assistance [HCV GB, p. 4-20 to 4-21].

PHA outreach efforts must comply with fair housing requirements. This includes:
 Analyzing the housing market area and the populations currently being served to identify underserved populations
 Ensuring that outreach efforts are targeted to media outlets that reach eligible populations that are underrepresented in the program
 Avoiding outreach efforts that prefer or exclude people who are members of a protected class PHA outreach efforts must be designed to inform qualified families about the availability of assistance under the program. These efforts may include, as needed, any of the following activities:
 Submitting press releases to local newspapers, including minority newspapers  Developing informational materials and flyers to distribute to other agencies  Providing application forms to other public and private agencies that serve the low income population
 Developing partnerships with other organizations that serve similar populations, including agencies that provide services for persons with disabilities
PHA Policy
The PHA will monitor the characteristics of the population being served and the characteristics of the population as a whole in the PHA’s jurisdiction. Targeted outreach efforts will be undertaken if a comparison suggests that certain populations are being underserved.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 8 Revised August 2, 2022 4-II.E. REPORTING CHANGES IN FAMILY CIRCUMSTANCES
PHA Policy
While the family is on the waiting list, the family must immediately inform the PHA of changes in contact information, including current residence, mailing address, and phone number. The changes must be submitted in writing or via the online applicant portal. 4-II.F. UPDATING THE WAITING LIST [24 CFR 982.204]
HUD requires the PHA to establish policies to use when removing applicant names from the waiting list.

Purging the Waiting List
The decision to withdraw an applicant family that includes a person with disabilities from the waiting list is subject to reasonable accommodation. If the applicant did not respond to a PHA request for information or updates, and the PHA determines that the family did not respond because of the family member’s disability, the PHA must reinstate the applicant family to their former position on the waiting list [24 CFR 982.204(c)(2)].

PHA Policy
The waiting list will be updated as needed to ensure that all applicants and applicant information is current and timely.

To update the waiting list, the PHA will send an update request via first class mail to each family on the waiting list to determine whether the family continues to be interested in, and to qualify for, the program. This update request will be sent to the last address that the PHA has on record for the family. The update request will provide a deadline by which the family must respond and will state that failure to respond will result in the applicant’s name being removed from the waiting list.

The family’s response must be in writing and may be delivered in person, by mail, by email, or by fax. Responses should be postmarked or received by the PHA not later than 10 business days from the date of the PHA letter.

If the family fails to respond within 10 business days, the family will be removed from the waiting list without further notice.

If the notice is returned by the post office with no forwarding address, the applicant will be removed from the waiting list without further notice.

If the notice is returned by the post office with a forwarding address, the notice will be re-sent to the address indicated. The family will have 10 business days to respond from the date the letter was re-sent.

If a family is removed from the waiting list for failure to respond, the PHA may reinstate the family if it is determined that the lack of response was due to PHA error, or to circumstances beyond the family’s control.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 9 Revised August 2, 2022 Removal from the Waiting List
PHA Policy
If at any time an applicant family is on the waiting list, the PHA determines that the family is not eligible for assistance (see Chapter 3), the family will be removed from the waiting list.

If a family is removed from the waiting list because the PHA has determined the family is not eligible for assistance, a notice will be sent to the family’s address of record as well as to any alternate address provided on the initial application. The notice will state the reasons the family was removed from the waiting list and will inform the family how to request an informal review regarding the PHA’s decision (see Chapter 16) [24 CFR 982.201(f)].

PART III: SELECTION FOR HCV ASSISTANCE
4-III.A. OVERVIEW
As vouchers become available, families on the waiting list must be selected for assistance in accordance with the policies described in this part.

The order in which families are selected from the waiting list depends on the selection method chosen by the PHA and is impacted in part by any selection preferences for which the family qualifies. The availability of targeted funding also may affect the order in which families are selected from the waiting list.

The PHA must maintain a clear record of all information required to verify that the family is selected from the waiting list according to the PHA’s selection policies [24 CFR 982.204(b) and 982.207(e)]. 4-III.B. SELECTION AND HCV FUNDING SOURCES
Special Admissions [24 CFR 982.203]
HUD may award funding for specifically named families living in specified types of units (e.g., a family that is displaced by demolition of public housing; a non-purchasing family residing in a HOPE 1 or 2 projects). In these cases, the PHA may admit such families whether or not they are on the waiting list, and, if they are on the waiting list, without considering the family’s position on the waiting list. These families are considered non-waiting list selections. The PHA must maintain records showing that such families were admitted with special program funding.

Targeted Funding [24 CFR 982.204(e)]
HUD may award a PHA funding for a specified category of families on the waiting list. The PHA must use this funding only to assist the families within the specified category. In order to assist families within a targeted funding category, the PHA may skip families that do not qualify within the targeted funding category. Within this category of families, the order in which such families are assisted is determined according to the policies provided in Section 4-III.C.

PHA Policy
The PHA administers the following types of targeted funding:

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 10 Revised August 2, 2022 Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH) Vouchers
Regular HCV Funding
Regular HCV funding may be used to assist any eligible family on the waiting list. Families are selected from the waiting list according to the policies provided in Section 4-III.C. 4-III.C. SELECTION METHOD
PHAs must describe the method for selecting applicant families from the waiting list, including the system of admission preferences that the PHA will use [24 CFR 982.202(d)].

Local Preferences [24 CFR 982.207; HCV p. 4-16]
PHAs are permitted to establish local preferences, and to give priority to serving families that meet those criteria. HUD specifically authorizes and places restrictions on certain types of local preferences. HUD also permits the PHA to establish other local preferences, at its discretion. Any local preferences established must be consistent with the PHA plan and the consolidated plan and must be based on local housing needs and priorities that can be documented by generally accepted data sources.

PHA Policy
The PHA will use the following local preferences:

1. The PHA will offer a preference to any family that has been terminated from its HCV program due to insufficient program funding.

This preference will be worth 25 points.

2. The PHA will offer a preference to applicant families who participated in the City of Fairfield Temporary Tenant-Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) Program for persons experiencing homelessness that was administered by the City of Fairfield and substantially completed the required self-sufficiency component and/or are elderly or disabled. Families and individuals meeting the criteria may apply whether the HCV waiting list is open or closed. In order to apply for the waiting list during a period when it is closed to the general population, the TBRA participant must submit an application to the FHA, and the FHA must receive it, within 45 days of the last day the applicant was assisted under TBRA
This preference will be worth 25 points.

3. The PHA will offer a preference for applicant families who live within the city limits of Fairfield, or whose head, spouse, or co-head of household works (verifiable, paid employment) or have been notified that they are hired to work within the city limits of Fairfield.

This preference will be worth 20 points.

4. The PHA will offer a preference for families whose head of household, co-head of household, or spouse is a veteran.

This preference will be worth 10 points.

5. The PHA will offer a preference for homeless families and individuals.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 11 Revised August 2, 2022 This preference will be worth 7 points.

6. The PHA will offer a preference for families whose head of household, co-head of household, or spouse is elderly or disabled.

This preference will be worth 6 points.

7. The PHA will offer a preference to families that include victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking who have either been referred by a partnering service agency or consortia.

The applicant must certify that the abuser will not reside with the applicant unless the PHA gives prior written approval.

This preference will be worth 4 points.

8. Rent Burden: The PHA will offer a preference to families that are paying over 50% of their income towards rent and utilities.

This preference will be worth 3 points.

Income Targeting Requirement [24 CFR 982.201(b)(2)]
HUD requires that extremely low-income (ELI) families make up at least 75 percent of the families admitted to the HCV program during the PHA’s fiscal year. ELI families are those with annual incomes at or below the federal poverty level or 30 percent of the area median income, whichever number is higher. To ensure this requirement is met, a PHA may skip non-ELI families on the waiting list in order to select an ELI family.

Low-income families admitted to the program that are “continuously assisted” under the 1937 Housing Act [24 CFR 982.4(b)], as well as low-income or moderate-income families admitted to the program that are displaced as a result of the prepayment of the mortgage or voluntary termination of an insurance contract on eligible low-income housing, are not counted for income targeting purposes [24 CFR 982.201(b)(2)(v)].

PHA Policy
The PHA will monitor progress in meeting the income targeting requirement throughout the fiscal year. Extremely low-income families will be selected ahead of other eligible families on an as-needed basis to ensure the income targeting requirement is met.

Order of Selection
The PHA system of preferences may select families based on local preferences according to the date and time of application or by a random selection process (lottery) [24 CFR 982.207(c)]. If a PHA does not have enough funding to assist the family at the top of the waiting list, it is not permitted to skip down the waiting list to a family that it can afford to subsidize when there are not sufficient funds to subsidize the family at the top of the waiting list [24 CFR 982.204(d) and (e)].

PHA Policy
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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 12 Revised August 2, 2022 Families will be selected from the waiting list based on the targeted funding or selection preference(s) for which they qualify, and in accordance with the PHA’s hierarchy of preferences, if applicable. Within each targeted funding or preference category, families will be selected on a first-come, first-served basis according to the date and time their complete application is received by the PHA. Documentation will be maintained by the PHA as to whether families on the list qualify for and are interested in targeted funding. If a higher placed family on the waiting list is not qualified or not interested in targeted funding, there will be a notation maintained so that the PHA does not have to ask higher placed families each time targeted selections are made. 4-III.D. NOTIFICATION OF SELECTION
When a family has been selected from the waiting list, the PHA must notify the family [24 CFR 982.554(a)].

PHA Policy
The PHA will notify the family by first class mail when it is selected from the waiting list. The PHA may also send this notification through the online applicant portal. The notice will inform the family of the following:

Date, time, and location of the scheduled application interview, including any procedures for rescheduling the interview,
Who is required to attend the interview; and
All documents that must be provided at the interview, including information about what constitutes acceptable documentation.

If a notification letter is returned to the PHA with no forwarding address, the family will be removed from the waiting list. A notice of denial (see Chapter 3) will be sent to the family’s address of record, as well as to any known alternate address.

The PHA may require application interviews to be conducted virtually in extreme situations. 4-III.E. THE APPLICATION INTERVIEW
HUD recommends that the PHA obtain the information and documentation needed to make an eligibility determination though a face-to-face interview with a PHA representative [HCV GB, pg. 4-16]. Being invited to attend an interview does not constitute admission to the program.

Assistance cannot be provided to the family until all SSN documentation requirements are met.

However, if the PHA determines that an applicant family is otherwise eligible to participate in the program, the family may retain its place on the waiting list for a period of time determined by the PHA [Notice PIH 2018-24].

Reasonable accommodation must be made for persons with disabilities who are unable to attend an interview due to their disability.

PHA Policy
Families selected from the waiting list are required to participate in an eligibility interview.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 13 Revised August 2, 2022 All adult household members are required to attend the interview. If all adults do not attend the first scheduled appointment, a second application interview will be scheduled. If all adults do not attend the second scheduled interview, the application will be denied for failure to update required information.

All adult members of the household must provide acceptable documentation of legal identity. (Chapter 7 provides a discussion of proper documentation of legal identity.) If the family does not provide the required documentation at the time of the interview, he or she will be required to provide it within 10 business days.

Pending disclosure and documentation of social security numbers, the PHA will allow the family to retain its place on the waiting list for 90 days. If all household members have not disclosed their SSNs at the next time the PHA is issuing vouchers, the PHA will issue a voucher to the next eligible applicant family on the waiting list.

The family must provide the information necessary to establish the family’s eligibility and determine the appropriate level of assistance, and must complete required forms, provide required signatures, and submit required documentation. If any materials are missing, the PHA will provide the family with a written list of items that must be submitted.

Any required documents or information that the family is unable to provide at the interview must be provided within 10 business days of the interview (Chapter 7 provides details about longer submission deadlines for particular items, including documentation of eligible noncitizen status).

If the family is unable to obtain the information or materials within the required time frame, the family may request an extension. If the required documents and information are not provided within the required time frame (plus any extensions), the family will be sent a notice of denial (See Chapter 3).

An advocate, interpreter, or other assistant may assist the family with the application and the interview process.

Interviews will be conducted in English. For limited English proficient (LEP) applicants, the PHA will provide translation services in accordance with the PHA’s LEP plan.

If the family does not attend the appointment, either the initial or any rescheduled appointment, and does not contact the FHA before the appointment date to reschedule (if applicable), the FHA will reject the application and drop the family from the waiting list without further written notification. If the family contacts the FHA within 5 business days of the scheduled appointment and can provide acceptable documentation to the FHA that an emergency situation prevented them from rescheduling or attending the appointment, the FHA may allow the family to reschedule the appointment. Requests to reschedule received on the same day of the appointment will be considered contact within 5 business days of the scheduled appointment and the family will be required to provide acceptable documentation to the FHA that an emergency situation prevented them from rescheduling prior to the appointment or from attending the appointment.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 14 Revised August 2, 2022 4-III.F. COMPLETING THE APPLICATION PROCESS
The PHA must verify all information provided by the family (see Chapter 7). Based on verified information, the PHA must make a final determination of eligibility (see Chapter 3) and must confirm that the family qualified for any special admission, targeted funding admission, or selection preference that affected the order in which the family was selected from the waiting list.

PHA Policy
If the PHA determines that the family is ineligible, the PHA will send written notification of the ineligibility determination within 10 business days of the determination. The notice will specify the reasons for ineligibility and will inform the family of its right to request an informal review (Chapter 16).

If a family fails to qualify for any criteria that affected the order in which it was selected from the waiting list (e.g., targeted funding, extremely low-income), the family will be returned to the waiting list. The PHA will notify the family in writing that it has been returned to the waiting list, will specify the reasons for it, and will inform the family of its right to request an informal review (Chapter 16).

If applicants are returned to the wait list, they will not have the right to an informal review.

If the PHA determines that the family is eligible to receive assistance, the PHA will invite the family to attend a briefing in accordance with the policies in Chapter 5.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 1 Revised August 2, 2022

CHAPTER 5

BRIEFINGS AND VOUCHER ISSUANCE

INTRODUCTION
This chapter explains the briefing and voucher issuance process. When a family is determined to be eligible for the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, the PHA must ensure that the family fully understands the way the program operates and the family’s obligations under the program. This is accomplished through both an oral briefing and provision of a briefing packet containing the HUD- required documents and other information the family needs to know in order to lease a unit under the program. Once the family is fully informed of the program’s requirements, the PHA issues the family a voucher. The voucher includes the unit size for which the family qualifies based on the PHA’s subsidy standards, as well as the issue and expiration date of the voucher. The voucher is the document that authorizes the family to begin its search for a unit, and limits the amount of time the family has to successfully locate an acceptable unit.

This chapter describes HUD regulations and PHA policies related to these topics in two parts:

Part I: Briefings and Family Obligations. This part details the program’s requirements for briefing families orally, and for providing written materials describing the program and its requirements. It includes a particular focus on the family’s obligations under the program.

Part II: Subsidy Standards and Voucher Issuance. This part discusses the PHA’s standards for determining how many bedrooms a family of a given composition qualifies for, which in turn affects the amount of subsidy the family can receive. It also discusses the policies that dictate how vouchers are issued, and how long families have to locate a unit.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 2 Revised August 2, 2022 PART I: BRIEFINGS AND FAMILY OBLIGATIONS
5-I.A. OVERVIEW
HUD regulations require the PHA to conduct mandatory briefings for applicant families who qualify for a voucher. The briefing provides a broad description of owner and family responsibilities, explains the PHA’s procedures, and includes instructions on how to lease a unit. This part describes how oral briefings will be conducted, specifies what written information will be provided to families, and lists the family’s obligations under the program.
5-I.B. BRIEFING [24 CFR 982.301]
Notification of Briefing
Prior to issuance of a voucher, the PHA must give the family an oral briefing and provide the family with a briefing packet containing written information about the program. Families may be briefed in individual face-to-face meetings, through group briefing sessions, or via remote briefing sessions.

PHA Policy
Families will be notified of their eligibility for assistance at the time they are invited to a briefing. The notice will be sent by first class mail and/or will be sent via the online applicant portal
The notice will advise the family of the type of briefing, who is required to be present at the briefing, and the date and time of the briefing. The notice will also inform the family of any additional requirements for in-person or remote briefings as addressed in relevant policy elsewhere in this section.

If the notice is returned by the post office with no forwarding address, the applicant will be denied and their name will not be placed back on the waiting list. If the notice is returned by the post office with a forwarding address, the notice will be resent to the address indicated.

In-Person Briefings
At the briefing, the PHA must ensure effective communication in accordance with Section 504 requirements (Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973) and ensure that the briefing site is accessible to individuals with disabilities. For a more thorough discussion of accessibility requirements, refer to Chapter 2.

PHA Policy
In-person briefings will generally be conducted in group meetings. At the family’s written request, the PHA may provide an individual briefing.

All adult household members are required to attend the briefing.

Families that attend group briefings and still need individual assistance will be referred to an appropriate PHA staff person.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 3 Revised August 2, 2022 Briefings will be conducted in English. For limited English proficient (LEP) applicants, the PHA will provide interpretation services in accordance with the PHA’s LEP plan (See Chapter 2).

Attendance
PHA Policy
Applicants who fail to attend a scheduled in-person briefing will be scheduled for another briefing automatically. The PHA will notify the family of the date and time of the second scheduled briefing. Applicants who fail to attend two scheduled briefings, without prior PHA approval, will be denied assistance (see Chapter 3).

Remote Briefings [Notice PIH 2020-32]
Remote briefings may be conducted over the phone, via video conferencing, or through other virtual platforms.

PHA Policy
The PHA has the sole discretion to require that briefings be conducted remotely in case of local, state, or national physical distancing orders, and in cases of inclement weather or natural disaster. If the PHA schedules a remote briefing, the PHA will conduct a face-to-face briefing upon request of the applicant as a reasonable accommodation for a person with a disability if safety and health concerns can be reasonably addressed.

In addition, the PHA will conduct a briefing remotely upon request of the applicant as a reasonable accommodation for a person with a disability, if an applicant does not have childcare or transportation that would enable them to attend the briefing, or if the applicant believes an in- person briefing would create an undue health risk. The PHA will consider other reasonable requests for a remote briefing on a case-by-case basis.

Accessibility Requirements for Persons with Disabilities and LEP Individuals As with in-person briefings, the platform for conducting remote briefings must be accessible and the briefing conducted in accordance with Section 504 and accessibility requirements. This includes ensuring any information, websites, emails, digital notifications, and other virtual platforms are accessible for persons with vision, hearing, and other disabilities. Further, providing effective communication in a digital context may require the use of individualized auxiliary aids or services, such as audio description, captioning, sign language and other types of interpreters, keyboard accessibility, accessible documents, screen reader support, and transcripts. Auxiliary aids or services must be provided in accessible formats, in a timely manner, and in such a way to protect the privacy and independence of the individual.

If no method of conducting a remote briefing is available that appropriately accommodates an individual’s disability, the PHA may not hold against the individual his or her inability to participate in the remote briefing, and the PHA should consider whether postponing the remote briefing to a later date is appropriate or whether there is a suitable alternative.

Due to the individualized nature of disability, the appropriate auxiliary aid or service necessary, or reasonable accommodation, will depend on the specific circumstances.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 4 Revised August 2, 2022 Limited English Proficiency (LEP) requirements also apply to remote briefings, including the use of interpretation services and document translation. See Chapter 2 for a more thorough discussion of accessibility and LEP requirements, all of which apply in the context of remote briefings.

Conducting Remote Briefings
The PHA must ensure that the lack of technology or inability to use technology for remote briefings does not pose a disadvantage to families that may not be apparent to the PHA. The PHA must ensure that the family has appropriate technological access in order to fully participate in the remote briefing.

PHA Policy
At least 10 business days prior to scheduling the remote briefing, the PHA will provide written notification via first class mail, via email, and/or via the online applicant portal to families participating in the briefing to advise of technological requirements and to request the family notify the PHA of any known barriers. If any family does not respond within five business days, or if the written notification is returned by the post office or the email is rejected, the PHA will contact the family by telephone to identify potential technological barriers and to determine which technology resources are accessible to the family. The PHA will resolve any barriers using the guidance in Section 6 of Notice PIH 2020-32, including offering the family the opportunity to attend an in-person briefing or have a one-on-one briefing over the phone, as appropriate.

The PHA will conduct remote briefings via a video conferencing platform when available. If applicants are unable to adequately access the video conferencing platform, the briefing will be conducted by telephone conferencing call-in. If the family is unable to adequately access the telephone conferencing call-in, the remote briefing will be postponed, and an in-person alternative or one-on-one briefing over the phone will be provided.

The PHA will provide login information and/or conferencing call-in information and an electronic copy of the briefing packet via email, or via the online applicant portal at least five business days before the briefing. The PHA will provide a paper copy of the briefing packet upon family request and may reschedule the briefing to allow adequate time for the family to receive the physical briefing packet.

The PHA will ensure that all electronic information stored or transmitted as part of the briefing meets the requirements for accessibility for persons with disabilities and persons with LEP, and is secure, including ensuring personally identifiable information (PII) is protected.

The PHA will ensure that families who participate in remote briefings have the opportunity to ask questions as part of the briefing.

If families lose connectivity during any remote briefing or otherwise feel they were unable to access information presented during the briefing, the family may request a one-on-one briefing over the phone or in person with the PHA.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 5 Revised August 2, 2022 Oral Briefing [24 CFR 982.301(a)]
Each briefing must provide information on the following subjects:
 How the Housing Choice Voucher program works;
 Family and owner responsibilities;
 Where the family can lease a unit, including renting a unit inside or outside the PHA’s jurisdiction;  An explanation of how portability works. The PHA may not discourage the family from choosing to live anywhere in the PHA jurisdiction or outside the PHA jurisdiction under portability, unless otherwise expressly authorized by statute, regulation, PIH Notice, or court order;  The PHA must inform the family of how portability may affect the family’s assistance through screening, subsidy standards, payment standards, and any other elements of the portability process which may affect the family’s assistance;
 The advantages of areas that do not have a high concentration of low-income families; and  For families receiving welfare-to-work vouchers, a description of any local obligations of a welfare- to-work family and an explanation that failure to meet the obligations is grounds for denial of admission or termination of assistance.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 6 Revised August 2, 2022 Briefing Packet [24 CFR 982.301(b)]
Documents and information provided in the briefing packet must include the following:
 The term of the voucher, voucher suspensions, and the PHA’s policies on any extensions of the term.

If the PHA allows extensions, the packet must explain how the family can request an extension.  A description of the method used to calculate the housing assistance payment for a family, including how the PHA determines the payment standard for a family, how the PHA determines total tenant payment for a family, and information on the payment standard and utility allowance schedule.  An explanation of how the PHA determines the maximum allowable rent for an assisted unit.  Where the family may lease a unit and an explanation of how portability works, including information on how portability may affect the family’s assistance through screening, subsidy standards, payment standards, and any other elements of the portability process that may affect the family’s assistance.
 The HUD-required tenancy addendum, which must be included in the lease.  The form the family must use to request approval of tenancy, and a description of the procedure for requesting approval for a tenancy.
 A statement of the PHA policy on providing information about families to prospective owners.  The PHA subsidy standards including when and how exceptions are made.  Materials (e.g., brochures) on how to select a unit and any additional information on selecting a unit that HUD provides.
 Information on federal, state, and local equal opportunity laws and a copy of the housing discrimination complaint form.
 A list of landlords known to the PHA who may be willing to lease a unit to the family or other resources (e.g., newspapers, organizations, online search tools) known to the PHA that may assist the family in locating a unit. PHAs must ensure that the list of landlords or other resources covers areas outside of poverty or minority concentration.
 Notice that if the family includes a person with disabilities, the family may request a list of available accessible units known to the PHA.
 The family obligations under the program, including any obligations of a welfare-to-work family.  The grounds on which the PHA may terminate assistance for a participant family because of family action or failure to act.
 PHA informal hearing procedures including when the PHA is required to offer a participant family the opportunity for an informal hearing, and how to request the hearing.  An explanation of the advantages of moving to an area that does not have a high concentration of low-income families.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 7 Revised August 2, 2022 If the PHA is located in a metropolitan area, the following additional information must be included in the briefing packet in order to receive full points under SEMAP Indicator 7, Expanding Housing Opportunities [24 CFR 985.3(g)]:
 Maps showing areas with housing opportunities outside areas of poverty or minority concentration, both within its jurisdiction and its neighboring jurisdiction  Information about the characteristics of these areas including job opportunities, schools, transportation, and other services
 An explanation of how portability works, including a list of portability contact persons for neighboring PHAs with names, addresses, and telephone numbers 
Additional Items to Be Included in the Briefing Packet
In addition to items required by the regulations, PHAs may wish to include supplemental materials to help explain the program to both participants and owners [HCV GB p. 8-7, Notice PIH 2017-12].

PHA Policy
The PHA will provide the following additional materials in the briefing packet:

The HUD pamphlet on lead-based paint entitled Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home
Information on how to fill out and file a housing discrimination complaint form The form HUD-5380 domestic violence certification form and the form HUD-5382 notice of occupancy rights, which contains information on VAWA protections for victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking “Is Fraud Worth It?” (form HUD-1141-OIG), which explains the types of actions a family must avoid and the penalties for program abuse
“What You Should Know about EIV,” a guide to the Enterprise Income Verification (EIV) s ystem published by HUD as an attachment to Notice PIH 2017-12 Packet Page 115 of 1050Attachment 2 Page 87 of 487

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 8 Revised August 2, 2022 5-I.C. FAMILY OBLIGATIONS
Obligations of the family are described in the housing choice voucher (HCV) regulations and on the voucher itself. These obligations include responsibilities the family is required to fulfill, as well as prohibited actions. The PHA must inform families of these obligations during the oral briefing, and the same information must be included in the briefing packet. When the family’s unit is approved and the HAP contract is executed, the family must meet those obligations in order to continue participating in the program. Violation of any family obligation may result in termination of assistance, as described in Chapter 12.

Time Frames for Reporting Changes Required by Family Obligations PHA Policy
Unless otherwise noted below, when family obligations require the family to respond to a request or notify the PHA of a change, notifying the PHA of the request or change within 10 business days is considered prompt notice.

When a family is required to provide notice to the PHA, the notice must be in writing.

Family Obligations [24 CFR 982.551]
The family obligations of the voucher are listed as follows:
 The family must supply any information that the PHA or HUD determines to be necessary, including submission of required evidence of citizenship or eligible immigration status.  The family must supply any information requested by the PHA or HUD for use in a regularly scheduled reexamination or interim reexamination of family income and composition.  The family must disclose and verify social security numbers and sign and submit consent forms for obtaining information.
 Any information supplied by the family must be true and complete.  The family is responsible for any Housing Quality Standards (HQS) breach by the family caused by failure to pay tenant-provided utilities or appliances, or damages to the dwelling unit or premises beyond normal wear and tear caused by any member of the household or guest.

PHA Policy
Damages which could be assessed against the security deposit are considered damages beyond normal wear.
 The family must allow the PHA to inspect the unit at reasonable times and after reasonable notice, as described in Chapter 8 of this plan.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 9 Revised August 2, 2022  The family must not commit any serious or repeated violation of the lease.

PHA Policy
The PHA will determine if a family has committed serious or repeated violations of the lease based on available evidence, including but not limited to, a court-ordered eviction or an owner’s notice to evict, police reports, and affidavits from the owner, neighbors, or other credible parties with direct knowledge.

Serious and repeated lease violations will include, but not be limited to, nonpayment of rent, disturbance of neighbors, destruction of property, living or housekeeping habits that cause damage to the unit or premises, and criminal activity. Generally, the criterion to be used will be whether or not the reason for the eviction was the fault of the tenant or guests. Any incidents of, or criminal activity related to, domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking will not be construed as serious or repeated lease violations by the victim [24 CFR 5.2005(c)(1)].  The family must notify the PHA and the owner before moving out of the unit or terminating the lease.

PHA Policy
The family must comply with lease requirements regarding written notice to the owner. The family must provide written notice to the PHA at the same time the owner is notified.  The family must promptly give the PHA a copy of any owner eviction notice.  The family must use the assisted unit for residence by the family. The unit must be the family’s only residence.
 The composition of the assisted family residing in the unit must be approved by the PHA. The family must promptly notify the PHA in writing of the birth, adoption, or court-awarded custody of a child. The family must request PHA approval to add any other family member as an occupant of the unit.

PHA Policy
The request to add a family member must be submitted in writing and approved prior to the person moving into the unit. The PHA will consider approving the addition of the following:
o The minor child of an existing household member through birth, adoption, or court- awarded custody.
o A parent or adult child of the head of household, co-head, or spouse who is elderly or disabled and whose essential care is being provided by the head of household, co-head, or spouse.
o A spouse or domestic partner of the head of household and their minor custodial children.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 10 Revised August 2, 2022 o Foster children or foster adults only if it is expected to be a long-term arrangement. A long-term arrangement is one that is expected to be six months or longer.  Emergency care will only be eligible if adding the foster child or foster adult will not increase the occupancy standard or violate HQS space standards as no additional bedrooms will be granted.

The PHA will determine eligibility of the new member in accordance with the policies in Chapter 3.
 The family must promptly notify the PHA in writing if any family member no longer lives in the unit.
 If the PHA has given approval, a foster child or a live-in aide may reside in the unit. The PHA has the discretion to adopt reasonable policies concerning residency by a foster child or a live-in aide, and to define when PHA consent may be given or denied. For policies related to the request and approval/disapproval of foster children, foster adults, and live-in aides, see Chapter 3 (sections I.K and I.M), and Chapter 11 (section II.B).
 The family must not sublease the unit, assign the lease, or transfer the unit.

PHA Policy
Subleasing includes receiving payment to cover rent and utility costs by a person living in the unit who is not listed as a family member.
 The family must supply any information requested by the PHA to verify that the family is living in the unit or information related to family absence from the unit.  The family must promptly notify the PHA when the family is absent from the unit.

PHA Policy
Notice is required under this provision only when all family members will be absent from the unit for an extended period. An extended period is defined as any period greater than 14 calendar days. Written notice must be provided to the PHA at the start of the extended absence.  The family must pay utility bills and provide and maintain any appliances that the owner is not required to provide under the lease [Form HUD-52646, Voucher].  The family must not own or have any interest in the unit, (other than in a cooperative and owners of a manufactured home leasing a manufactured home space).  Family members must not commit fraud, bribery, or any other corrupt or criminal act in connection with the program. (See Chapter 14, Program Integrity for additional information).  Family members must not engage in drug-related criminal activity or violent criminal activity or other criminal activity that threatens the health, safety or right to peaceful enjoyment of other residents and persons residing in the immediate vicinity of the premises. See Chapter 12 for HUD and PHA policies related to drug-related and violent criminal activity.  Members of the household must not engage in abuse of alcohol in a way that threatens the health, safety or right to peaceful enjoyment of the other residents and persons residing in the immediate Packet Page 118 of 1050Attachment 2 Page 90 of 487

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 11 Revised August 2, 2022 vicinity of the premises. See Chapter 12 for a discussion of HUD and PHA policies related to alcohol abuse.
 An assisted family or member of the family must not receive HCV program assistance while receiving another housing subsidy, for the same unit or a different unit under any other federal, state, or local housing assistance program.
 A family must not receive HCV program assistance while residing in a unit owned by a parent, child, grandparent, grandchild, sister, or brother of any member of the family, unless the PHA has determined (and has notified the owner and the family of such determination) that approving rental of the unit, notwithstanding such relationship, would provide reasonable accommodation for a family member who is a person with disabilities. [Form HUD-52646, Voucher]

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 12 Revised August 2, 2022 PART II: SUBSIDY STANDARDS AND VOUCHER ISSUANCE
5-II.A. OVERVIEW
The PHA must establish subsidy standards that determine the number of bedrooms needed for families of different sizes and compositions. This part presents the policies that will be used to determine the family unit size (also known as the voucher size) a particular family should receive, and the policies that govern making exceptions to those standards. The PHA must also establish policies related to the issuance of the voucher, to the voucher term, and to any extensions of the voucher term. 5-II.B. DETERMINING FAMILY UNIT (VOUCHER) SIZE [24 CFR 982.402] For each family, the PHA determines the appropriate number of bedrooms under the PHA subsidy standards and enters the family unit size on the voucher that is issued to the family. The family unit size does not dictate the size of unit the family must actually lease, nor does it determine who within a household will share a bedroom/sleeping room.

The following requirements apply when the PHA determines family unit size:
 The subsidy standards must provide for the smallest number of bedrooms needed to house a family without overcrowding.
 The subsidy standards must be consistent with space requirements under the housing quality standards.
 The subsidy standards must be applied consistently for all families of like size and composition.  A child who is temporarily away from the home because of placement in foster care is considered a member of the family in determining the family unit size.  A family that consists of a pregnant woman (with no other persons) must be treated as a two-person family.
 Any live-in aide (approved by the PHA to reside in the unit to care for a family member who is disabled or is at least 50 years of age) must be counted in determining the family unit size;  Unless a live-in-aide resides with a family, the family unit size for any family consisting of a single person must be either a zero- or one-bedroom unit, as determined under the PHA subsidy standards.

PHA Policy
The PHA will assign one bedroom for each two persons within the household, except in the following circumstances:

Live-in aides and their family will be allocated a separate bedroom.

Single person families will be allocated one bedroom.

Foster children of the opposite sex will not be required to share a bedroom unless both children are under the age of five and will not be required to share a bedroom with an adult.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 13 Revised August 2, 2022 The PHA will reference the following chart in determining the appropriate voucher size for a family:

Voucher Size Persons in Household
(Minimum – Maximum)
1 Bedroom 1-2
2 Bedrooms 3-4
3 Bedrooms 5-6
4 Bedrooms 7-8
5 Bedrooms 9-10
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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 14 Revised August 2, 2022 5-II.C. EXCEPTIONS TO SUBSIDY STANDARDS
In determining family unit size for a particular family, the PHA may grant an exception to its established subsidy standards if the PHA determines that the exception is justified by the age, sex, health, handicap, or relationship of family members or other personal circumstances [24 CFR 982.402(b)(8)].

Reasons may include, but are not limited to:
 A need for an additional bedroom for medical equipment  A need for a separate bedroom for reasons related to a family member’s disability, medical or health condition
For a single person who is not elderly, disabled, or a remaining family member, an exception cannot override the regulatory limit of a zero or one bedroom [24 CFR 982.402(b)(8)].

PHA Policy
The PHA will consider granting an exception for any of the reasons specified in the regulation:
the age, sex, health, handicap, or relationship of family members or other personal circumstances.

The family must request any exception to the subsidy standards in writing. The request must explain the need or justification for a larger family unit size and must include appropriate documentation. Requests based on health-related reasons must be verified by a knowledgeable professional source (e.g., doctor or health professional), unless the disability and the disability– related request for accommodation is readily apparent or otherwise known. The family’s continued need for an additional bedroom due to special medical equipment must be re-verified at annual reexamination.

The PHA will notify the family of its determination within 10 business days of receiving the family’s request. If a participant family’s request is denied, the notice will inform the family of their right to request an informal hearing.
5-II.D. VOUCHER ISSUANCE [24 CFR 982.302]
When a family is selected from the waiting list (or as a special admission as described in Chapter 4), or when a participant family wants to move to another unit, the PHA issues a Housing Choice Voucher, form HUD-52646. This chapter deals only with voucher issuance for applicants. For voucher issuance associated with moves of program participants, please refer to Chapter 10.

The voucher is the family’s authorization to search for housing. It specifies the unit size for which the family qualifies, and includes both the date of voucher issuance and date of expiration. It contains a brief description of how the program works and explains the family obligations under the program. The voucher is evidence that the PHA has determined the family to be eligible for the program, and that the PHA expects to have money available to subsidize the family if the family finds an approvable unit.

However, the PHA does not have any liability to any party by the issuance of the voucher, and the voucher does not give the family any right to participate in the PHA’s housing choice voucher program [Voucher, form HUD-52646]
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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 15 Revised August 2, 2022 A voucher can be issued to an applicant family only after the PHA has determined that the family is eligible for the program based on verification of information received within the 60 days prior to issuance [24 CFR 982.201(e)] and after the family has attended an oral briefing [HCV 8-1].

PHA Policy
Vouchers will be issued to eligible applicants immediately following the mandatory briefing.

The PHA should have sufficient funds to house an applicant before issuing a voucher. If funds are insufficient to house the family at the top of the waiting list, the PHA must wait until it has adequate funds before it calls another family from the list [HCV GB p. 8-10].

PHA Policy
Prior to issuing any vouchers, the PHA will determine whether it has sufficient funding in accordance with the policies in Part VIII of Chapter 16.

If the PHA determines that there is insufficient funding after a voucher has been issued, the PHA may rescind the voucher and place the affected family back on the waiting list. 5-II.E. VOUCHER TERM AND EXTENSIONS
Voucher Term [24 CFR 982.303]
The initial term of a voucher must be at least 60 calendar days. The initial term must be stated on the voucher [24 CFR 982.303(a)].

PHA Policy
The initial voucher term will be 90 calendar days.

The family must submit a Request for Tenancy Approval and proposed lease within the 90-day period unless the PHA grants an extension.

Extensions of Voucher Term [24 CFR 982.303(b)]
The PHA has the authority to grant extensions of search time, to specify the length of an extension, and to determine the circumstances under which extensions will be granted. There is no limit on the number of extensions that the PHA can approve. Discretionary policies related to extension and expiration of search time must be described in the PHA’s administrative plan [24 CFR 982.54].

PHAs must approve additional search time if needed as a reasonable accommodation to make the program accessible to and usable by a person with disabilities. The extension period must be reasonable for the purpose.

The family must be notified in writing of the PHA’s decision to approve or deny an extension. The PHA’s decision to deny a request for an extension of the voucher term is not subject to informal review [24 CFR 982.554(c)(4)].

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 16 Revised August 2, 2022 PHA Policy
The PHA will approve one 30-day extension upon written request from the family.

The PHA will approve additional extensions up to 60 days for a total of 180 days only if it is necessary as a reasonable accommodation for a person with disabilities.

Any request for an additional extension must include the reason(s) an additional extension is necessary. The PHA may require the family to provide documentation to support the request or obtain verification from a qualified third party.

All requests for extensions to the voucher term must be made in writing and submitted to the PHA prior to the expiration date of the voucher (or extended term of the voucher).

The PHA will decide whether to approve or deny an extension request within 10 business days of the date the request is received and will immediately provide the family written notice of its decision.

Suspensions of Voucher Term [24 CFR 982.303(c)]
The PHA must provide for suspension of the initial or any extended term of the voucher from the date the family submits a request for PHA approval of the tenancy until the date the PHA notifies the family in writing whether the request has been approved or denied.

Expiration of Voucher Term
Once a family’s housing choice voucher term (including any extensions) expires, the family is no longer eligible to search for housing under the program. If the family still wishes to receive assistance, the PHA may require that the family reapply, or may place the family on the waiting list with a new application date but without requiring reapplication. Such a family does not become ineligible for the program on the grounds that it was unable to locate a unit before the voucher expired [HCV GB p. 8-13].

PHA Policy
If an applicant family’s voucher term or extension expires before the family has turned in a Request for Tenancy Approval for a unit for which they qualify, the PHA will require the family to reapply for assistance
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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 1 Revised August 2, 2022

CHAPTER 6

INCOME AND SUBSIDY DETERMINATIONS
[24 CFR Part 5, Subparts E and F; 24 CFR 982]

INTRODUCTION
A family’s income determines eligibility for assistance and is also used to calculate the family’s payment and the PHA’s subsidy. The PHA will use the policies and methods described in this chapter to ensure that only eligible families receive assistance and that no family pays more or less than its obligation under the regulations. This chapter describes HUD regulations and PHA policies related to these topics in three parts as follows:
 Part I: Annual Income. HUD regulations specify the sources of income to include and exclude to arrive at a family’s annual income. These requirements and PHA policies for calculating annual income are found in Part I.
 Part II: Adjusted Income. Once annual income has been established HUD regulations require the PHA to subtract from annual income any of five mandatory deductions for which a family qualifies.

These requirements and PHA policies for calculating adjusted income are found in Part II.  Part III: Calculating Family Share and PHA Subsidy. This part describes the statutory formula for calculating total tenant payment (TTP), the use of utility allowances, and the methodology for determining PHA subsidy and required family payment.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 2 Revised August 2, 2022 PART I: ANNUAL INCOME
6-I.A. OVERVIEW
The general regulatory definition of annual income shown below is from 24 CFR 5.609.

5.609 Annual income.
(a) Annual income means all amounts, monetary or not, which:
(1) Go to, or on behalf of, the family head or spouse (even if temporarily absent) or to any other family member; or
(2) Are anticipated to be received from a source outside the family during the 12-month period following admission or annual reexamination effective date; and (3) Which are not specifically excluded in paragraph [5.609(c)]. (4) Annual income also means amounts derived (during the 12-month period) from assets to which any member of the family has access.

In addition to this general definition, HUD regulations establish policies for treating specific types of income and assets. The full texts of those portions of the regulations are provided in exhibits at the end of this chapter as follows:
 Annual Income Inclusions (Exhibit 6-1)
 Annual Income Exclusions (Exhibit 6-2)
 Treatment of Family Assets (Exhibit 6-3)
 Earned Income Disallowance for Persons with Disabilities (Exhibit 6-4)  The Effect of Welfare Benefit Reduction (Exhibit 6-5) Sections 6-I.B and 6-I.C discuss general requirements and methods for calculating annual income. The rest of this section describes how each source of income is treated for the purposes of determining annual income. HUD regulations present income inclusions and exclusions separately [24 CFR 5.609(b) and 24 CFR 5.609(c)]. In this plan, however, the discussions of income inclusions and exclusions are integrated b y topic (e.g., all policies affecting earned income are discussed together in section 6-I.D).

Verification requirements for annual income are discussed in Chapter 7.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 3 Revised August 2, 2022 6-I.B. HOUSEHOLD COMPOSITION AND INCOME
Income received by all family members must be counted unless specifically excluded by the regulations.

It is the responsibility of the head of household to report changes in family composition. The rules on which sources of income are counted vary somewhat by family member. The chart below summarizes how family composition affects income determinations.

Summary of Income Included and Excluded by Person
Live-in aides Income from all sources is excluded [24 CFR 5.609(c)(5)].

Foster child or foster adult Income from all sources is excluded [24 CFR 5.609(c)(2)].

Head, spouse, or cohead
Other adult family members
All sources of income not specifically excluded by the
regulations are included.

Children under 18 years of age Employment income is excluded [24 CFR 5.609(c)(1)].

All other sources of income, except those specifically
excluded by the regulations, are included.

Full-time students 18 years of
age or older (not head, spouse,
or cohead)
Employment income above $480/year is excluded [24 CFR

5.609(c)(11)].

All other sources of income, except those specifically
excluded by the regulations, are included.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 4 Revised August 2, 2022 Temporarily Absent Family Members
The income of family members approved to live in the unit will be counted, even if the family member is temporarily absent from the unit [HCV GB, p. 5-18].

PHA Policy
Generally, an individual who is or is expected to be absent from the assisted unit for 60 consecutive days or less is considered temporarily absent and continues to be considered a family member. Generally, an individual who is or is expected to be absent from the assisted unit for more than 60 consecutive days is considered permanently absent and no longer a family member.

Exceptions to this general policy are discussed below.

Absences Due to Placement in Foster Care
Children temporarily absent from the home as a result of placement in foster care are considered members of the family [24 CFR 5.403].

Absent Head, Spouse, or Cohead
PHA Policy
An employed head, spouse, or cohead absent from the unit more than 180 consecutive days due to employment will continue to be considered a family member.

Family Members Permanently Confined for Medical Reasons If a family member is confined to a nursing home or hospital on a permanent basis, that person is no longer considered a family member and the income of that person is not counted [HCV GB, p. 5-22].

PHA Policy
An individual confined to a nursing home or hospital on a permanent basis is not considered a family member.

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 5 Revised August 2, 2022 will be considered permanently absent. If the family certifies that the family member is confined on a permanent basis, they may present, and the PHA will consider, any additional documentation or evidence.

When an individual who has been counted as a family member is determined permanently absent, the family is eligible for the medical expense deduction only if the remaining head, spouse, or cohead qualifies as an elderly person or a person with disabilities.

Joint Custody of Dependents
PHA Policy
Dependents that are subject to a joint custody arrangement will be considered a member of the family, if they live with the applicant or participant family 51 percent or more of the time, which is defined as 183 days of the year or more.

Caretakers for a Child
PHA Policy
The approval of a caretaker is at the owner and PHA’s discretion and subject to the owner and PHA’s screening criteria. If neither a parent nor a designated guardian remains in a household receiving HCV assistance, the PHA will take the following actions. (1) If a responsible agency has determined that another adult is to be brought into the assisted unit to care for a child for an indefinite period, the designated caretaker will not be considered a family member until a determination of custody or legal guardianship is made. (2) If a caretaker has assumed responsibility for a child without the involvement of a responsible agency or formal assignment of custody or legal guardianship, the caretaker will be treated as a visitor for 90 days. After the 90 days has elapsed, the caretaker will be considered a family member unless information is provided that would confirm that the caretaker’s role is temporary. In such cases the PHA will extend the caretaker’s status as an eligible visitor. (3) At any time that custody or guardianship legally has been awarded to a caretaker, the housing choice voucher will be transferred to the caretaker.
(4) During any period that a caretaker is considered a visitor, the income of the caretaker is not counted in annual income and the caretaker does not qualify the family for any deductions from income.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 6 Revised August 2, 2022 6-I.C. ANTICIPATING ANNUAL INCOME
The PHA is required to count all income “anticipated to be received from a source outside the family during the 12-month period following admission or annual reexamination effective date” [24 CFR

5.609(a)(2)]. Policies related to anticipating annual income are provided below.

Basis of Annual Income Projection
The PHA generally will use current circumstances to determine anticipated income for the coming 12- month period. HUD authorizes the PHA to use other than current circumstances to anticipate income when:
 An imminent change in circumstances is expected [HCV GB, p. 5-17]  It is not feasible to anticipate a level of income over a 12-month period (e.g., seasonal, or cyclic income) [24 CFR 5.609(d)]
 The PHA believes that past income is the best available indicator of expected future income [24 CFR

5.609(d)]
PHAs are required to use HUD’s Enterprise Income Verification (EIV) system in its entirety as a third party source to verify employment and income information, and to reduce administrative subsidy payment errors in accordance with HUD administrative guidance [24 CFR 5.233(a)(2)].

HUD allows PHAs to use tenant-provided documents (pay stubs) to project income once EIV data has been received in such cases where the family does not dispute the EIV employer data and where the PHA does not determine it is necessary to obtain additional third-party data.

PHA Policy
When EIV is obtained and the family does not dispute the EIV employer data, the PHA will use current tenant-provided documents to project annual income. When the tenant-provided documents are pay stubs, the PHA will make every effort to obtain current and consecutive pay stubs dated within the last 60 days.

The PHA will obtain written and/or oral third-party verification in accordance with the verification requirements and policy in Chapter 7 in the following cases:

If EIV or other UIV data is not available,
If the family disputes the accuracy of the EIV employer data, and/or If the PHA determines additional information is needed.

In such cases, the PHA will review and analyze current data to anticipate annual income. In all cases, the family file will be documented with a clear record of the reason for the decision, and a clear audit trail will be left as to how the PHA annualized projected income.

When the PHA cannot readily anticipate income based upon current circumstances (e.g., in the case of seasonal employment, unstable working hours, or suspected fraud), the PHA will review and analyze historical data for patterns of employment, paid benefits, and receipt of other income and use the results of this analysis to establish annual income.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 7 Revised August 2, 2022 Any time current circumstances are not used to project annual income, a clear rationale for the decision will be documented in the file. In all such cases the family may present information and documentation to the PHA to show why the historic pattern does not represent the family’s anticipated income.

Known Changes in Income
If the PHA verifies an upcoming increase or decrease in income, annual income will be calculated by applying each income amount to the appropriate part of the 12-month period.

Example: An employer reports that a full-time employee who has been receiving $8/hour will begin to receive $8.25/hour in the eighth week after the effective date of the reexamination. In such a case the PHA would calculate annual income as follows: ($8/hour × 40 hours × 7 weeks) + ($8.25 × 40 hours × 45 weeks).

The family may present information that demonstrates that implementing a change before its effective date would create a hardship for the family. In such cases the PHA will calculate annual income using current circumstances and then require an interim reexamination when the change actually occurs. This requirement will be imposed even if the PHA’s policy on reexaminations does not require interim reexaminations for other types of changes.

When tenant-provided third-party documents are used to anticipate annual income, they will be dated within the last 60 days of the reexamination interview date.

Projecting Income
In HUD’s E IV webcast of January 2008, HUD made clear that PHAs are not to use EIV quarterly wages to project annual income.
6-I.D. EARNED INCOME
Types of Earned Income Included in Annual Income
Wages and Related Compensation
The full amount, before any payroll deductions, of wages and salaries, overtime pay, commissions, fees, tips and bonuses, and other compensation for personal services is included in annual income [24 CFR

5.609(b)(1)].

PHA Policy
For persons who regularly receive bonuses or commissions, the PHA will verify and then average amounts received for the two years preceding admission or reexamination. If only a one- year history is available, the PHA will use the prior year amounts. In either case the family may provide, and the PHA will consider, a credible justification for not using this history to anticipate future bonuses or commissions. If a new employee has not yet received any bonuses or commissions, the PHA will count only the amount estimated by the employer. The file will be documented appropriately.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 8 Revised August 2, 2022 Some Types of Military Pay
All regular pay, special pay, and allowances of a member of the Armed Forces are counted [24 CFR

5.609(b)(8)] except for the special pay to a family member serving in the Armed Forces who is exposed to hostile fire [24 CFR 5.609(c)(7)].

Types of Earned Income Not Counted in Annual Income
Temporary, Nonrecurring, or Sporadic Income [24 CFR 5.609(c)(9)] This type of income (including gifts) is not included in annual income. Sporadic income includes temporary payments from the U.S. Census Bureau for employment lasting no longer than 180 days [Notice PIH 2009-19].

PHA Policy
Sporadic income is income that is not received periodically and cannot be reliably predicted.

Sporadic income is also defined temporary, nonrecurring income, including gifts, in which the total of all sources is $1,000 a year or less. Temporary income is defined as lasting no longer than one month and totaling less than $1,000. Nonrecurring income is defined as occurring once or twice per year and totaling less than $1,000. For example, the income of an individual who works occasionally as a handyman would be considered sporadic if future work could not be anticipated and no historic, stable pattern of income existed.

Children’s Earnings
Employment income earned by children (including foster children) under the age of 18 years is not included in annual income [24 CFR 5.609(c)(1)]. (See Eligibility chapter for a definition of foster children.)
Certain Earned Income of Full-Time Students
Earnings in excess of $480 for each full-time student 18 years old or older (except for the head, spouse, or cohead) are not counted [24 CFR 5.609(c)(11)]. To be considered “full-time,” a student must be considered “full-time” by an educational institution with a degree or certificate program [HCV GB, p. 5- 29].

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 9 Revised August 2, 2022 Income of a Live-in Aide
Income earned by a live-in aide, as defined in [24 CFR 5.403], is not included in annual income [24 CFR 5.609(c)(5)]. (See Eligibility chapter for a full discussion of live-in aides.) Income Earned under Certain Federal Programs
Income from some federal programs is specifically excluded from consideration as income [24 CFR

5.609(c)(17)], including:
 Payments to volunteers under the Domestic Volunteer Services Act of 1973 (42 U.S.C. 5044(g), 5058)
 Awards under the federal work-study program (20 U.S.C. 1087 uu)  Payments received from programs funded under Title V of the Older Americans Act of 1985 (42 U.S.C. 3056(f))
 Allowances, earnings, and payments to AmeriCorps participants under the National and Community Service Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12637(d))
 Allowances, earnings, and payments to participants in programs funded under the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C. 2931)
Resident Service Stipend
Amounts received under a resident service stipend are not included in annual income. A resident service stipend is a modest amount (not to exceed $200 per individual per month) received by a resident for performing a service for the PHA or owner, on a part-time basis, that enhances the quality of life in the development. Such services may include, but are not limited to, fire patrol, hall monitoring, lawn maintenance, resident initiatives coordination, and serving as a member of the PHA’s governing board.

No resident may receive more than one such stipend during the same period of time [24 CFR

5.600(c)(8)(iv)].

State and Local Employment Training Programs
Incremental earnings and benefits to any family member resulting from participation in qualifying state or local employment training programs (including training programs not affiliated with a local government) and training of a family member as resident management staff are excluded from annual income. Amounts excluded by this provision must be received under employment training programs with clearly defined goals and objectives and are excluded only for the period during which the family member participates in the training program [24 CFR 5.609(c)(8)(v)].

PHA Policy
The PHA defines training program as “a learning process with goals and objectives, generally having a variety of components, and taking place in a series of sessions over a period of time. It is designed to lead to a higher level of proficiency, and it enhances the individual’s ability to obtain employment. It may have performance standards to measure proficiency. Training may include but is not limited to: (1) classroom training in a specific occupational skill, (2) on-the-job training with wages subsidized by the program, or (3) basic education” [expired Notice PIH 98- 2, p. 3].

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 10 Revised August 2, 2022 The PHA defines incremental earnings and benefits as the difference between: (1) the total amount of welfare assistance and earnings of a family member prior to enrollment in a training program, and (2) the total amount of welfare assistance and earnings of the family member after enrollment in the program [expired Notice PIH 98-2, pp. 3–4].

In calculating the incremental difference, the PHA will use as the pre-enrollment income the total annualized amount of the family member’s welfare assistance and earnings reported on the family’s most recently completed HUD-50058.

End of participation in a training program must be reported in accordance with the PHA's interim reporting requirements.

HUD-Funded Training Programs
Amounts received under training programs funded in whole or in part by HUD [24 CFR 5.609(c)(8)(i)] are excluded from annual income. Eligible sources of funding for the training include operating subsidy, Section 8 administrative fees, and modernization, Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME program, and other grant funds received from HUD.

PHA Policy
To qualify as a training program, the program must meet the definition of training program provided above for state and local employment training programs.

Earned Income Tax Credit
Earned income tax credit (EITC) refund payments received on or after January 1, 1991 (26 U.S.C. 32(j)), are excluded from annual income [24 CFR 5.609(c)(17)]. Although many families receive the EITC annually when they file taxes, an EITC can also be received throughout the year. The prorated share of the annual EITC is included in the employee’s payroll check.

Earned Income Disallowance
The earned income disallowance for persons with disabilities is discussed in section 6-I.E below.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 11 Revised August 2, 2022 6-I.E. EARNED INCOME DISALLOWANCE FOR PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES [24 CFR 5.617; Streamlining Final Rule (SFR) Federal Register 3/8/16] The earned income disallowance (EID) encourages people with disabilities to enter the work force by not including the full value of increases in earned income for a period of time. The full text of 24 CFR

5.617 is included as Exhibit 6-4 at the end of this chapter. Eligibility criteria and limitations on the disallowance are summarized below.

Eligibility
This disallowance applies only to individuals in families already participating in the HCV program (not at initial examination). To qualify, the family must experience an increase in annual income that is the result of one of the following events:
 Employment of a family member who is a person with disabilities and who was previously unemployed for one or more years prior to employment. Previously unemployed includes a person who annually has earned not more than the minimum wage applicable to the community multiplied by 500 hours. The applicable minimum wage is the federal minimum wage unless there is a higher state or local minimum wage.
 Increased earnings by a family member who is a person with disabilities and whose earnings increase during participation in an economic self-sufficiency or job-training program. A self- sufficiency program includes a program designed to encourage, assist, train, or facilitate the economic independence of HUD-assisted families or to provide work to such families [24 CFR

5.603(b)].
 New employment or increased earnings by a family member who is a person with disabilities and who has received benefits or services under Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or any other state program funded under Part A of Title IV of the Social Security Act within the past six months. If the benefits are received in the form of monthly maintenance, there is no minimum amount. If the benefits or services are received in a form other than monthly maintenance, such as one-time payments, wage subsidies, or transportation assistance, the total amount received over the six-month period must be at least $500.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 12 Revised August 2, 2022 Calculation of the Disallowance
Calculation of the earned income disallowance for an eligible member of a qualified family begins with a comparison of the member’s current income with his or her “baseline income.” The family member’s baseline income is his or her income immediately prior to qualifying for the EID. The family member’s baseline income remains constant throughout the period that he or she is participating in the EID.

Calculation Method
Initial 12-Month Exclusion
During the initial exclusion period of 12 consecutive months, the full amount (100 percent) of any increase in income attributable to new employment or increased earnings is excluded.

PHA Policy
The initial EID exclusion period will begin on the first of the month following the date an eligible member of a qualified family is first employed or first experiences an increase in earnings.

Second 12-Month Exclusion
During the second exclusion period of 12 consecutive months, the PHA must exclude at least 50 percent of any increase in income attributable to employment or increased earnings.

PHA Policy
During the second 12-month exclusion period, the PHA will exclude 50 percent of any increase in income attributable to new employment or increased earnings.

Lifetime Limitation
The EID has a two-year (24-month) lifetime maximum. The two-year eligibility period begins at the same time that the initial exclusion period begins and ends 24 months later. During the 24-month period, an individual remains eligible for EID even if they begin to receive assistance from a different housing agency, move between public housing and Section 8 assistance, or have breaks in assistance.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 13 Revised August 2, 2022 6-I.F. BUSINESS INCOME [24 CFR 5.609(b)(2)]
Annual income includes “the net income from the operation of a business or profession. Expenditures for business expansion or amortization of capital indebtedness shall not be used as deductions in determining net income. An allowance for depreciation of assets used in a business or profession may be deducted, based on straight line depreciation, as provided in Internal Revenue Service regulations. Any withdrawal of cash or assets from the operation of a business or profession will be included in income, except to the extent the withdrawal is reimbursement of cash or assets invested in the operation by the family” [24 CFR 5.609(b)(2)].

Business Expenses
Net income is “gross income less business expense” [HCV GB, p. 5-19].

PHA Policy
To determine business expenses that may be deducted from gross income, the PHA will use current applicable Internal Revenue Service (IRS) rules for determining allowable business expenses [see IRS Publication 535], unless a topic is addressed by HUD regulations or guidance as described below.

Business Expansion
HUD regulations do not permit the PHA to deduct from gross income expenses for business expansion.

PHA Policy
Business expansion is defined as any capital expenditures made to add new business activities, to expand current facilities, or to operate the business in additional locations. For example, purchase of a street sweeper by a construction business for the purpose of adding street cleaning to the services offered by the business would be considered a business expansion. Similarly, the purchase of a property by a hair care business to open at a second location would be considered a business expansion.

Capital Indebtedness
HUD regulations do not permit the PHA to deduct from gross income the amortization of capital indebtedness.

PHA Policy
Capital indebtedness is defined as the principal portion of the payment on a capital asset such as land, buildings, and machinery. This means the PHA will allow as a business expense interest, but not principal, paid on capital indebtedness.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 14 Revised August 2, 2022 Negative Business Income
If the net income from a business is negative, no business income will be included in annual income; a negative amount will not be used to offset other family income.

Withdrawal of Cash or Assets from a Business
HUD regulations require the PHA to include in annual income the withdrawal of cash or assets from the operation of a business or profession unless the withdrawal reimburses a family member for cash or assets invested in the business by the family.

PHA Policy
Acceptable investments in a business include cash loans and contributions of assets or equipment. For example, if a member of an assisted family provided an up-front loan of $2,000 to help a business get started, the PHA will not count as income any withdrawals from the business up to the amount of this loan until the loan has been repaid. Investments do not include the value of labor contributed to the business without compensation.

Co-owned Businesses
PHA Policy
If a business is co-owned with someone outside the family, the family must document the share of the business it owns. If the family’s share of the income is lower than its share of ownership, the family must document the reasons for the difference. 6-I.G. ASSETS [24 CFR 5.609(b)(3); 24 CFR 5.603(b)]
Overview
There is no asset limitation for participation in the HCV program. However, HUD requires that the PHA include in annual income the anticipated “interest, dividends, and other net income of any kind from real or personal property” [24 CFR 5.609(b)(3)]. This section discusses how the income from various types of assets is determined. For most types of assets, the PHA must determine the value of the asset in order to compute income from the asset. Therefore, for each asset type, this section discusses:
 How the value of the asset will be determined
 How income from the asset will be calculated
Exhibit 6-1 provides the regulatory requirements for calculating income from assets [24 CFR

5.609(b)(3)], and Exhibit 6-3 provides the regulatory definition of net family assets. This section begins with a discussion of general policies related to assets and then provides HUD rules and PHA policies related to each type of asset.

Optional policies for family self-certification of assets are found in Chapter 7.

General Policies
Income from Assets
The PHA generally will use current circumstances to determine both the value of an asset and the anticipated income from the asset. As is true for all sources of income, HUD authorizes the PHA to use other than current circumstances to anticipate income when (1) an imminent change in circumstances is Packet Page 138 of 1050Attachment 2 Page 110 of 487

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 15 Revised August 2, 2022 expected (2) it is not feasible to anticipate a level of income over 12 months or (3) the PHA believes that past income is the best indicator of anticipated income. For example, if a family member owns real property that t ypically receives rental income but the property is currently vacant, the PHA can take into consideration past rental income along with the prospects of obtaining a new tenant.

PHA Policy
Anytime current circumstances are not used to determine asset income, a clear rationale for the decision will be documented in the file. In such cases the family may present information and documentation to the PHA to show why the asset income determination does not represent the family’s anticipated asset income.

Valuing Assets
The calculation of asset income sometimes requires the PHA to make a distinction between an asset’s market value and its cash value.
 The market value of an asset is its worth in the market (e.g., the amount a buyer would pay for real estate or the total value of an investment account).
 The cash value of an asset is its market value less all reasonable amounts that would be incurred when converting the asset to cash.

PHA Policy
Reasonable costs that would be incurred when disposing of an asset include, but are not limited to, penalties for premature withdrawal, broker and legal fees, and settlement costs incurred in real estate transactions [HCV GB, p. 5-28].

Lump-Sum Receipts
Payments that are received in a single lump sum, such as inheritances, capital gains, lottery winnings, insurance settlements, and proceeds from the sale of property, are generally considered assets, not income. However, such lump-sum receipts are counted as assets only if they are retained by a family in a form recognizable as an asset (e.g., deposited in a savings or checking account) [RHIIP FAQs]. (For a discussion of lump-sum payments that represent the delayed start of a periodic payment, most of which are counted as income, see sections 6-I.H and 6-I.I.)
Imputing Income from Assets [24 CFR 5.609(b)(3), Notice PIH 2012-29] When net family assets are $5,000 or less, the PHA will include in annual income the actual income anticipated to be derived from the assets. When the family has net family assets in excess of $5,000, the PHA will include in annual income the greater of (1) the actual income derived from the assets or (2) the imputed income. Imputed income from assets is calculated by multiplying the total cash value of all family assets by an average passbook savings rate as determined by the PHA.  Note: The HUD field office no longer provides an interest rate for imputed asset income. The “safe harbor” is now for the PHA to establish a passbook rate within 0.75 percent of a national average.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 16 Revised August 2, 2022  The PHA must review its passbook rate annually to ensure that it remains within 0.75 percent of the national average.

PHA Policy
The PHA initially set the imputed asset passbook rate at the national rate established by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).

The PHA will review the passbook rate annually. The rate will not be adjusted unless the current PHA rate is no longer within 0.75 percent of the national rate. If it is no longer within 0.75 percent of the national rate, the passbook rate will be set at the current national rate.

The effective date of changes to the passbook rate will be determined at the time of the review.

Determining Actual Anticipated Income from Assets
It may or may not be necessary for the PHA to use the value of an asset to compute the actual anticipated income from the asset. When the value is required to compute the anticipated income from an asset, the market value of the asset is used. For example, if the asset is a property for which a family receives rental income, the anticipated income is determined by annualizing the actual monthly rental amount received for the property; it is not based on the property’s market value. However, if the asset is a savings account, the anticipated income is determined by multiplying the market value of the account by the interest rate on the account.

Withdrawal of Cash or Liquidation of Investments
Any withdrawal of cash or assets from an investment will be included in income except to the extent that the withdrawal reimburses amounts invested by the family. For example, when a family member retires, the amount received by the family from a retirement investment plan is not counted as income until the family has received payments equal to the amount the family member deposited into the retirement investment plan.

Jointly Owned Assets
The regulation at 24 CFR 5.609(a)(4) specifies that annual income includes “amounts derived (during the 12-month period) from assets to which any member of the family has access.” PHA Policy
If an asset is owned by more than one person and any family member has unrestricted access to the asset, the PHA will count the full value of the asset. A family member has unrestricted access to an asset when he or she can legally dispose of the asset without the consent of any of the other owners.

If an asset is owned by more than one person, including a family member, but the family member does not have unrestricted access to the asset, the PHA will prorate the asset according to the percentage of ownership. If no percentage is specified or provided for by state or local law, the PHA will prorate the asset evenly among all owners.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 17 Revised August 2, 2022

Assets Disposed of for Less than Fair Market Value [24 CFR 5.603(b)] HUD regulations require the PHA to count as a current asset any business or family asset that was disposed of for less than fair market value during the two years prior to the effective date of the examination/reexamination, except as noted below.

Minimum Threshold
The HCV Guidebook permits the PHA to set a threshold below which assets disposed of for less than fair market value will not be counted [HCV GB, p. 5-27].

PHA Policy
The PHA will not include the value of assets disposed of for less than fair market value unless the cumulative fair market value of all assets disposed of during the past two years exceeds the gross amount received for the assets by more than $1,000.

When the two-year period expires, the income assigned to the disposed asset(s) also expires. If the two-year period ends between annual recertifications, the family may request an interim recertification to eliminate consideration of the asset(s).

Assets placed by the family in nonrevocable trusts are considered assets disposed of for less than fair market value except when the assets placed in trust were received through settlements or judgments.

Separation or Divorce
The regulation also specifies that assets are not considered disposed of for less than fair market value if they are disposed of as part of a separation or divorce settlement and the applicant or tenant receives important consideration not measurable in dollar terms.

PHA Policy
All assets disposed of as part of a separation or divorce settlement will be considered assets for which important consideration not measurable in monetary terms has been received. In order to qualify for this exemption, a family member must be subject to a formal separation or divorce settlement agreement established through arbitration, mediation, or court order.

Foreclosure or Bankruptcy
Assets are not considered disposed of for less than fair market value when the disposition is the result of a foreclosure or bankruptcy sale.

Family Declaration
PHA Policy
Families must sign a declaration form at initial certification and each annual recertification identifying all assets that have been disposed of for less than fair market value or declaring that no assets have been disposed of for less than fair market value. The PHA may verify the value of Packet Page 141 of 1050Attachment 2 Page 113 of 487

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 18 Revised August 2, 2022 the assets disposed of if other information available to the PHA does not appear to agree with the information reported by the family.

Types of Assets
Checking and Savings Accounts
For regular checking accounts and savings accounts, cash value has the same meaning as market value.

If a checking account does not bear interest, the anticipated income from the account is zero.

PHA Policy
In determining the value of checking account and savings accounts, the PHA will use the current balance.

In determining the anticipated income from an interest-bearing checking or savings account, the PHA will multiply the value of the account by the current rate of interest paid on the account.

Investment Accounts Such as Stocks, Bonds, Saving Certificates, and Money Market Funds Interest or dividends earned by investment accounts are counted as actual income from assets even when the earnings are reinvested. The cash value of such an asset is determined by deducting from the market value any broker fees, penalties for early withdrawal, or other costs of converting the asset to cash.

PHA Policy
In determining the market value of an investment account, the PHA will use the value of the account on the most recent investment report.

How anticipated income from an investment account will be calculated depends on whether the rate of return is known.

For assets that are held in an investment account with a known rate of return (e.g., savings certificates), asset income will be calculated based on that known rate (market value multiplied by rate of earnings).

When the anticipated rate of return is not known (e.g., stocks), the PHA will calculate asset income based on the earnings for the most recent reporting period.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 19 Revised August 2, 2022 Equity in Real Property or Other Capital Investments
Equity (cash value) in a property or other capital asset is the estimated current market value of the asset less the unpaid balance on all loans secured by the asset and reasonable costs (such as broker fees) that would be incurred in selling the asset [HCV GB, p. 5-25].

PHA Policy
In determining the equity, the PHA will determine market value by examining recent sales of at least three properties in the surrounding or similar neighborhood that possess comparable factors that affect market value.

The PHA will first use the payoff amount for the loan (mortgage) as the unpaid balance to calculate equity. If the payoff amount is not available, the PHA will use the basic loan balance information to deduct from the market value in the equity calculation.

Equity in real property and other capital investments is considered in the calculation of asset income except for the following types of assets:
 Equity accounts in HUD homeownership programs [24 CFR5.603(b)]  The value of a home currently being purchased with assistance under the HCV program Homeownership Option for the first 10 years after the purchase date of the home [24 CFR 5.603(b), Notice PIH 2012-3]
 Equity in owner-occupied cooperatives and manufactured homes in which the family lives [HCV GB, p. 5-25]
 Equity in real property when a family member’s main occupation is real estate [HCV GB, p. 5-25].

This real estate is considered a business asset, and income related to this asset will be calculated as described in section 6-I.F.
 Interests in Indian Trust lands [24 CFR 5.603(b)]
 Real property and capital assets that are part of an active business or farming operation [HCV GB, p. 5-25]
The PHA must also deduct from the equity the reasonable costs for converting the asset to cash. Using the formula for calculating equity specified above, the net cash value of real property is the market value minus the balance of the loan (mortgage) minus the expenses to convert to cash [Notice PIH 2012-3].

PHA Policy
For the purposes of calculating expenses to convert to cash for real property, the PHA will use ten percent of the market value of the home.

A family may have real property as an asset in two ways: (1) owning the property itself and (2) holding a mortgage or deed of trust on the property. In the case of a property owned by a family member, the anticipated asset income generally will be in the form of rent or other payment for the use of the property. If the property generates no income, actual anticipated income from the asset will be zero.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 20 Revised August 2, 2022 In the case of a mortgage or deed of trust held by a family member, the outstanding balance (unpaid principal) is the cash value of the asset. The interest portion only of payments made to the family in accordance with the terms of the mortgage or deed of trust is counted as anticipated asset income.

PHA Policy
In the case of capital investments owned jointly with others not living in a family’s unit, a prorated share of the property’s cash value will be counted as an asset unless the PHA determines that the family receives no income from the property and is unable to sell or otherwise convert the asset to cash.

Trusts
A trust is a legal arrangement generally regulated by state law in which one party (the creator or grantor) transfers property to a second party (the trustee) who holds the property for the benefit of one or more third parties (the beneficiaries).

Revocable Trusts
If any member of a family has the right to withdraw the funds in a trust, the value of the trust is considered an asset [HCV GB, p. 5-25]. Any income earned as a result of investment of trust funds is counted as actual asset income, whether the income is paid to the family or deposited in the trust.

Nonrevocable Trusts
In cases where a trust is not revocable by, or under the control of, any member of a family, the value of the trust fund is not considered an asset. However, any income distributed to the family from such a trust is counted as a periodic payment or a lump-sum receipt, as appropriate [24 CFR 5.603(b)]. (Periodic payments are covered in section 6-I.H. Lump-sum receipts are discussed earlier in this section.) Retirement Accounts
Company Retirement/Pension Accounts
In order to correctly include or exclude as an asset any amount held in a company retirement or pension account by an employed person, the PHA must know whether the money is accessible before retirement [HCV GB, p. 5-26].

While a family member is employed, only the amount the family member can withdraw without retiring or terminating employment is counted as an asset [HCV GB, p. 5-26].

After a family member retires or terminates employment, any amount distributed to the family member is counted as a periodic payment or a lump-sum receipt, as appropriate [HCV GB, p. 5-26], except to the extent that it represents funds invested in the account by the family member. (For more on periodic payments, see section 6-I.H.) The balance in the account is counted as an asset only if it remains accessible to the family member.

IRA, Keogh, and Similar Retirement Savings Accounts
IRA, Keogh, and similar retirement savings accounts are counted as assets even though early withdrawal would result in a penalty [HCV GB, p. 5-25].

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 21 Revised August 2, 2022 Personal Property
Personal property held as an investment, such as gems, jewelry, coin collections, antique cars, etc., is considered an asset [HCV GB, p. 5-25].

PHA Policy
In determining the value of personal property held as an investment, the PHA will use the family’s estimate of the value. The PHA may obtain an appraisal to confirm the value of the asset if there is reason to believe that the family’s estimated value is off by $50 or more. The family must cooperate with the appraiser but cannot be charged any costs related to the appraisal.

Generally, personal property held as an investment generates no income until it is disposed of. If regular income is generated (e.g., income from renting the personal property), the amount that is expected to be earned in the coming year is counted as actual income from the asset.

Necessary items of personal property are not considered assets [24 CFR 5.603(b)].

PHA Policy
Necessary personal property consists of only those items not held as an investment, and may include clothing, furniture, household furnishings, jewelry, and vehicles, including those specially equipped for persons with disabilities.

Life Insurance
The cash value of a life insurance policy available to a family member before death, such as a whole life or universal life policy, is included in the calculation of the value of the family’s assets [HCV GB 5-25].

The cash value is the surrender value. If such a policy earns dividends or interest that the family could elect to receive, the anticipated number of dividends or interest is counted as income from the asset whether or not the family actually receives it.
6-I.H. PERIODIC PAYMENTS
Periodic payments are forms of income received on a regular basis. HUD regulations specify periodic payments that are and are not included in annual income.

Periodic Payments Included in Annual Income
 Periodic payments from sources such as social security, unemployment and welfare assistance, annuities, insurance policies, retirement funds, and pensions. However, periodic payments from retirement accounts, annuities, and similar forms of investments are counted only after they exceed the amount contributed by the family [24 CFR 5.609(b)(4) and (b)(3)].  Disability or death benefits and lottery receipts paid periodicall y, rather than in a single lump sum [24 CFR 5.609(b)(4) and HCV, p. 5-14].

Lump-Sum Payments for the Delayed Start of a Periodic Payment Most lump-sums received as a result of delays in processing periodic payments, such as unemployment or welfare assistance, are counted as income. However, lump-sum receipts for the delayed start of periodic social security or supplemental security income (SSI) payments are not counted as income.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 22 Revised August 2, 2022 Additionally, any deferred disability benefits that are received in a lump-sum or in prospective monthly amounts from the Department of Veterans Affairs are to be excluded from annual income [24 CFR

5.609(c)(14)].

PHA Policy
When a delayed-start payment is received and reported during the period in which the PHA is processing an annual reexamination, the PHA will adjust the family share and PHA subsidy retroactively for the period the payment was intended to cover. The family may pay in full any amount due or request to enter into a repayment agreement with the PHA.

Treatment of Overpayment Deductions from Social Security Benefits The PHA must make a special calculation of annual income when the Social Security Administration (SSA) overpays an individual, resulting in a withholding or deduction from his or her benefit amount until the overpayment is paid in full. The amount and duration of the withholding will vary depending on the amount of the overpayment and the percent of the benefit rate withheld. Regardless of the amount withheld or the length of the withholding period, the PHA must use the reduced benefit amount after deducting only the amount of the overpayment withholding from the gross benefit amount [Notice PIH 2018-24].

Periodic Payments Excluded from Annual Income
 Payments received for the care of foster children or foster adults (usually persons with disabilities, unrelated to the assisted family, who are unable to live alone) [24 CFR 5.609(c)(2)]. Kinship guardianship assistance payments (Kin-GAP) and other similar guardianship payments are treated the same as foster care payments and are likewise excluded from annual income [Notice PIH 2012- 1].

PHA Policy
The PHA will exclude payments for the care of foster children and foster adults only if the care is provided through an official arrangement with a local welfare agency [HCV GB, p. 5-18].  Amounts paid by a state agency to a family with a member who has a developmental disability and is living at home to offset the cost of services and equipment needed to keep the developmentally disabled family member at home [24 CFR 5.609(c)(16)].
 Amounts received under the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (42 U.S.C. 1626(c)) [24 CFR 5.609(c)(17)].
 Amounts received under the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 9858q) [24 CFR 5.609(c)(17)].
 Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) refund payments (26 U.S.C. 32(j)) [24 CFR 5.609(c)(17)]. Note:

EITC may be paid periodically if the family elects to receive the amount due as part of payroll payments from an employer.
 Lump-sums received as a result of delays in processing Social Security and SSI payments (see section 6-I.H.) [24 CFR 5.609(c)(14)].
 Lump-sums or prospective monthly amounts received as deferred disability benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) [24 CFR 5.609(c)(14)].

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 23 Revised August 2, 2022 6-I.I. PAYMENTS IN LIEU OF EARNINGS
Payments in lieu of earnings, such as unemployment and disability compensation, worker’s compensation, and severance pay, are counted as income [24 CFR 5.609(b)(5)] if they are received either in the form of periodic payments or in the form of a lump-sum amount or prospective monthly amounts for the delayed start of a periodic payment. If they are received in a one-time lump sum (as a settlement, for instance), they are treated as lump-sum receipts [24 CFR 5.609(c)(3)]. (See also the discussion of periodic payments in section 6-I.H and the discussion of lump-sum receipts in section 6- I.G.)
6-I.J. WELFARE ASSISTANCE
Overview
Welfare assistance is counted in annual income. Welfare assistance includes Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and any payments to individuals or families based on need that are made under programs funded separately or jointly by federal, state, or local governments [24 CFR 5.603(b)].

Sanctions Resulting in the Reduction of Welfare Benefits [24 CFR 5.615] The PHA must make a special calculation of annual income when the welfare agency imposes certain sanctions on certain families. The full text of the regulation at 24 CFR 5.615 is provided as Exhibit 6-5.

The requirements are summarized below. This rule applies only if a family was receiving HCV assistance at the time the sanction was imposed.

Covered Families
The families covered by 24 CFR 5.615 are those “who receive welfare assistance or other public assistance benefits (‘welfare benefits’) from a State or other public agency (’welfare agency’) under a program for which Federal, State or local law requires that a member of the family must participate in an economic self-sufficiency program as a condition for such assistance” [24 CFR 5.615(b)] Imputed Income
When a welfare agency imposes a sanction that reduces a family’s welfare income because the family commits fraud or fails to comply with the agency’s economic self-sufficiency program or work activities requirement, the PHA must include in annual income “imputed” welfare income. The PHA must request that the welfare agency provide the reason for the reduction of benefits and the amount of the reduction of benefits. The imputed welfare income is the amount that the benefits were reduced as a result of the sanction.

This requirement does not apply to reductions in welfare benefits: (1) at the expiration of the lifetime or other time limit on the payment of welfare benefits, (2) if a family member is unable to find employment even though the family member has complied with the welfare agency economic self-sufficiency or work activities requirements, or (3) because a family member has not complied with other welfare agency requirements [24 CFR 5.615(b)(2)].

Offsets
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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 24 Revised August 2, 2022 The amount of the imputed welfare income is offset by the amount of additional income the family begins to receive after the sanction is imposed. When the additional income equals or exceeds the imputed welfare income, the imputed income is reduced to zero [24 CFR 5.615(c)(4)]. 6-I.K. PERIODIC AND DETERMINABLE ALLOWANCES [24 CFR 5.609(b)(7)] Annual income includes periodic and determinable allowances, such as alimony and child support payments, and regular contributions or gifts received from organizations or from persons not residing with an assisted family.

Alimony and Child Support
The PHA must count alimony or child support amounts awarded as part of a divorce or separation agreement.

PHA Policy
The PHA will count court-awarded amounts for alimony and child support unless the PHA verifies that: (1) the payments are not being made, and (2) the family has made reasonable efforts to collect amounts due, including filing with courts or agencies responsible for enforcing payments [HCV GB, pp. 5-23 and 5-47].

Families who do not have court-awarded alimony and child support awards are not required to seek a court award and are not required to take independent legal action to obtain collection.

Regular Contributions or Gifts
The PHA must count as income regular monetary and nonmonetary contributions or gifts from persons not residing with an assisted family [24 CFR 5.609(b)(7)]. Temporary, nonrecurring, or sporadic income and gifts are not counted [24 CFR 5.609(c)(9)].

PHA Policy
Examples of regular contributions include: (1) regular payment of a family’s bills (e.g., utilities, telephone, rent, credit cards, and car payments), (2) cash or other liquid assets provided to any family member on a regular basis, and (3) “in-kind” contributions such as groceries and clothing provided to a family on a regular basis.

Nonmonetary contributions will be valued at the cost of purchasing the items, as determined by the PHA. For contributions that may vary from month to month (e.g., utility payments), the PHA will include an average amount based upon past history.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 25 Revised August 2, 2022 6-I.L. STUDENT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE [24 CFR 5.609(b)(9); Notice PIH 2015-21] In 2005, Congress passed a law (for Section 8 programs only) requiring that certain student financial assistance be included in annual income. Prior to that, the full amount of student financial assistance was excluded. For some students, the full exclusion still applies.

Student Financial Assistance Included in Annual Income [24 CFR 5.609(b)(9); FR 4/10/06; Notice PIH 2015-21]
The regulation requiring the inclusion of certain student financial assistance applies only to students who satisfy all of the following conditions:
 They are enrolled in an institution of higher education, as defined under the Higher Education Act (HEA) of 1965.
 They are seeking or receiving Section 8 assistance on their own—that is, apart from their parents— through the HCV program, the project-based voucher program, or the moderate rehabilitation program.
 They are under 24 years of age OR they have no dependent children.

For students who satisfy these three conditions, any financial assistance in excess of tuition and any other required fees and charges received: (1) under the 1965 HEA, (2) from a private source, or (3) from an institution of higher education, as defined under the 1965 HEA, must be included in annual income.

To determine annual income in accordance with the above requirements, the PHA will use the definitions of dependent child, institution of higher education, and parents in section 3-II.E, along with the following definitions [FR 4/10/06, pp. 18148-18150]:
 Assistance under the Higher Education Act of 1965 includes Pell Grants, Federal Supplement Educational Opportunity Grants, Academic Achievement Incentive Scholarships, State Assistance under the Leveraging Educational Assistance Partnership Program, the Robert G. Byrd Honors Scholarship Program, and Federal Work Study programs.
 Assistance from private sources means assistance from nongovernmental sources, including parents, guardians, and other persons not residing with the student in an HCV assisted unit.  Tuition and fees are defined in the same manner in which the Department of Education defines tuition and fees [Notice PIH 2015-21].
- This is the amount of tuition and required fees covering a full academic year most frequently charged to students.
- The amount represents what a typical student would be charged and may not be the same for all students at an institution.
- If tuition is charged on a per-credit-hour basis, the average full-time credit hour load for an academic year is used to estimate average tuition.
- Required fees include all fixed-sum charges that are required of a large proportion of all students.

Examples include, but are not limited to, writing and science lab fees and fees specific to the student’s major or program (i.e., nursing program).

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 26 Revised August 2, 2022 - Expenses related to attending an institution of higher education must not be included as tuition.

Examples include, but are not limited to, room and board, books, supplies, meal plans, transportation and parking, student health insurance plans, and other non-fixed-sum charges.

Student Financial Assistance Excluded from Annual Income [24 CFR 5.609(c)(6)] Any student financial assistance not subject to inclusion under 24 CFR 5.609(b)(9) is fully excluded from annual income under 24 CFR 5.609(c)(6), whether it is paid directly to the student or to the educational institution the student is attending. This includes any financial assistance received by:
 Students residing with parents who are seeking or receiving Section 8 assistance  Students who are enrolled in an educational institution that does not meet the 1965 HEA definition of institution of higher education
 Students who are over 23 AND have at least one dependent child, as defined in section 3-II.E  Students who are receiving financial assistance through a governmental program not authorized under the 1965 HEA.
6-I.M. ADDITIONAL EXCLUSIONS FROM ANNUAL INCOME
Other exclusions contained in 24 CFR 5.609(c) that have not been discussed earlier in this chapter include the following:
 Reimbursement of medical expenses [24 CFR 5.609(c)(4)]  Amounts received by participants in other publicly assisted programs which are specifically for or in reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses incurred and which are made solely to allow participation in a specific program [24 CFR 5.609(c)(8)(iii)]
 Amounts received by a person with a disability that are disregarded for a limited time for purposes of Supplemental Security Income eligibility and benefits because they are set aside for use under a Plan to Attain Self-Sufficiency (PASS) [(24 CFR 5.609(c)(8)(ii)]  Reparation payments paid by a foreign government pursuant to claims filed under the laws of that government by persons who were persecuted during the Nazi era [24 CFR 5.609(c)(10)]  Adoption assistance payments in excess of $480 per adopted child [24 CFR 5.609(c)(12)]  Refunds or rebates on property taxes paid on the dwelling unit [24 CFR 5.609(c)(15)]  Amounts paid by a state agency to a family with a member who has a developmental disability and is living at home to offset the cost of services and equipment needed to keep the developmentally disabled family member at home [24 CFR 5.609(c)(16)]
 Amounts specifically excluded by any other federal statute [24 CFR 5.609(c)(17), FR Notice 5/20/14]. HUD publishes an updated list of these exclusions periodically. It includes:
(a) The value of the allotment provided to an eligible household under the Food Stamp Act of 1977 (7 U.S.C. 2017 (b))
(b) Benefits under Section 1780 of the School Lunch Act and Child Nutrition Act of 1966, including WIC
(c) Payments to volunteers under the Domestic Volunteer Services Act of 1973 (42 U.S.C. 5044(g), 5058)
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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 27 Revised August 2, 2022 (d) Payments received under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (43 U.S.C. 1626(c)) (e) Income derived from certain submarginal land of the United States that is held in trust for certain Indian tribes (25 U.S.C. 459e)
(f) Payments or allowances made under the Department of Health and Human Services’ Low- Income Home Energy Assistance Program (42 U.S.C. 8624(f)) (g) Payments received under programs funded in whole or in part under the Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (29 U.S.C. 2931)
(h) Deferred disability benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs, whether received as a lump sum or in monthly prospective amounts
(i) Income derived from the disposition of funds to the Grand River Band of Ottawa Indians (Pub.

L. 94-540, 90 Stat. 2503-04)
(j) Payments, funds, or distributions authorized, established, or directed by the Seneca Nation Settlement Act of 1990 (25 U.S.C. 1774f(b))
(k) A lump sum or periodic paym ent received by an individual Indian pursuant to the Class Action Settlement Agreement in the United States District Court case entitled Elouise Cobell et al. v.

Ken Salazar et al., for a period of one year from the time of receipt of that payment as provided in the Claims Resolution Act of 2010
(l) The first $2,000 of per capita shares received from judgment funds awarded by the Indian Claims Commission or the U. S. Claims Court, the interests of individual Indians in trust or restricted lands, including the first $2,000 per year of income received by individual Indians from funds derived from interests held in such trust or restricted lands (25 U.S.C. 1407-1408) (m) Benefits under the Indian Veterans Housing Opportunity Act of 2010 (only applies to Native American housing programs)
(n) Payments received from programs funded under Title V of the Older Americans Act of 1985 (42 U.S.C. 3056(f))
(o) Payments received on or after January 1, 1989, from the Agent Orange Settlement Fund or any other fund established pursuant to the settlement in In Re Agent Orange product liability litigation, M.D.L. No. 381 (E.D.N.Y.)
(p) Payments received under 38 U.S.C. 1833(c) to children of Vietnam veterans born with spinal bifida, children of women Vietnam veterans born with certain birth defects, and children of certain Korean service veterans born with spinal bifida (q) Payments received under the Maine Indian Claims Settlement Act of 1980 (25 U.S.C. 1721) (r) The value of any child care provided or arranged (or any amount received as payment for such care or reimbursement for costs incurred for such care) under the Child Care and Development Block Grant Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 9858q)
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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 28 Revised August 2, 2022 (s) Earned income tax credit (EITC) refund payments received on or after January 1, 1991 (26 U.S.C. 32(j))
(t) Payments by the Indian Claims Commission to the Confederated Tribes and Bands of Yakima Indian Nation or the Apache Tribe of Mescalero Reservation (Pub. L. 95-433) (u) Amounts of scholarships funded under Title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965j, including awards under federal work-study programs or under the Bureau of Indian Affairs student assistance programs (20 U.S.C. 1087uu). For Section 8 programs, the exception found in § 237 of Public Law 109–249 applies and requires that the amount of financial assistance in excess of tuition and mandatory fees shall be considered income in accordance with the provisions codified at 24 CFR 5.609(b)(9), except for those persons with disabilities as defined by 42 U.S.C. 1437a(b)(3)(E) (Pub. L. 109–249) (See See Section 6-I.L. for exceptions.) (v) Allowances, earnings, and payments to AmeriCorps participants under the National and Community Service Act of 1990 (42 U.S.C. 12637(d))
(w) Any amount of crime victim compensation (under the Victims of Crime Act) received through crime victim assistance (or payment or reimbursement of the cost of such assistance) as determined under the Victims of Crime Act because of the commission of a crime against the applicant under the Victims of Crime Act (42 U.S.C. 10602) (x) Any amounts in an "individual development account" as provided by the Assets for Independence Act, as amended in 2002
(y) Payments made from the proceeds of Indian tribal trust cases as described in Notice PIH 2013– 30, "Exclusion from Income of Payments under Recent Tribal Trust Settlements" (25 U.S.C. 117b(a))
(z) Major disaster and emergency assistance received under the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act and comparable disaster assistance provided by states, local governments, and disaster assistance organizations
(aa) Distributions from an ABLE account, and actual or imputed interest on the ABLE account balance
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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 29 Revised August 2, 2022 PART II: ADJUSTED INCOME
6-II.A. INTRODUCTION
Overview
HUD regulations require PHAs to deduct from annual income any of five mandatory deductions for which a family qualifies. The resulting amount is the family’s adjusted income. Mandatory deductions are found in 24 CFR 5.611.

5.611(a) Mandatory deductions. In determining adjusted income, the responsible entity [PHA] must deduct the following amounts from annual income:
(1) $480 for each dependent;
(2) $400 for any elderly family or disabled family;
(3) The sum of the following, to the extent the sum exceeds three percent of annual income:
(i) Unreimbursed medical expenses of any elderly family or disabled family; (ii) Unreimbursed reasonable attendant care and auxiliary apparatus expenses for each member of the family who is a person with disabilities, to the extent necessary to enable any member of the family (including the member who is a person with disabilities) to be employed. This deduction may not exceed the earned income received by family members who are 18 years of age or older and who are able to work because of such attendant care or auxiliary apparatus; and (4) Any reasonable childcare expenses necessary to enable a member of the family to be employed or to further his or her education.

This part covers policies related to these mandatory deductions. Verification requirements related to these deductions are found in Chapter 7.

Anticipating Expenses
PHA Policy
Generally, the PHA will use current circumstances to anticipate expenses. When possible, for costs that are expected to fluctuate during the year (e.g., childcare during school and nonschool periods and cyclical medical expenses), the PHA will estimate costs based on historic data and known future costs.

If a family has an accumulated debt for medical or disability assistance expenses, the PHA will include as an eligible expense the portion of the debt that the family expects to pay during the period for which the income determination is being made. However, amounts previously deducted will not be allowed even if the amounts were not paid as expected in a preceding period. The PHA may require the family to provide documentation of payments made in the preceding year.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 30 Revised August 2, 2022 6-II.B. DEPENDENT DEDUCTION
An allowance of $480 is deducted from annual income for each dependent [24 CFR 5.611(a)(1)].

Dependent is defined as any family member other than the head, spouse, or cohead who is under the age of 18 or who is 18 or older and is a person with disabilities or a full-time student. Foster children, foster adults, and live-in aides are never considered dependents [24 CFR 5.603(b)]. 6-II.C. ELDERLY OR DISABLED FAMILY DEDUCTION
A single deduction of $400 is taken for any elderly or disabled family [24 CFR 5.611(a)(2)]. An elderly family is a family whose head, spouse, cohead, or sole member is 62 years of age or older, and a disabled family is a family whose head, spouse, cohead, or sole member is a person with disabilities [24 CFR 5.403].
6-II.D. MEDICAL EXPENSES DEDUCTION [24 CFR 5.611(a)(3)(i)] Unreimbursed medical expenses may be deducted to the extent that, in combination with any disability assistance expenses, they exceed three percent of annual income.

The medical expense deduction is permitted only for families in which the head, spouse, or cohead is at least 62 or is a person with disabilities. If a family is eligible for a medical expense deduction, the medical expenses of all family members are counted [VG, p. 28].

Definition of Medical Expenses
HUD regulations define medical expenses at 24 CFR 5.603(b) to mean “medical expenses, including medical insurance premiums, that are anticipated during the period for which annual income is computed, and that are not covered by insurance.”
PHA Policy
The most current IRS Publication 502, Medical and Dental Expenses, will be used as a reference to determine the costs that qualify as medical expenses.

Summary of Allowable Medical Expenses from IRS Publication 502 Services of medical professionals
Surgery and medical procedures that are
necessary, legal, noncosmetic
Services of medical facilities
Hospitalization, long-term care, and in-
home nursing services
Prescription medicines and insulin, but
not nonprescription medicines even if
recommended by a doctor
Improvements to housing directly related
to medical needs (e.g., ramps for a wheel
chair, handrails)
Psychiatric treatment
Ambulance services and some costs of
transportation related to medical
expenses
The cost and care of necessary
equipment related to a medical
condition (e.g., eyeglasses/lenses,
hearing aids, crutches, and artificial
teeth)
Cost and continuing care of necessary
service animals
Medical insurance premiums or the cost
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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 31 Revised August 2, 2022 Substance abuse treatment programs of a health maintenance organization (HMO)
Note: This chart provides a summary of eligible medical expenses only. Detailed information is provided in IRS Publication 502. Medical expenses are considered only to the extent they are not reimbursed by insurance or some other source.

Families That Qualify for Both Medical and Disability Assistance Expenses PHA Policy
This policy applies only to families in which the head, spouse, or cohead is 62 or older or is a person with disabilities.

Earned Income Limit on the Disability Assistance Expense Deduction A family can qualify for the disability assistance expense deduction only if at least one family member (who may be the person with disabilities) is enabled to work [24 CFR 5.603(b)].

The disability expense deduction is capped by the amount of “earned income received by family members who are 18 years of age or older and who are able to work” because of the expense [24 CFR

5.611(a)(3)(ii)]. The earned income used for this purpose is the amount verified before any earned income disallowances or income exclusions are applied.

PHA Policy
The family must identify the family members enabled to work as a result of the disability assistance expenses. In evaluating the family’s request, the PHA will consider factors such as how the work schedule of the relevant family members relates to the hours of care provided, the time required for transportation, the relationship of the family members to the person with disabilities, and any special needs of the person with disabilities that might determine which family members are enabled to work.

When the PHA determines that the disability assistance expenses enable more than one family member to work, the expenses will be capped by the sum of the family members’ incomes.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 32 Revised August 2, 2022 Eligible Disability Expenses
Examples of auxiliary apparatus are provided in the HCV Guidebook as follows: “Auxiliary apparatus are items such as wheelchairs, ramps, adaptations to vehicles, or special equipment to enable a blind person to read or type, but only if these items are directly related to permitting the disabled person or other family member to work” [HCV GB, p. 5-30].

HUD advises PHAs to further define and describe auxiliary apparatus [VG, p. 30].

Eligible Auxiliary Apparatus
PHA Policy
Expenses incurred for maintaining or repairing an auxiliary apparatus are eligible. In the case of an apparatus that is specially adapted to accommodate a person with disabilities (e.g., a vehicle or computer), the cost to maintain the special adaptations (but not maintenance of the apparatus itself) is an eligible expense. The cost of service animals trained to give assistance to persons with disabilities, including the cost of acquiring the animal, veterinary care, food, grooming, and other continuing costs of care, will be included.

Eligible Attendant Care
The family determines the type of attendant care that is appropriate for the person with disabilities.

PHA Policy
Attendant care includes, but is not limited to, reasonable costs for home medical care, nursing services, in-home or center-based care services, interpreters for persons with hearing impairments, and readers for persons with visual disabilities.

Attendant care expenses will be included for the period that the person enabled to work is employed plus reasonable transportation time. The cost of general housekeeping and personal services is not an eligible attendant care expense. However, if the person enabled to work is the person with disabilities, personal services necessary to enable the person with disabilities to work are eligible.

If the care attendant also provides other services to the family, the PHA will prorate the cost and allow only that portion of the expenses attributable to attendant care that enables a family member to work. For example, if the care provider also cares for a child who is not the person with disabilities, the cost of care must be prorated. Unless otherwise specified by the care provider, the calculation will be based upon the number of hours spent in each activity and/or the number of persons under care.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 33 Revised August 2, 2022 Payments to Family Members
No disability assistance expenses may be deducted for payments to a member of an assisted family [24 CFR 5.603(b)]. However, expenses paid to a relative who is not a member of the assisted family may be deducted if they are not reimbursed by an outside source.

Necessary and Reasonable Expenses
The family determines the type of care or auxiliary apparatus to be provided and must describe how the expenses enable a family member to work. The family must certify that the disability assistance expenses are necessary and are not paid or reimbursed by any other source.

PHA Policy
The PHA determines the reasonableness of the expenses based on typical costs of care or apparatus in the locality. To establish typical costs, the PHA will collect information from organizations that provide services and support to persons with disabilities. A family may present, and the PHA will consider, the family’s justification for costs that exceed typical costs in the area.

Families That Qualify for Both Medical and Disability Assistance Expenses PHA Policy
This policy applies only to families in which the head or spouse is 62 or older or is a person with disabilities.

When expenses anticipated by a family could be defined as either medical or disability assistance expenses, the PHA will consider them medical expenses unless it is clear that the expenses are incurred exclusively to enable a person with disabilities to work. 6-II.F. CHILD CARE EXPENSE DEDUCTION
HUD defines childcare expenses at 24 CFR 5.603(b) as “amounts anticipated to be paid by the family for the care of children under 13 years of age during the period for which annual income is computed, but only where such care is necessary to enable a family member to actively seek employment, be gainfully employed, or to further his or her education and only to the extent such amounts are not reimbursed. The amount deducted shall reflect reasonable charges for childcare. In the case of childcare necessary to permit employment, the amount deducted shall not exceed the amount of employment income that is included in annual income.”
Clarifying the Meaning of Child for This Deduction
Childcare expenses do not include child support payments made to another on behalf of a minor who is not living in an assisted family’s household [VG, p. 26]. However, child care expenses for foster children that are living in the assisted family’s household are included when determining the family’s child care expenses [HCV GB, p. 5-29].

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 34 Revised August 2, 2022 Qualifying for the Deduction
Determining Who Is Enabled to Pursue an Eligible Activity PHA Policy
The family must identify the family member(s) enabled to pursue an eligible activity. The term eligible activity in this section means any of the activities that may make the family eligible for a childcare deduction (seeking work, pursuing an education, or being gainfully employed).

In evaluating the family’s request, the PHA will consider factors such as how the schedule for the claimed activity relates to the hours of care provided, the time required for transportation, the relationship of the family member(s) to the child, and any special needs of the child that might help determine which family member is enabled to pursue an eligible activity.

Seeking Work
PHA Policy
If the childcare expense being claimed is to enable a family member to seek employment, the family must provide evidence of the family member’s efforts to obtain employment at each reexamination. The deduction may be reduced or denied if the family member’s job search efforts are not commensurate with the childcare expense being allowed by the PHA.

Furthering Education
PHA Policy
If the childcare expense being claimed is to enable a family member to further his or her education, the member must be enrolled in school (academic or vocational) or participating in a formal training program. The family member is not required to be a full-time student, but the time spent in educational activities must be commensurate with the childcare claimed.

Being Gainfully Employed
PHA Policy
If the childcare expense being claimed is to enable a family member to be gainfully employed, the family must provide evidence of the family member’s employment during the time that childcare is being provided. Gainful employment is any legal work activity (full- or part-time) for which a family member is compensated.

Earned Income Limit on Child Care Expense Deduction
When a family member looks for work or furthers his or her education, there is no cap on the amount that may be deducted for childcare – although the care must still be necessary and reasonable. However, when childcare enables a family member to work, the deduction is capped by “the amount of employment income that is included in annual income” [24 CFR 5.603(b)].

The earned income used for this purpose is the amount of earned income verified after any earned income disallowances or income exclusions are applied.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 35 Revised August 2, 2022 When the person who is enabled to work is a person with disabilities who receives the earned income disallowance (EID) or a full-time student whose earned income above $480 is excluded, childcare costs related to enabling a family member to work may not exceed the portion of the person’s earned income that actually is included in annual income. For example, if a family member who qualifies for the EID makes $15,000 but because of the EID only $5,000 is included in annual income, childcare expenses are limited to $5,000.

The PHA must not limit the deduction to the least expensive type of childcare. If the care allows the family to pursue more than one eligible activity, including work, the cap is calculated in proportion to the amount of time spent working [HCV GB, p. 5-30].

PHA Policy
When the childcare expense being claimed is to enable a family member to work, only one family member’s income will be considered for a given period of time. When more than one family member works during a given period, the PHA generally will limit allowable childcare expenses to the earned income of the lowest-paid member. The family may provide information that supports a request to designate another family member as the person enabled to work.

Eligible Child Care Expenses
The type of care to be provided is determined by the assisted family. The PHA may not refuse to give a family the childcare expense deduction because there is an adult family member in the household that may be available to provide child care [VG, p. 26].

Allowable Child Care Activities
PHA Policy
For school-age children, costs attributable to public or private school activities during standard school hours are not considered. Expenses incurred for supervised activities after school or during school holidays (e.g., summer day camp, after-school sports league) are allowable forms of childcare.

The costs of general housekeeping and personal services are not eligible.

If a childcare provider also renders other services to a family or childcare is used to enable a family member to conduct activities that are not eligible for consideration, the PHA will prorate the costs and allow only that portion of the expenses that is attributable to childcare for eligible activities. For example, if the care provider also cares for a child with disabilities who is 13 or older, the cost of care will be prorated. Unless otherwise specified by the childcare provider, the calculation will be based upon the number of hours spent in each activity and/or the number of persons under care.

Necessary and Reasonable Costs
Childcare expenses will be considered necessary if: (1) a family adequately explains how the care enables a family member to work, actively seek employment, or further his or her education, and (2) the family certifies, and the childcare provider verifies, that the expenses are not paid or reimbursed by any other source.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 36 Revised August 2, 2022 PHA Policy
Childcare expenses will be considered for the time required for the eligible activity plus reasonable transportation time. For childcare that enables a family member to go to school, the time allowed may include not more than one study hour for each hour spent in class.

To establish the reasonableness of childcare costs, the PHA will use the schedule of childcare costs from a qualified local entity that either subsidizes childcare costs or licenses childcare providers. Families may present, and the PHA will consider, justification for costs that exceed typical costs in the area.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 37 Revised August 2, 2022 PART III: CALCULATING FAMILY SHARE AND PHA SUBSIDY
6-III.A. OVERVIEW OF RENT AND SUBSIDY CALCULATIONS
TTP Formula [24 CFR 5.628]
HUD regulations specify the formula for calculating the total tenant payment (TTP) for an assisted family. TTP is the highest of the following amounts, rounded to the nearest dollar:
 30 percent of the famil y’s monthly adjusted income (adjusted income is defined in Part II)  10 percent of the family’s monthly gross income (annual income, as defined in Part I, divided by 12)  The welfare rent (in as-paid states only)
 A minimum rent between $0 and $50 that is established by the PHA The PHA has authority to suspend and exempt families from minimum rent when a financial hardship exists, as defined in section 6-III.B.

The amount that a family pays for rent and utilities (the family share) will never be less than the family’s TTP but may be greater than the TTP depending on the rent charged for the unit the family selects.

Welfare Rent [24 CFR 5.628]
PHA Policy
Welfare rent does not apply in this locality.

Minimum Rent [24 CFR 5.630]
PHA Policy
The minimum rent for this locality is $50.

Family Share [24 CFR 982.305(a)(5)]
If a family chooses a unit with a gross rent (rent to owner plus an allowance for tenant-paid utilities) that exceeds the PHA’s applicable payment standard: (1) the family will pay more than the TTP, and (2) at initial occupancy the PHA may not approve the tenancy if it would require the family share to exceed 40 percent of the family’s monthly adjusted income. The income used for this determination must have been verified no earlier than 60 days before the family’s voucher was issued. (For a discussion of the application of payment standards, see section 6-III.C.) Packet Page 161 of 1050Attachment 2 Page 133 of 487

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 38 Revised August 2, 2022 PHA Subsidy [24 CFR 982.505(b)]
The PHA will pay a monthly housing assistance payment (HAP) for a family that is equal to the lower of (1) the applicable payment standard for the family minus the family’s TTP or (2) the gross rent for the family’s unit minus the TTP. (For a discussion of the application of payment standards, see section 6- III.C.)
Utility Reimbursement [24 CFR 982.514(b); 982.514(c)]
When the PHA subsidy for a family exceeds the rent to owner, the family is due a utility reimbursement.

HUD permits the PHA to pay the reimbursement to the family or directly to the utility provider.

PHA Policy
The PHA will make utility reimbursements to the utility provider.

The PHA may make all utility reimbursement payments to qualifying families on a monthly basis or may make quarterly payments when the monthly reimbursement amount is $15.00 or less.

Reimbursements must be made once per calendar-year quarter and must be prorated if the family leaves the program in advance of its next quarterly reimbursement. The PHA must also adopt hardship policies for families for whom receiving quarterly reimbursement would create a financial hardship.

PHA Policy
The PHA will issue all utility reimbursements monthly.
6-III.B. FINANCIAL HARDSHIPS AFFECTING MINIMUM RENT [24 CFR 5.630] Overview
If the PHA establishes a minimum rent greater than zero, the PHA must grant an exemption from the minimum rent if a family is unable to pay the minimum rent because of financial hardship.

The financial hardship exemption applies only to families required to pay the minimum rent. If a family’s TTP is higher than the minimum rent, the family is not eligible for a hardship exemption. If the PHA determines that a hardship exists, the family share is the highest of the remaining components of the family’s calculated TTP.

HUD-Defined Financial Hardship
Financial hardship includes the following situations:
(1) The family has lost eligibility for or is awaiting an eligibility determination for a federal, state, or local assistance program. This includes a family member who is a noncitizen lawfully admitted for permanent residence under the Immigration and Nationality Act who would be entitled to public benefits but for Title IV of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Act of 1996.

PHA Policy
A hardship will be considered to exist only if the loss of eligibility has an impact on the family’s ability to pay the minimum rent.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 39 Revised August 2, 2022 For a family waiting for a determination of eligibility, the hardship period will end as of the first of the month following: (1) implementation of assistance, if approved, or (2) the decision to deny assistance. A family whose request for assistance is denied may request a hardship exemption based upon one of the other allowable hardship circumstances. (2) The family would be evicted because it is unable to pay the minimum rent.

PHA Policy
For a family to qualify under this provision, the cause of the potential eviction must be the family’s failure to pay rent to the owner or tenant-paid utilities. (3) Family income has decreased because of changed family circumstances, including the loss of employment.
(4) A death has occurred in the family.

PHA Policy
In order to qualify under this provision, a family must describe how the death has created a financial hardship (e.g., because of funeral-related expenses or the loss of the family member’s income).
(5) The family has experienced other circumstances determined by the PHA.

PHA Policy
The PHA has not established any additional hardship criteria.

Implementation of Hardship Exemption
Determination of Hardship
When a family requests a financial hardship exemption, the PHA must suspend the minimum rent requirement beginning the first of the month following the family’s request.

The PHA then determines whether the financial hardship exists and whether the hardship is temporary or long-term.

PHA Policy
The PHA defines temporary hardship as a hardship expected to last 90 days or less. Long-term hardship is defined as a hardship expected to last more than 90 days.

When the minimum rent is suspended, the family share reverts to the highest of the remaining components of the calculated TTP. The example below demonstrates the effect of the minimum rent exemption.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 40 Revised August 2, 2022 Example: Impact of Minimum Rent Exemption
Assume the PHA has established a minimum rent of $50.

Family Share – No Hardship Family Share – With Hardship $0
$15
N/A
$50
30% of monthly adjusted income
10% of monthly gross income
Welfare rent
Minimum rent
$0
$15
N/A
$50
30% of monthly adjusted income
10% of monthly gross income
Welfare rent
Minimum rent
Minimum rent applies.

TTP = $50
Hardship exemption granted.

TTP = $15
PHA Policy
To qualify for a hardship exemption, a family must submit a request for a hardship exemption in writing. The request must explain the nature of the hardship and how the hardship has affected the family’s ability to pay the minimum rent.

The PHA will make the determination of hardship within 30 calendar days.

No Financial Hardship
If the PHA determines there is no financial hardship, the PHA will reinstate the minimum rent and require the family to repay the amounts suspended.

PHA Policy
The PHA will require the family to repay the suspended amount within 30 calendar days of the PHA’s notice that a hardship exemption has not been granted.

Temporary Hardship
If the PHA determines that a qualifying financial hardship is temporary, the PHA must suspend the minimum rent for the 90-day period beginning the first of the month following the date of the family’s request for a hardship exemption.

At the end of the 90-day suspension period, the family must resume payment of the minimum rent and must repay the PHA the amounts suspended. HUD requires the PHA to offer a reasonable repayment agreement, on terms and conditions established by the PHA. The PHA also may determine that circumstances have changed and the hardship is now a long-term hardship.

PHA Policy
The PHA will enter into a repayment agreement in accordance with the procedures found in Chapter 16 of this plan.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 41 Revised August 2, 2022 Long-Term Hardship
If the PHA determines that the financial hardship is long-term, the PHA must exempt the family from the minimum rent requirement for so long as the hardship continues. The exemption will apply from the first of the month following the family’s request until the end of the qualifying hardship. When the financial hardship has been determined to be long-term, the family is not required to repay the minimum rent.

PHA Policy
The hardship period ends when any of the following circumstances apply:
(1) At an interim or annual reexamination, the family’s calculated TTP is greater than the minimum rent.
(2) For hardship conditions based on loss of income, the hardship condition will continue to be recognized until new sources of income are received that are at least equal to the amount lost.

For example, if a hardship is approved because a family no longer receives a $60/month child support payment, the hardship will continue to exist until the family receives at least $60/month in income from another source or once again begins to receive the child support. (3) For hardship conditions based upon hardship-related expenses, the minimum rent exemption will continue to be recognized until the cumulative amount exempted is equal to the expense incurred.
6-III.C. APPLYING PAYMENT STANDARDS [24 CFR 982.505; 982.503(b)] Overview
The PHA’s schedule of payment standards is used to calculate housing assistance payments for HCV families. This section covers the application of the PHA’s payment standards. The establishment and revision of the PHA’s payment standard schedule are covered in Chapter 16.

Payment standard is defined as “the maximum monthly assistance payment for a family assisted in the voucher program (before deducting the total tenant payment by the family)” [24 CFR 982.4(b)].

The payment standard for a family is the lower of (1) the payment standard for the family unit size, which is defined as the appropriate number of bedrooms for the family under the PHA’s subsidy standards [24 CFR 982.4(b)], or (2) the payment standard for the size of the dwelling unit rented by the family.

If the PHA has established an exception payment standard for a designated part of a zip code area or FMR area and a family’s unit is located in the exception area, the PHA must use the appropriate payment standard for the exception area.

The PHA is required to pay a monthly housing assistance payment (HAP) for a family that is the lower of (1) the payment standard for the family minus the family’s TTP or (2) the gross rent for the family’s unit minus the TTP.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 42 Revised August 2, 2022 If during the term of the HAP contract for a family’s unit, the owner lowers the rent, the PHA will recalculate the HAP using the lower of the initial payment standard or the gross rent for the unit [HCV GB, p. 7-8].

Changes in Payment Standards
When the PHA revises its payment standards during the term of the HAP contract for a family’s unit, it will apply the new payment standards in accordance with HUD regulations.

Decreases
If a PHA changes its payment standard schedule, resulting in a lower payment standard amount, during the term of a HAP contract, the PHA is not required to reduce the payment standard used to calculate subsidy for families under HAP contract as long as the HAP contract remains in effect [FR Notice 11/16/16].

However, if the PHA does choose to reduce the payment standard for families currently under HAP contract, the initial reduction to the payment standard may not be applied any earlier than the effective date of the family’s second regular reexamination following the effective date of the decrease in the payment standard amount. At that point, the PHA may either reduce the payment standard to the current amount in effect on the PHA’s payment standard schedule, or may reduce the payment standard to another amount that is higher than the normally applicable amount on the schedule. The PHA may also establish different policies for designated areas within their jurisdiction (e.g., different zip code areas).

In any case, the PHA must provide the family with at least 12 months’ notice that the payment standard is being reduced before the effective date of the change. The PHA’s policy on decreases in the payment standard during the term of the HAP contract apply to all families under HAP contract at the time of the effective date of the decrease in the payment standard within the designated area.

PHA Policy
When the payment standard schedule is decreased during the term of the HAP contract, the PHA will determine the payment standard for families currently under a HAP contract as follows:

Step 1: At the first regular reexamination following the decrease in the payment standard, the PHA will determine the payment standard for the family using the lower of the payment standard for the family unit size or the size of the dwelling unit rented by the family.

Step 2: The PHA will compare the payment standard from Step 1 to the payment standard last used to calculate the monthly housing assistance payment for the family. The payment standard used by the PHA at the first regular reexamination following the decrease in the payment standard will be the higher of these two payment standards. The PHA will advise the family that the application of the lower payment standard will be deferred until the second regular reexamination following the effective date of the decrease in the payment standard.

Step 3: At the second regular reexamination following the decrease in the payment standard, the lower payment standard will be used to calculate the monthly housing assistance payment for the family unless the PHA has subsequently increased the payment standard, in which Packet Page 166 of 1050Attachment 2 Page 138 of 487

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 43 Revised August 2, 2022 case the payment standard will be determined in accordance with procedures for increases in payment standards.

Increases
If the payment standard is increased during the term of the HAP contract, the increased payment standard will be used to calculate the monthly housing assistance payment for the family beginning on the effective date of the family’s first regular reexamination on or after the effective date of the increase in the payment standard.

Families requiring or requesting interim reexaminations will not have their HAP payments calculated using the higher payment standard until their next annual reexamination [HCV GB, p. 7-8].

Changes in Family Unit Size (Voucher Size)
Irrespective of any increase or decrease in the payment standard, if the family unit size increases or decreases during the HAP contract term, the new family unit size must be used to determine the payment standard for the family beginning at the family’s first regular reexamination following the change in family unit size.

Reasonable Accommodation
If a family requires a higher payment standard as a reasonable accommodation for a family member who is a person with disabilities, the PHA is allowed to establish a higher payment standard for the family of not more than 120 percent of the published FMR.
6-III.D. APPLYING UTILITY ALLOWANCES [24 CFR 982.517]
Overview
A PHA-established utility allowance schedule is used in determining family share and PHA subsidy. A family's utility allowance is determined by the size of dwelling unit leased by a family or the voucher unit size for which the family qualifies using PHA subsidy standards, whichever is the lowest of the two.

See Chapter 5 for information on the PHA’s subsidy standards.

For policies on establishing and updating utility allowances, see Chapter 16.

Reasonable Accommodation
HCV program regulations require a PHA to approve a utility allowance amount higher than shown on the PHA’s schedule if a higher allowance is needed as a reasonable accommodation for a family member with a disability. For example, if a family member with a disability requires such an accommodation, the PHA will approve an allowance for air-conditioning, even if the PHA has determined that an allowance for air-conditioning generally is not needed.

The family must request the higher allowance and provide the PHA with an explanation of the need for the reasonable accommodation and information about the amount of additional allowance required [HCV GB, p. 18-8].

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 44 Revised August 2, 2022 Utility Allowance Revisions
At reexamination, the PHA must use the current utility allowance schedule [HCV GB, p. 18-8].

PHA Policy
Revised utility allowances will be applied to a family’s rent and subsidy calculations at the first annual reexamination that is effective after the allowance is adopted. 6-III.E. PRORATED ASSISTANCE FOR MIXED FAMILIES [24 CFR 5.520] HUD regulations prohibit assistance to ineligible family members. A mixed family is one that includes at least one U.S. citizen or eligible immigrant and any number of ineligible family members. The PHA must prorate the assistance provided to a mixed family. The PHA will first determine assistance as if all family members were eligible and then prorate the assistance based upon the percentage of family members that actually are eligible. For example, if the PHA subsidy for a family is calculated at $500 and two of four family members are ineligible, the PHA subsidy would be reduced to $250.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 45 Revised August 2, 2022

EXHIBIT 6-1: ANNUAL INCOME

INCLUSIONS
24 CFR 5.609(a) Annual income means all
amounts, monetary or not, which:
(1) Go to, or on behalf of, the family head or
spouse (even if temporarily absent) or to any
other family member; or
(2) Are anticipated to be received from a
source outside the family during the 12-month
period following admission or annual
reexamination effective date; and
(3) Which are not specifically excluded in
paragraph (c) of this section.
(4) Annual income also means amounts
derived (during the 12-month period) from
assets to which any member of the family has
access.
(b) Annual income includes, but is not limited
to:
(1) The full amount, before an y payroll
deductions, of wages and salaries, overtime
pay, commissions, fees, tips and bonuses, and
other compensation for personal services;
(2) The net income from the operation of a
business or profession. Expenditures for
business expansion or amortization of capital
indebtedness shall not be used as deductions in
determining net income. An allowance for
depreciation of assets used in a business or
profession may be deducted, based on straight
line depreciation, as provided in Internal
Revenue Service regulations. Any withdrawal
of cash or assets from the operation of a
business or profession will be included in
income, except to the extent the withdrawal is
reimbursement of cash or assets invested in the
operation by the family;
(3) Interest, dividends, and other net income of
any kind from real or personal property.

Expenditures for amortization of capital
indebtedness shall not be used as deductions in
determining net income. An allowance for
depreciation is permitted only as authorized in
paragraph (b)(2) of this section. Any
withdrawal of cash or assets from an
investment will be included in income, except
to the extent the withdrawal is reimbursement
of cash or assets invested by the family. Where
the family has net family assets in excess of
$5,000, annual income shall include the
greater of the actual income derived from all
net family assets or a percentage of the value
of such assets based on the current passbook
savings rate, as determined by HUD;
(4) The full amount of periodic amounts
received from Social Security, annuities,
insurance policies, retirement funds, pensions,
disability or death benefits, and other similar
types of periodic receipts, including a lump-
sum amount or prospective monthly amounts
for the delayed start of a periodic amount
(except as provided in paragraph (c)(14) of
this section);
(5) Payments in lieu of earnings, such as
unemployment and disability compensation,
worker's compensation and severance pay
(except as provided in paragraph (c)(3) of this
section);
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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 46 Revised August 2, 2022 (6) Welfare assistance payments.
(i) Welfare assistance payments made under
the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
(TANF) program are included in annual
income only to the extent such payments:
(A) Qualify as assistance under the TANF
program definition at 45 CFR 260.311; and
(B) Are not otherwise excluded under
paragraph (c) of this section.
(ii) If the welfare assistance payment includes
an amount specifically designated for shelter
and utilities that is subject to adjustment by the
welfare assistance agency in accordance with
the actual cost of shelter and utilities, the
amount of welfare assistance income to be
included as income shall consist of:
(A) The amount of the allowance or grant
exclusive of the amount specifically
designated for shelter or utilities; plus
(B) The maximum amount that the welfare
assistance agency could in fact allow the
family for shelter and utilities. If the family's
welfare assistance is ratably reduced from the
standard of need by applying a percentage, the
amount calculated under this paragraph shall
be the amount resulting from one application
of the percentage.
(7) Periodic and determinable allowances,
such as alimony and child support payments,
and regular contributions or gifts received
from organizations or from persons not
residing in the dwelling;
(8) All regular pay, special pay, and
allowances of a member of the Armed Forces
(except as provided in paragraph (c)(7) of this
section)

1 Text of 45 CFR 260.31 follows.
(9) For section 8 programs only and as
provided in 24 CFR 5.612, any financial
assistance, in excess of amounts received for
tuition, that an individual receives under the
Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1001
et seq.), from private sources, or from an
institution of higher education (as defined
under the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20
U.S.C. 1002)), shall be considered income to
that individual, except that financial assistance
described in this paragraph is not considered
annual income for persons over the age of 23
with dependent children. For purposes of this
paragraph, “financial assistance” does not
include loan proceeds for the purpose of
determining income.

HHS DEFINITION OF
"ASSISTANCE"
45 CFR: GENERAL TEMPORARY

ASSISTANCE FOR NEEDY FAMILIES
260.31 What does the term “assistance”
mean?
(a)(1) The term “assistance” includes cash,
payments, vouchers, and other forms of
benefits designed to meet a family’s
ongoing basic needs (i.e., for food, clothing,
shelter, utilities, household goods, personal
care items, and general incidental
expenses).
(2) It includes such benefits even when they
are:
(i) Provided in the form of payments by a
TANF agency, or other agency on its
behalf, to individual recipients; and
(ii) Conditioned on participation in work
experience or community service (or any
other work activity under 261.30 of this
chapter).

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 47 Revised August 2, 2022 (3) Except where excluded under paragraph
(b) of this section, it also includes
supportive services such as transportation
and child care provided to families who are
not employed.
(b) [The definition of “assistance”]
excludes: (1) Nonrecurrent, short-term
benefits that:
(i) Are designed to deal with a specific
crisis situation or episode of need;
(ii) Are not intended to meet recurrent or
ongoing needs; and
(iii) Will not extend beyond four months.
(2) Work subsidies (i.e., payments to
employers or third parties to help cover the
costs of employee wages, benefits,
supervision, and training);
(3) Supportive services such as child care
and transportation provided to families who
are employed;
(4) Refundable earned income tax credits;
(5) Contributions to, and distributions from,
Individual Development Accounts;
(6) Services such as counseling, case
management, peer support, child care
information and referral, transitional
services, job retention, job advancement,
and other employment-related services that
do not provide basic income support; and
(7) Transportation benefits provided under a
Job Access or Reverse Commute project,
pursuant to section 404(k) of [the Social
Security] Act, to an individual who is not
otherwise receiving assistance.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 48 Revised August 2, 2022 EXHIBIT 6-2: ANNUAL INCOME EXCLUSIONS
24 CFR 5.609
(c) Annual income does not include the
following:
(1) Income from employment of children
(including foster children) under the age of 18
years;
(2) Payments received for the care of foster
children or foster adults (usually persons with
disabilities, unrelated to the tenant family, who
are unable to live alone);
(3) Lump-sum additions to family assets, such
as inheritances, insurance payments (including
payments under health and accident insurance
and worker's compensation), capital gains and
settlement for personal or property losses
(except as provided in paragraph (b)(5) of this
section);
(4) Amounts received by the family that are
specifically for, or in reimbursement of, the
cost of medical expenses for any family
member;
(5) Income of a live-in aide, as defined in
Sec. 5.403;
(6) Subject to paragraph (b)(9) of this section,
the full amount of student financial assistance
paid directly to the student or to the
educational institution;
(7) The special pay to a family member
serving in the Armed Forces who is exposed to
hostile fire;
(8) (i) Amounts received under training
programs funded by HUD;
(ii) Amounts received by a person with a
disability that are disregarded for a limited
time for purposes of Supplemental Security
Income eligibility and benefits because they
are set aside for use under a Plan to Attain
Self-Sufficiency (PASS);
(iii) Amounts received by a participant in other
publicly assisted programs which are
specifically for or in reimbursement of out-of-
pocket expenses incurred (special equipment,
clothing, transportation, child care, etc.) and
which are made solely to allow participation in
a specific program;
(iv) Amounts received under a resident service
stipend. A resident service stipend is a modest
amount (not to exceed $200 per month)
received by a resident for performing a service
for the PHA or owner, on a part-time basis,
that enhances the quality of life in the
development. Such services may include, but
are not limited to, fire patrol, hall monitoring,
lawn maintenance, resident initiatives
coordination, and serving as a member of the
PHA's governing board. No resident may
receive more than one such stipend during the
same period of time;
(v) Incremental earnings and benefits resulting
to any family member from participation in
qualifying State or local employment training
programs (including training programs not
affiliated with a local government) and
training of a family member as resident
management staff. Amounts excluded by this
provision must be received under employment
training programs with clearly defined goals
and objectives, and are excluded only for the
period during which the family member
participates in the employment training
program;
(9) Temporary, nonrecurring or sporadic
income (including gifts);
(10) Reparation payments paid by a foreign
government pursuant to claims filed under the
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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 49 Revised August 2, 2022 laws of that government by persons who were
persecuted during the Nazi era;
(11) Earnings in excess of $480 for each full-
time student 18 years old or older (excluding
the head of household and spouse);
(12) Adoption assistance payments in excess
of $480 per adopted child;
(13) [Reserved]
(14) Deferred periodic amounts from
supplemental security income and social
security benefits that are received in a lump
sum amount or in prospective monthly
amounts, or any deferred Department of
Veterans Affairs disability benefits that are
received in a lump sum amount or prospective
monthly amounts.
(15) Amounts received by the family in the
form of refunds or rebates under State or local
law for property taxes paid on the
dwelling unit;
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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 50 Revised August 2, 2022 (16) Amounts paid by a State agency to a
family with a member who has a
developmental disability and is living at home
to offset the cost of services and equipment
needed to keep the developmentally disabled
family member at home; or
(17) Amounts specifically excluded by any
other Federal statute from consideration as
income for purposes of determining eligibility
or benefits under a category of assistance
programs that includes assistance under any
program to which the exclusions set forth in 24
CFR 5.609(c) apply. A notice will be
published in the Federal Register and
distributed to PHAs and housing owners
identifying the benefits that qualify for this
exclusion. Updates will be published and
distributed when necessary. [See Section
6-I.M. for a list of benefits that qualify for
this exclusion.]
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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 51 Revised August 2, 2022 EXHIBIT 6-3: TREATMENT OF FAMILY ASSETS
24 CFR 5.603(b) Net Family Assets
(1) Net cash value after deducting reasonable
costs that would be incurred in disposing of
real property, savings, stocks, bonds, and other
forms of capital investment, excluding
interests in Indian trust land, and excluding
equity accounts in HUD homeownership
programs. The value of necessary items of
personal property such as furniture and
automobiles shall be excluded.
(2) In cases where a trust fund has been
established and the trust is not revocable by, or
under the control of, any member of the family
or household, the value of the trust fund will
not be considered an asset so long as the fund
continues to be held in trust. Any income
distributed from the trust fund shall be counted
when determining annual income under Sec.

5.609.
(3) In determining net family assets, PHAs or
owners, as applicable, shall include the value
of any business or family assets disposed of by
an applicant or tenant for less than fair market
value (including a disposition in trust, but not
in a foreclosure or bankruptcy sale) during the
two years preceding the date of application for
the program or reexamination, as applicable, in
excess of the consideration received therefor.

In the case of a disposition as part of a
separation or divorce settlement, the
disposition will not be considered to be for less
than fair market value if the applicant or tenant
receives important consideration not
measurable in dollar terms.
(4) For purposes of determining annual income
under Sec. 5.609, the term "net family assets''
does not include the value of a home currently
being purchased with assistance under part
982, subpart M of this title. This exclusion is
limited to the first 10 years after the purchase
date of the home.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 52 Revised August 2, 2022 EXHIBIT 6-4: EARNED INCOME DISALLOWANCE FOR PERSONS WITH

DISABILITIES
24 CFR 5.617 Self-sufficiency incentives for persons with disabilities–Disallowance of increase in annual income.
(a) Applicable programs. The disallowance of
earned income provided by this section is
applicable only to the following programs:

HOME Investment Partnerships Program (24
CFR part 92); Housing Opportunities for
Persons with AIDS (24 CFR part 574);
Supportive Housing Program (24 CFR part
583); and the Housing Choice Voucher
Program (24 CFR part 982).
(b) Definitions. The following definitions
apply for purposes of this section.

Baseline income. The annual income
immediately prior to implementation of the
disallowance described in paragraph (c)(1) of
this section of a person with disabilities (who
is a member of a qualified family).

Disallowance. Exclusion from annual income.

Previously unemployed includes a person with
disabilities who has earned, in the twelve
months previous to employment, no more than
would be received for 10 hours of work per
week for 50 weeks at the established minimum
wage.

Qualified family. A family residing in housing
assisted under one of the programs listed in
paragraph (a) of this section or receiving
tenant-based rental assistance under one of the
programs listed in paragraph (a) of this
section.
(1) Whose annual income increases as a result
of employment of a family member who is a
person with disabilities and who was
previously unemployed for one or more years
prior to employment;
(2) Whose annual income increases as a result
of increased earnings by a family member who
is a person with disabilities during
participation in any economic self-sufficiency
or other job training program; or
(3) Whose annual income increases, as a
result of new employment or increased
earnings of a family member who is a person
with disabilities, during or within six months
after receiving assistance, benefits or services
under any state program for temporary
assistance for needy families funded under
Part A of Title IV of the Social Security Act,
as determined by the responsible entity in
consultation with the local agencies
administering temporary assistance for needy
families (TANF) and Welfare-to-Work
(WTW) programs. The TANF program is not
limited to monthly income maintenance, but
also includes such benefits and services as
one-time payments, wage subsidies and
transportation assistance-- provided that the
total amount over a six-month period is at least
$500.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 53 Revised August 2, 2022 (c) Disallowance of increase in annual
income—
(1) Initial twelve month exclusion. During the
12-month period beginning on the date a
member who is a person with disabilities of a
qualified family is first employed or the family
first experiences an increase in annual income
attributable to employment, the responsible
entity must exclude from annual income (as
defined in the regulations governing the
applicable program listed in paragraph (a) of
this section) of a qualified family any increase
in income of the family member who is a
person with disabilities as a result of
employment over prior income of that family
member.
(2) Second twelve month exclusion and phase-
in. Upon expiration of the 12-month period
defined in paragraph (c)(1) of this section and
for the subsequent 12-month period, the
responsible entity must exclude from annual
income of a qualified family at least 50 percent
of any increase in income of such family
member as a result of employment over the
family member’s baseline income.
(3) Maximum 2-year disallowance. The
disallowance of increased income of an
individual family member who is a person
with disabilities as provided in paragraph
(c)(1) or (c)(2) of this section is limited to a
lifetime 24-month period. The disallowance
applies for a maximum of 12 months for
disallowance under paragraph (c)(1) of this
section and a maximum of 12 months for
disallowance under paragraph (c)(2) of this
section, during the 24- month period starting
from the initial exclusion under paragraph
(c)(1) of this section.
(4) Effect of changes on currently
participating families. Families eligible for
and participating in the disallowance of earned
income under this section prior to May 9, 2016
will continue to be governed by this section in
effect as it existed immediately prior to that
date (see 24 CFR parts 0 to 199, revised as of
April 1, 2016).
(d) Inapplicability to admission. The
disallowance of increases in income as a result
of employment of persons with disabilities
under this section does not apply for purposes
of admission to the program (including the
determination of income eligibility or any
income targeting that may be applicable).

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 54 Revised August 2, 2022 EXHIBIT 6-5: THE EFFECT OF WELFARE BENEFIT REDUCTION
24 CFR 5.615
Public housing program and Section 8 tenant-based assistance program: How welfare benefit reduction affects family income.

(a) Applicability. This section applies to covered families who reside in public housing (part 960 of this title) or receive Section 8 tenant-based assistance (part 982 of this title). (b) Definitions. The following definitions apply for purposes of this section:

Covered families. Families who receive welfare assistance or other public assistance benefits ("welfare benefits'') from a State or other public agency ("welfare agency'') under a program for which Federal, State, or local law requires that a member of the family must participate in an economic self-sufficiency program as a condition for such assistance.

Economic self-sufficiency program. See definition at Sec. 5.603.

Imputed welfare income. The amount of annual income not actually received by a family, as a result of a specified welfare benefit reduction, that is nonetheless included in the family's annual income for purposes of determining rent.

Specified welfare benefit reduction.
(1) A reduction of welfare benefits by the welfare agency, in whole or in part, for a family member, as determined by the welfare agency, because of fraud by a family member in connection with the welfare program; or because of welfare agency sanction against a family member for noncompliance with a welfare agency requirement to participate in an economic self-sufficiency program.
(2) "Specified welfare benefit reduction'' does not include a reduction or termination of welfare benefits by the welfare agency:
(i) at expiration of a lifetime or other time limit on the payment of welfare benefits; (ii) because a family member is not able to obtain employment, even though the family member has complied with welfare agency economic self-sufficiency or work activities requirements; or (iii) because a family member has not complied with other welfare agency requirements. (c) Imputed welfare income.
(1) A family's annual income includes the amount of imputed welfare income (because of a specified welfare benefits reduction, as specified in notice to the PHA by the welfare agency), plus the total amount of other annual income as determined in accordance with Sec. 5.609. (2) At the request of the PHA, the welfare agency will inform the PHA in writing of the amount and term of any specified welfare benefit reduction for a family member, and the reason for such reduction, and will also inform the PHA of any subsequent changes in the term or amount of such specified welfare benefit reduction. The PHA will use this information to determine the amount of imputed welfare income for a family.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 55 Revised August 2, 2022 (3) A family's annual income includes imputed welfare income in family annual income, as determined at the PHA's interim or regular reexamination of family income and composition, during the term of the welfare benefits reduction (as specified in information provided to the PHA by the welfare agency).
(4) The amount of the imputed welfare income is offset by the amount of additional income a family receives that commences after the time the sanction was imposed. When such additional income from other sources is at least equal to the imputed (5) The PHA may not include imputed welfare income in annual income if the family was not an assisted resident at the time of sanction.
(d) Review of PHA decision.
(1) Public housing. If a public housing tenant claims that the PHA has not correctly calculated the amount of imputed welfare income in accordance with HUD requirements, and if the PHA denies the family's request to modify such amount, the PHA shall give the tenant written notice of such denial, with a brief explanation of the basis for the PHA determination of the amount of imputed welfare income. The PHA notice shall also state that if the tenant does not agree with the PHA determination, the tenant may request a grievance hearing in accordance with part 966, subpart B of this title to review the PHA determination. The tenant is not required to pay an escrow deposit pursuant to Sec. 966.55(e) for the portion of tenant rent attributable to the imputed welfare income in order to obtain a grievance hearing on the PHA determination. (2) Section 8 participant. A participant in the Section 8 tenant-based assistance program may request an informal hearing, in accordance with Sec. 982.555 of this title, to review the PHA determination of the amount of imputed welfare income that must be included in the family's annual income in accordance with this section. If the family claims that such amount is not correctly calculated in accordance with HUD requirements, and if the PHA denies the family's request to modify such amount, the PHA shall give the family written notice of such denial, with a brief explanation of the basis for the PHA determination of the amount of imputed welfare income. Such notice shall also state that if the family does not agree with the PHA determination, the family may request an informal hearing on the determination under the PHA hearing procedure.
(e) PHA relation with welfare agency.
(1) The PHA must ask welfare agencies to inform the PHA of any specified welfare benefits reduction for a family member, the reason for such reduction, the term of any such reduction, and any subsequent welfare agency determination affecting the amount or term of a specified welfare benefits reduction. If the welfare agency determines a specified welfare benefits reduction for a famil y member, and gives the PHA written notice of such reduction, the family's annual incomes shall include the imputed welfare income because of the specified welfare benefits reduction.
(2) The PHA is responsible for determining the amount of imputed welfare income that is included in the family's annual income as a result of a specified welfare benefits reduction as determined by the welfare agency, and specified in the notice by the welfare agency to the PHA.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 56 Revised August 2, 2022 However, the PHA is not responsible for determining whether a reduction of welfare benefits by the welfare agency was correctly determined by the welfare agency in accordance with welfare program requirements and procedures, nor for providing the opportunity for review or hearing on such welfare agency determinations.
(3) Such welfare agency determinations are the responsibility of the welfare agency, and the family may seek appeal of such determinations through the welfare agency's normal due process procedures. The PHA shall be entitled to rely on the welfare agency notice to the PHA of the welfare agency's determination of a specified welfare benefits reduction.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 1 Revised August 2, 2022

CHAPTER 7

VERIFICATION
[24 CFR 982.516, 24 CFR 982.551, 24 CFR 5.230, Notice PIH 2018-18]

INTRODUCTION
The PHA must verify all information that is used to establish the family’s eligibility and level of assistance and is required to obtain written authorization from the family in order to collect the information. Applicants and program participants must cooperate with the verification process as a condition of receiving assistance. The PHA must not pass on the cost of verification to the family.

The PHA will follow the verification guidance provided by HUD in Notice PIH 2018-18 and any subsequent guidance issued by HUD. This chapter summarizes those requirements and provides supplementary PHA policies.

Part I describes the general verification process. Part II provides more detailed requirements related to family information. Part III provides information on income and assets, and Part IV covers mandatory deductions.

Verification policies, rules and procedures will be modified as needed to accommodate persons with disabilities. All information obtained through the verification process will be handled in accordance with the records management policies of the PHA.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 2 Revised August 2, 2022

PART I: GENERAL VERIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
7-I.A. FAMILY CONSENT TO RELEASE OF INFORMATION [24 CFR 982.516 AND 982.551, 24 CFR 5.230]
The family must supply any information that the PHA or HUD determines is necessary to the administration of the program and must consent to PHA verification of that information [24 CFR 982.551].

Consent Forms
It is required that all adult applicants and participants sign form HUD-9886, Authorization for Release of Information. The purpose of form HUD-9886 is to facilitate automated data collection and computer matching from specific sources and provides the family's consent only for the specific purposes listed on the form. HUD and the PHA may collect information from State Wage Information Collection Agencies (SWICAs) and current and former employers of adult family members. Only HUD is authorized to collect information directly from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Social Security Administration (SSA). Adult family members must sign other consent forms as needed to collect information relevant to the family’s eligibility and level of assistance.

Penalties for Failing to Consent [24 CFR 5.232]
If any family member who is required to sign a consent form fails to do so, the PHA will deny admission to applicants and terminate assistance of participants. The family may request an informal review (applicants) or informal hearing (participants) in accordance with PHA procedures. 7-I.B. OVERVIEW OF VERIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
HUD’s Verification Hierarchy [Notice PIH 2018-18]
HUD mandates the use of the EIV system and offers administrative guidance on the use of other methods to verify family information and specifies the circumstances in which each method will be used. In general HUD requires the PHA to use the most reliable form of verification that is available and to document the reasons when the PHA uses a lesser form of verification.

In order of priority, the forms of verification that the PHA will use are:
 Up-front Income Verification (UIV) using HUD’s Enterprise Income Verification (EIV) system  Up-front Income Verification (UIV) using a non-HUD system  Written Third-Party Verification (may be provided by applicant or participant)  Written Third-party Verification Form
 Oral Third-party Verification
 Self-Certification
Each of the verification methods is discussed in subsequent sections below.

Requirements for Acceptable Documents
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HCV Administrative Plan

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 3 Revised August 2, 2022 PHA Policy
Any documents used for verification must be the original (not photocopies) and generally must be dated within 60 days of the PHA request. The documents must not be damaged, altered or in any way illegible.

Printouts from webpages are considered original documents.

The PHA staff member who views the original document must make a photocopy.

File Documentation
The PHA must document in the file how the figures used in income and rent calculations were determined. All verification attempts, information obtained, and decisions reached during the verification process will be recorded in the family’s file in sufficient detail to demonstrate that the PHA has followed all of the verification policies set forth in this plan. The record should be sufficient to enable a staff member or HUD reviewer to understand the process followed and conclusions reached.

PHA Policy
The PHA will document, in the family file, the following:

Reported family annual income
Value of assets
Expenses related to deductions from annual income
Other factors influencing adjusted income
When the PHA is unable to obtain third-party verification, the PHA will document in the family file the reason that third-party verification was not available [24 CFR 982.516(a)(2); Notice PIH 2018-18]. 7-I.C. UP-FRONT INCOME VERIFICATION (UIV)
Up-front income verification (UIV) refers to the PHA’s use of the verification tools available from independent sources that maintain computerized information about earnings and benefits. UIV will be used to the extent that these systems are available to the PHA.

There may be legitimate differences between the information provided by the family and UIV-generated information. If the family disputes the accuracy of UIV data, no adverse action can be taken until the PHA has independently verified the UIV information and the family has been granted an opportunity to contest any adverse findings through the informal review/hearing process of the PHA.

See Chapter 6 for the PHA’s policy on the use of UIV/EIV to project annual income.

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HCV Administrative Plan

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 4 Revised August 2, 2022 Upfront Income Verification Using HUD’s Enterprise Income Verification (EIV) System (Mandatory)
PHAs must use HUD’s EIV system in its entirety as a third-party source to verify tenant employment and income information during mandatory reexaminations or recertifications of family composition and income in accordance with 24 CFR 5.236 and administrative guidance issued by HUD. The EIV system contains data showing earned income, unemployment benefits, social security benefits, and SSI benefits for participant families. The following policies apply to the use of HUD’s EIV system.

EIV Income and IVT Reports
The data shown on income and income validation tool (IVT) reports is updated quarterly. Data may be between 3 and 6 months old at the time reports are generated.

PHA Policy
The PHA will obtain income and IVT reports for annual reexaminations on a monthly basis.

Reports will be generated as part of the regular reexamination process.

Income and IVT reports will be compared to family-provided information as part of the annual reexamination process. Income reports may be used in the calculation of annual income, as described in Chapter 6-I.C. Income reports may also be used to meet the regulatory requirement for third party verification, as described above. Policies for resolving discrepancies between income reports and family-provided information will be resolved as described in Chapter 6-I.C. and in this chapter.

Income and IVT reports will be used in interim reexaminations to identify any discrepancies between reported income and income shown in the EIV system, and as necessary to verify earned income, and to verify and calculate unemployment benefits, Social Security and/or SSI benefits. EIV will also be used to verify that families claiming zero income are not receiving income from any of these sources.

Income and IVT reports will be retained in participant files with the applicable annual or interim reexamination documents.

When the PHA determines through EIV reports and third-party verification that a family has concealed or under-reported income, corrective action will be taken pursuant to the policies in Chapter 14, Program Integrity.

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HCV Administrative Plan

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 5 Revised August 2, 2022 EIV Identity Verification
The EIV system verifies tenant identities against SSA records. These records are compared to PIC data for a match on social security number, name, and date of birth.

PHAs are required to use EIV’s Identity Verification Report on a monthly basis to improve the availability of income information in EIV [Notice PIH 2018-18].

When identity verification for a participant fails, a message will be displayed within the EIV system and no income information will be displayed.

PHA Policy
The PHA will identify participants whose identity verification has failed by reviewing EIV’s Identity Verification Report on a monthly basis.

The PHA will attempt to resolve PIC/SSA discrepancies b y obtaining appropriate documentation from the participant. When the PHA determines that discrepancies exist due to PHA errors such as spelling errors or incorrect birth dates, the errors will be corrected promptly.

Upfront Income Verification Using Non-HUD Systems (Optional) In addition to mandatory use of the EIV system, HUD encourages PHAs to utilize other upfront verification sources.

PHA Policy
The PHA will inform all applicants and participants of its use of the following UIV resources during the admission and reexamination process:

HUD’s EIV system
The Work Number

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HCV Administrative Plan

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 6 Revised August 2, 2022 7-I.D. THIRD-PARTY WRITTEN AND ORAL VERIFICATION
HUD’s current verification hierarchy defines two types of written third-party verification. The more preferable form, “written third-party verification,” consists of an original document generated by a third- party source, which may be received directly from a third-party source or provided to the PHA by the family. If written third-party verification is not available, the PHA must attempt to obtain a “written third-party verification form.” This is a standardized form used to collect information from a third party.

Written Third-Party Verification [Notice PIH 2018-18]
Written third-party verification documents must be original and authentic and may be supplied by the family or received from a third-party source.

Examples of acceptable tenant-provided documents include, but are not limited to: pay stubs, payroll summary reports, employer notice or letters of hire and termination, SSA benefit verification letters, bank statements, child support payment stubs, welfare benefit letters and/or printouts, and unemployment monetary benefit notices.

The PHA is required to obtain, at minimum, two current and consecutive pay stubs for determining annual income from wages.

The PHA may reject documentation provided by the family if the document is not an original, if the document appears to be forged, or if the document is altered, mutilated, or illegible.

PHA Policy
Third-party documents provided by the family must be dated within 60 days of the PHA request date.

If the PHA determines that third-party documents provided by the family are not acceptable, the PHA will explain the reason to the family and request additional documentation.

As verification of earned income, the PHA will require the family to provide the four most current, consecutive pay stubs. At the PHA’s discretion, if additional paystubs are needed due to the family’s circumstances (e.g., sporadic income, fluctuating schedule, etc.), the PHA may request additional paystubs or a payroll record.

As verification of child support income, the PHA will require the family to provide a 12-month record of payments received.

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HCV Administrative Plan

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 7 Revised August 2, 2022 Written Third-Party Verification Form
When upfront verification is not available and the family is unable to provide written third-party documents, the PHA must request a written third-party verification form. HUD’s position is that this traditional third-party verification method presents administrative burdens and risks which may be reduced through the use of family-provided third-party documents.

PHAs may mail, fax, or email third-party written verification form requests to third-party sources.

PHA Policy
The PHA will send third-party verification forms directly to the third party.

Third-party verification forms will be sent when third-party verification documents are unavailable or are rejected by the PHA.

Oral Third-Party Verification [Notice PIH 2018-18]
For third-party oral verification, PHAs contact sources, identified by UIV techniques or by the family, by telephone or in person.

Oral third-party verification is mandatory if neither form of written third-party verification is available.

Third-party oral verification may be used when requests for written third-party verification forms have not been returned within a reasonable time—e.g., 10 business days.

PHAs should document in the file the date and time of the telephone call or visit, the name of the person contacted, the telephone number, as well as the information confirmed.

PHA Policy
In collecting third-party oral verification, PHA staff will record in the family’s file the name and title of the person contacted, the date and time of the conversation (or attempt), the telephone number used, and the facts provided.

When any source responds verbally to the initial written request for verification the PHA will accept the verbal response as oral verification but will also request that the source complete and return any verification forms that were provided.

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HCV Administrative Plan

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 8 Revised August 2, 2022 When Third-Party Verification is Not Required [Notice PIH 2018-18] Third-party verification may not be available in all situations. HUD has acknowledged that it may not be cost-effective or reasonable to obtain third-party verification of income, assets, or expenses when these items would have a minimal impact on the family’s total tenant payment.

PHA Policy
If the family cannot provide original documents, the PHA will pay the service charge required to obtain third-party verification, unless it is not cost effective in which case a self-certification will be acceptable as the only means of verification. The cost of verification will not be passed on to the family.

The cost of postage and envelopes to obtain third-party verification of income, assets, and expenses is not an unreasonable cost [VG, p. 18].

Primary Documents
Third-party verification is not required when legal documents are the primary source, such as a birth certificate or other legal documentation of birth.

Imputed Assets
HUD permits PHAs to accept a self-certification from a family as verification of assets disposed of for less than fair market value [HCV GB, p. 5-28].

PHA Policy
The PHA will accept a self-certification from a family as verification of assets disposed of for less than fair market value.

Value of Assets and Asset Income [24 CFR 982.516(a)]
For families with net assets totaling $5,000 or less, the PHA may accept the family’s declaration of asset value and anticipated asset income. However, the PHA is required to obtain third-party verification of all assets regardless of the amount during the intake process and at least every three years thereafter.

PHA Policy
For families with net assets totaling $5,000 or less, the PHA will accept the family’s self- certification of the value of family assets and anticipated asset income when applicable. The family’s declaration must show each asset and the amount of income expected from that asset.

All family members 18 years of age and older must sign the family’s declaration.

The PHA will use third-party documentation for assets as part of the intake process, whenever a family member is added to verify the individual’s assets, and every three years thereafter.

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HCV Administrative Plan

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 9 Revised August 2, 2022 7-I.E. SELF-CERTIFICATION
When HUD requires third-party verification, self-certification or “tenant declaration,” is used as a last resort when the PHA is unable to obtain third-party verification.

Self-certification, however, is an acceptable form of verification when:
 A source of income is fully excluded
 Net family assets total $5,000 or less and the PHA has adopted a policy to accept self certification at annual recertification, when applicable
 The PHA has adopted a policy to implement streamlined annual recertifications for fixed sources of income (See Chapter 11)
When the PHA was required to obtain third-party verification but instead relies on a tenant declaration for verification of income, assets, or expenses, the family’s file must be documented to explain why third-party verification was not available.

PHA Policy
When information cannot be verified by a third party or by review of documents, family members will be required to submit self-certifications attesting to the accuracy of the information they have provided to the PHA.

The PHA may require a family to certify that a family member does not receive a particular type of income or benefit.

The self-certification must be made in a format acceptable to the PHA and must be signed by the family member whose information or status is being verified.

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HCV Administrative Plan

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 10 Revised August 2, 2022 PART II: VERIFYING FAMILY INFORMATION
7-II.A. VERIFICATION OF LEGAL IDENTITY
PHA Policy
The PHA will require families to furnish verification of legal identity for each household member.

Verification of Legal Identity for Adults Verification of Legal Identity for Children
Certificate of birth, naturalization papers
Church issued baptismal certificate
Current, valid driver's license or
Department of Motor Vehicles
identification card
U.S. military discharge (DD 214)
Current U.S. passport
Current government employer
identification card with picture
Certificate of birth
Adoption papers
Custody agreement
Health and Human Services ID
Certified school records
If a document submitted by a family is illegible for any reason or otherwise questionable, more than one of these documents may be required.

All adult household members will be required to provide a birth certificate and valid state-issued identification, or a valid US Passport.

Legal identity will be verified for all applicants at the time of eligibility determination and in cases where the PHA has reason to doubt the identity of a person representing him or herself to be a participant.
7-II.B. SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBERS [24 CFR 5.216, Notice PIH 2018-24] The family must provide documentation of a valid social security number (SSN) for each member of the household, with the exception of individuals who do not contend eligible immigration status.

Exemptions also include existing program participants who were at least 62 years of age as of January 31, 2010, and had not previously disclosed an SSN.

Note that an individual who previously declared to have eligible immigration status may not change his or her declaration for the purpose of avoiding compliance with the SSN disclosure and documentation requirements or penalties associated with noncompliance with these requirements. Nor may the head of household opt to remove a household member from the family composition for this purpose.

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HCV Administrative Plan

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 11 Revised August 2, 2022 The PHA must accept the following documentation as acceptable evidence of the social security number:
 An original SSN card issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA)  An original SSA-issued document, which contains the name and SSN of the individual  An original document issued by a federal, state, or local government agency, which contains the name and SSN of the individual
The PHA may only reject documentation of an SSN provided by an applicant or participant if the document is not an original document or if the original document has been altered, mutilated, is illegible, or appears to be forged.

PHA Policy
The PHA will explain to the applicant or participant the reasons the document is not acceptable and request that the individual obtain and submit acceptable documentation of the SSN to the PHA within 90 days.

In the case of Moderate Rehabilitation Single Room Occupancy (SRO) individuals, the required documentation must be provided within 90 calendar days from the date of admission into the program.

The PHA must grant one additional 90-day extension if it determines that the applicant’s failure to comply was due to circumstances that were beyond the applicant’s control and could not have been reasonably foreseen.

PHA Policy
The PHA will grant one additional 90-day extension if needed for reasons beyond the participant’s control such as delayed processing of the SSN application by the SSA, natural disaster, fire, death in the family, or other emergency. If the individual fails to comply with SSN disclosure and documentation requirements upon expiration of the provided time period, the PHA will terminate the individual’s assistance.

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HCV Administrative Plan

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 12 Revised August 2, 2022 If an applicant family includes a child under 6 years of age who joined the household within the 6 months prior to the date of voucher issuance, an otherwise eligible family may be admitted to the program and the family must provide documentation of the child’s SSN within 90 days of the effective date of the initial HAP contract. A 90-day extension will be granted if the PHA determines that the participant’s failure to comply was due to unforeseen circumstances and was outside of the participant’s control.

PHA Policy
The PHA will grant one additional 90-day extension if needed for reasons beyond the applicant’s control, such as delayed processing of the SSN application by the SSA, natural disaster, fire, death in the famil y, or other emergency.

When a participant requests to add a new household member who is at least 6 years of age, or who is under the age of 6 and has an SSN, the participant must provide the complete and accurate SSN assigned to each new member at the time of reexamination or recertification, in addition to the documentation required to verify it. The PHA may not add the new household member until such documentation is provided.

When a participant requests to add a new household member who is under the age of 6 and has not been assigned an SSN, the participant must provide the SSN assigned to each new child and the required documentation within 90 calendar days of the child being added to the household. A 90-day extension will be granted if the PHA determines that the participant’s failure to comply was due to unforeseen circumstances and was outside of the participant’s control. During the period the PHA is awaiting documentation of the SSN, the child will be counted as part of the assisted household.

Social security numbers must be verified only once during continuously assisted occupancy.

PHA Policy
The PHA will verify each disclosed SSN by:

Obtaining documentation from applicants and participants that is acceptable as evidence of social security numbers
Making a copy of the original documentation submitted, returning it to the individual, and retaining a copy in the file folder
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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 13 Revised August 2, 2022 Once the individual’s verification status is classified as “verified,” the PHA may, at its discretion, remove and destroy copies of documentation accepted as evidence of social security numbers. The retention of the EIV Summary Report or Income Report is adequate documentation of an individual’s SSN.

PHA Policy
Once an individual’s status is classified as “verified” in HUD’s EIV system, the PHA may remove and destroy copies of documentation accepted as evidence of social security numbers. 7-II.C. DOCUMENTATION OF AGE
A birth certificate or other official record of birth is the preferred form of age verification for all family members. For elderly family members an original document that provides evidence of the receipt of social security retirement benefits is acceptable.

PHA Policy
If an official record of birth or evidence of social security retirement benefits cannot be provided, the PHA will require the family to submit other documents that support the reported age of the family member (e.g., school records, driver's license if birth year is recorded) and to provide a self-certification.

Age must be verified only once during continuously assisted occupancy. 7-II.D. FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS
Applicants and program participants are required to identify the relationship of each household member to the head of household. Definitions of the primary household relationships are provided in the Eligibility chapter.

PHA Policy
Family relationships are verified only to the extent necessary to determine a family’s eligibility and level of assistance. Certification by the head of household normally is sufficient verification of family relationships.

Marriage
PHA Policy
Certification by the head of household is normally sufficient verification. If the PHA has reasonable doubts about a marital relationship, the PHA will require the family to document the marriage.

A marriage certificate generally is required to verify that a couple is married.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 14 Revised August 2, 2022 Separation or Divorce
PHA Policy
Certification by the head of household is normally sufficient verification. If the PHA has reasonable doubts about a separation or divorce, the PHA will require the family to provide documentation of the divorce or separation.

A certified copy of a divorce decree, signed by a court officer, is required to document that a couple is divorced.

A copy of a court-ordered maintenance or other court record is required to document a separation.

If no court document is available, documentation from a community-based agency will be accepted.

Absence of Adult Member
PHA Policy
If an adult member who was formerly a member of the household is reported to be permanently absent, the family must provide evidence to support that the person is no longer a member of the family (e.g., documentation of another address at which the person resides such as a lease or utility bill).

If documentation of the new address is not available, the PHA will make every effort to contact the absent family member. If the PHA is unsuccessful in reaching the absent family member, the PHA will accept a self-certification from the head of household.

Foster Children and Foster Adults
PHA Policy
Third-party verification from the state or local government agency responsible for the placement of the individual with the family is required.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 15 Revised August 2, 2022 7-II.E. VERIFICATION OF STUDENT STATUS
General Requirements
PHA Policy
The PHA requires families to provide information about the student status of all students who are 18 years of age or older. This information will be verified only if:

The family reports full-time student status for an adult other than the head, spouse, or cohead.

The family reports childcare expenses to enable a family member to further his or her education.

The family includes a student enrolled in an institution of higher education.

Restrictions on Assistance to Students Enrolled in Institutions of Higher Education This section applies only to students who are seeking assistance on their own, separately from their parents. It does not apply to students residing with parents who are seeking or receiving HCV assistance.

PHA Policy
In accordance with the verification hierarchy described in section 7-1.B, the PHA will determine whether the student is exempt from the restrictions in 24 CFR 5.612 by verifying any one of the following exemption criteria:

The student is enrolled at an educational institution that does not meet the definition of institution of higher education in the Higher Education Act of 1965 (see section Exhibit 3-2).

The student is at least 24 years old.

The student is a veteran, as defined in section 3-II.E.

The student is married.

The student has at least one dependent child, as defined in section 3-II.E.

The student is a person with disabilities, as defined in section 3-II.E, and was receiving assistance prior to November 30, 2005.

If the PHA cannot verify at least one of these exemption criteria, the PHA will conclude that the student is subject to the restrictions on assistance at 24 CFR 5.612. In addition to verifying the student’s income eligibility, the PHA will then proceed to verify either the student’s parents’ income eligibility (see section 7-III.J) or the student’s independence from his/her parents (see below).

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 16 Revised August 2, 2022 Independent Student
PHA Policy
The PHA will verify a student’s independence from his/her parents to determine that the student’s parents’ income is not relevant for determining the student’s eligibility by doing all of the following:

Either reviewing and verifying previous address information to determine whether the student has established a household separate from his/her parents for at least one year, or reviewing and verifying documentation relevant to determining whether the student meets the U.S. Department of Education’s definition of independent student (see section 3-II.E)
Reviewing the student’s prior year income tax returns to verify the student is independent or verifying the student meets the U.S. Department of Education’s definition of independent student (see section 3-II.E)
Requesting and obtaining written certification directly from the student’s parents identifying the amount of support they will be providing to the student, even if the amount of support is $0, except in cases in which the PHA determines that the student is a vulnerable youth (see section 3-II.E)
7-II.F. DOCUMENTATION OF DISABILITY
The PHA must verify the existence of a disability in order to allow certain income disallowances and deductions from income. The PHA is not permitted to inquire about the nature or extent of a person’s disability [24 CFR 100.202(c)]. The PHA may not inquire about a person’s diagnosis or details of treatment for a disability or medical condition. If the PHA receives a verification document that provides such information, the PHA will not place this information in the tenant file. Under no circumstances will the PHA request a participant’s medical record(s). For more information on health care privacy laws, see the Department of Health and Human Services’ website at http://www.hhs.gov/ocr/privacy/ .

The above cited regulation does not prohibit the following inquiries, provided these inquiries are made of all applicants, whether or not they are persons with disabilities [VG, p. 24]:
 Inquiry into an applicant’s ability to meet the requirements of ownership or tenancy  Inquiry to determine whether an applicant is qualified for a dwelling available only to persons with disabilities or to persons with a particular type of disability  Inquiry to determine whether an applicant for a dwelling is qualified for a priority available to persons with disabilities or to persons with a particular type of disability  Inquiring whether an applicant for a dwelling is a current illegal abuser or addict of a controlled substance
 Inquiring whether an applicant has been convicted of the illegal manufacture or distribution of a controlled substance
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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 17 Revised August 2, 2022 Family Members Receiving SSA Disability Benefits
Verification of the receipt of disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA) is sufficient verification of disability for the purpose of qualifying for waiting list preferences (if applicable) or certain income disallowances and deductions [VG, p. 23].

PHA Policy
For family members claiming disability who receive disability benefits from the SSA, the PHA will attempt to obtain information about disability benefits through the HUD Enterprise Income Verification (EIV) system. If documentation from HUD’s EIV System is not available, the PHA will request a current (dated within the last 60 days) SSA benefit verification letter from each family member claiming disability status. If the family is unable to provide the document(s), the PHA will ask the family to request a benefit verification letter by either calling SSA at 1-800- 772-1213, or by requesting it from www.ssa.gov . Once the applicant or participant receives the benefit verification letter they will be required to provide it to the PHA.

Family Members Not Receiving SSA Disability Benefits
Receipt of veteran’s disability benefits, worker’s compensation, or other non-SSA benefits based on the individual’s claimed disability are not sufficient verification that the individual meets HUD’s definition of disability in 24 CFR 5.403.

PHA Policy
For family members claiming disability who do not receive disability benefits from the SSA, a knowledgeable professional must provide third-party verification that the family member meets the HUD definition of disability. See the Eligibility chapter for the HUD definition of disability.

The knowledgeable professional will verify whether the family member does or does not meet the HUD definition.
7-II.G. CITIZENSHIP OR ELIGIBLE IMMIGRATION STATUS [24 CFR 5.508] Overview
Housing assistance is not available to persons who are not citizens, nationals, or eligible immigrants.

Prorated assistance is provided for "mixed families" containing both eligible and ineligible persons. A detailed discussion of eligibility requirements is in the Eligibility chapter. This verifications chapter discusses HUD and PHA verification requirements related to citizenship status.

The family must provide a certification that identifies each family member as a U.S. citizen, a U.S. national, an eligible noncitizen or an ineligible noncitizen and submit the documents discussed below for each family member. Once eligibility to receive assistance has been verified for an individual it need not be collected or verified again during continuously-assisted occupancy. [24 CFR 5.508(g)(5)]

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 18 Revised August 2, 2022 U.S. Citizens and Nationals
HUD requires a declaration for each family member who claims to be a U.S. citizen or national. The declaration must be signed personally by any family member 18 or older and by a guardian for minors.

The PHA may request verification of the declaration by requiring presentation of a birth certificate, United States passport or other appropriate documentation.

PHA Policy
Family members who claim U.S. citizenship or national status will not be required to provide additional documentation unless the PHA receives information indicating that an individual’s declaration may not be accurate.

Eligible Immigrants
Documents Required
All family members claiming eligible immigration status must declare their status in the same manner as U.S. citizens and nationals.

The documentation required for eligible noncitizens varies depending upon factors such as the date the person entered the U.S., the conditions under which eligible immigration status has been granted, age, and the date on which the family began receiving HUD-funded assistance. Exhibit 7-1 at the end of this chapter summarizes documents family members must provide.

PHA Verification [HCV GB, pp. 5-3 and 5-7]
For family members age 62 or older who claim to be eligible immigrants, proof of age is required in the manner described in 7-II.C. of this plan. No further verification of eligible immigration status is required.

For family members under the age of 62 who claim to be eligible immigrants, the PHA must verify immigration status with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

The PHA will follow all USCIS protocols for verification of eligible immigration status. 7-II.H. VERIFICATION OF PREFERENCE STATUS
The PHA must verify any preferences claimed by an applicant that determined placement on the waiting list.

PHA Policy
o The PHA will offer a preference to any family that has been terminated from its HCV program due to insufficient program funding.
 The PHA will verify this preference using the PHA’s termination records. o The PHA will offer a preference to applicant families who participated in the City of Fairfield Temporary Tenant-Based Rental Assistance (TBRA) Program for persons experiencing Packet Page 198 of 1050Attachment 2 Page 170 of 487

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 19 Revised August 2, 2022 homelessness that was administered by the City of Fairfield and substantially completed the required self-sufficiency component and/or are elderly or disabled. In order to apply for the waiting list during a period when it is closed to the general population, the TBRA participant must submit an application to the FHA, and the FHA must receive it, within 45 days of the last day the applicant was assisted under TBRA.
 The PHA will verify this preference using the PHA’s TBRA participant records. o The PHA will offer a preference for applicant families who live within the city limits of Fairfield, or whose head, spouse, or co-head of household works (verifiable, paid employment) or have been notified that they are hired to work within the city limits of Fairfield.  Adequate documentation to support this preference may include, but is not limited to, a current lease in the applicant’s name, a utility bill, or mail of an official nature (personal letters, etc. will not be accepted). If the applicant is meeting the Local Resident preference through employment, the employment must be reported to all applicable sources (i.e., the IRS, CalWORKs, etc.) to be eligible for this preference. If an applicant is on temporary disability from the job that is qualification for this preference, the applicant must still be employed by the company and eligible to return to work upon medical reinstatement. A Post Office Box address is not considered proof of Fairfield Residency. A family who claims to be homeless in Fairfield must provide verification of services received in Fairfield or any other business documentation that ties that person to Fairfield. Handwritten letters from friends, relatives or other private individuals will not be acceptable as proof of residence. As permitted by HUD (see Section 4-II.C. of this Chapter), the FHA may choose to open its waiting list for categories of families that meet particular preferences. The FHA retains the right to open its waiting list for any length of time only to applicants who meet the Local Resident preference. o The PHA will offer a preference to families that include victims of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking who have either been referred by a partnering service agency or consortia.
 The applicant must certify that the abuser will not reside with the applicant unless the PHA gives prior written approval.
 To verify this preference, the PHA will follow documentation requirements outlined in Section 16-IX.D.
o The PHA will offer a preference for homeless families and individuals.  To verify this preference the applicant family must be referred by a community partner or homeless service provider.
o The PHA will offer a preference for families whose head of household, co-head of household, or spouse is elderly or disabled.
 The PHA will verify this preference in accordance with policy outlined elsewhere in this chapter.
o The PHA will offer a preference for families whose head of household, co-head of household, or spouse is a veteran.
 The PHA will verify this preference by requiring the family to provide a DD214 for the family member claiming the preference.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 20 Revised August 2, 2022 PART III: VERIFYING INCOME AND ASSETS
Chapter 6, Part I of this plan describes in detail the types of income that are included and excluded and how assets and income from assets are handled. Any assets and income reported by the family must be verified. This part provides PHA policies that supplement the general verification procedures specified in Part I of this chapter.
7-III.A. EARNED INCOME
Tips
PHA Policy
Unless tip income is included in a family member’s pay stubs, persons who work in industries where tips are standard will be required to sign a certified estimate of tips received for the prior year and tips anticipated to be received in the coming year.

Wages
PHA Policy
For wages other than tips, the family must provide originals of the four most current, consecutive pay stubs.
7-III.B. BUSINESS AND SELF EMPLOYMENT INCOME
PHA Policy
Business owners and self-employed persons will be required to provide:

An audited financial statement for the previous fiscal year if an audit was conducted. If an audit was not conducted, a statement of income and expenses must be submitted, and the business owner or self-employed person must certify to its accuracy.

All schedules completed for filing federal and local taxes in the preceding year.

If accelerated depreciation was used on the tax return or financial statement, an accountant's calculation of depreciation expense, computed using straight-line depreciation rules.

The PHA will provide a format for any person who is unable to provide such a statement to record income and expenses for the coming year. The business owner/self-employed person will be required to submit the information requested and to certify to its accuracy at all future reexaminations.

At any reexamination the PHA may request documents that support submitted financial statements such as manifests, appointment books, cash books, or bank statements.

If a family member has been self-employed less than three (3) months, the PHA will accept the family member's certified estimate of income and schedule an interim reexamination in three (3) Packet Page 200 of 1050Attachment 2 Page 172 of 487

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 21 Revised August 2, 2022 months. If the family member has been self-employed for three (3) to twelve (12) months, the PHA will require the family to provide documentation of income and expenses for this period and use that information to project income.
7-III.C. PERIODIC PAYMENTS AND PAYMENTS IN LIEU OF EARNINGS For policies governing streamlined income determinations for fixed sources of income, please see Chapter 11.

Social Security/SSI Benefits
PHA Policy
To verify the SS/SSI benefits of applicants, the PHA will request a current (dated within the last 60 days) SSA benefit verification letter from each family member that receives social security benefits. If the family is unable to provide the document(s), the PHA will help the applicant request a benefit verification letter from SSA’s website at www.ssa.gov or ask the family to request one by calling SSA at
1-800-772-1213. Once the applicant has received the benefit verification letter they will be required to provide it to the PHA.

To verify the SS/SSI benefits of participants, the PHA will obtain information about social security/SSI benefits through the HUD EIV System, and confirm with the participant(s) that the current listed benefit amount is correct. If the participant disputes the EIV-reported benefit amount, or if benefit information is not available in HUD systems, the PHA will request a current SSA benefit verification letter from each family member that receives social security benefits. If the family is unable to provide the document(s) the PHA will help the participant request a benefit verification letter from SSA’s website at www.ssa.gov or ask the family to request one by calling SSA at 1-800-772-1213. Once the participant has received the benefit verification letter they will be required to provide it to the PHA. 7-III.D. ALIMONY OR CHILD SUPPORT
PHA Policy
The methods the PHA will use to verify alimony and child support payments differ depending on whether the family declares that it receives regular payments.

If the family declares that it receives regular payments, verification will be obtained in the following order of priority:

Copies of the receipts and/or payment stubs for the 12 months prior to PHA request
Third-party verification form from the state or local child support enforcement agency
Third-party verification form from the person paying the support Packet Page 201 of 1050Attachment 2 Page 173 of 487

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 22 Revised August 2, 2022 Family's self-certification of amount received
If the family declares that it receives irregular or no payments, in addition to the verification process listed above, the family must provide evidence that it has taken all reasonable efforts to collect amounts due. This may include:

A statement from any agency responsible for enforcing payment that shows the family has requested enforcement and is cooperating with all enforcement efforts If the family has made independent efforts at collection, a written statement from the attorney or other collection entity that has assisted the family in these efforts Note: Families are not required to undertake independent enforcement action. 7-III.E. ASSETS AND INCOME FROM ASSETS
Assets Disposed of for Less than Fair Market Value
The family must certify whether any assets have been disposed of for less than fair market value in the preceding two years. The PHA needs to verify only those certifications that warrant documentation [HCV GB, p. 5-28].

PHA Policy
The PHA will verify the value of assets disposed of only if:

The PHA does not already have a reasonable estimation of its value from previously collected information, or
The amount reported by the family in the certification appears obviously in error.

Example 1: An elderly participant reported a $10,000 certificate of deposit at the last annual reexamination and the PHA verified this amount. Now the person reports that she has given this $10,000 to her son. The PHA has a reasonable estimate of the value of the asset; therefore, reverification of the value of the asset is not necessary.

Example 2: A family member has disposed of its 1/4 share of real property located in a desirable area and has valued her share at approximately $5,000. Based upon market conditions, this declaration does not seem realistic. Therefore, the PHA will verify the value of this asset.

7-III.F. NET INCOME FROM RENTAL PROPERTY
PHA Policy
The family must provide:

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 23 Revised August 2, 2022 A current executed lease for the property that shows the rental amount or certification from the current tenant
A self-certification from the family members engaged in the rental of property providing an estimate of expenses for the coming year and the most recent IRS Form 1040 with Schedule E (Rental Income).

If schedule E was not prepared, the PHA will require the family members involved in the rental of property to provide a self-certification of income and expenses for the previous year and may request documentation to support the statement including: tax statements, insurance invoices, bills for reasonable maintenance and utilities, and bank statements or amortization schedules showing monthly interest expense. 7-III.G. RETIREMENT ACCOUNTS
PHA Policy
The PHA will accept written third-party documents supplied by the family as evidence of the status of retirement accounts.

The type of original document that will be accepted depends upon the family member’s retirement status.

Before retirement, the PHA will accept an original document from the entity holding the account with a date that shows it is the most recently scheduled statement for the account but in no case earlier than 6 months from the effective date of the examination.

Upon retirement, the PHA will accept an original document from the entity holding the account that reflects any distributions of the account balance, any lump sums taken and any regular payments.

After retirement, the PHA will accept an original document from the entity holding the account dated no earlier than 12 months before that reflects any distributions of the account balance, any lump sums taken and any regular payments.

7-III.H. INCOME FROM EXCLUDED SOURCES
A detailed discussion of excluded income is provided in Chapter 6, Part I.

HUD guidance on verification of excluded income draws a distinction between income which is fully excluded and income which is only partially excluded.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 24 Revised August 2, 2022 For fully excluded income, the PHA is not required to follow the verification hierarchy, document why third-party verification is not available, or report the income on the 50058. Fully excluded income is defined as income that is entirely excluded from the annual income determination (for example, food stamps, earned income of a minor, or foster care funds) [Notice PIH 2013-04].

PHAs may accept a family’s signed application or reexamination form as self-certification of fully excluded income. They do not have to require additional documentation. However, if there is any doubt that a source of income qualifies for full exclusion, PHAs have the option of requiring additional verification.

For partially excluded income, the PHA is required to follow the verification hierarchy and all applicable regulations, and to report the income on the 50058. Partially excluded income is defined as income where only a certain portion of what is reported by the family qualifies to be excluded and the remainder is included in annual income (for example, the income of an adult full-time student, or income excluded under the earned income disallowance).

PHA Policy
The PHA will accept the family’s self-certification as verification of fully excluded income. The PHA may request additional documentation if necessary to document the income source.

The PHA will verify the source and amount of partially excluded income as described in Part 1 of this chapter.
7-III.I. ZERO ANNUAL INCOME STATUS
PHA Policy
The PHA will check UIV sources and/or request information from third-party sources to verify that certain forms of income such as unemployment benefits, TANF, SS, SSI, and earnings are not being received by families claiming to have zero annual income.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 25 Revised August 2, 2022 7-III.J. STUDENT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE [Notice PIH 2015-21] Any financial assistance, in excess of amounts received for tuition, fees, and other required charges that a person attending an institution of higher education receives under the Higher Education Act of 1965, from private sources, or from an institution of higher education must be considered income unless the student is over the age of 23 with dependent children or is residing with parents who are seeking or receiving HCV assistance [24 CFR 5.609(b)(9) and FR 4/10/06].

For students over the age of 23 with dependent children or students residing with parents who are seeking or receiving HCV assistance, the full amount of student financial assistance is excluded from annual income [24 CFR 5.609(c)(6)]. The full amount of student financial assistance is also excluded for students attending schools that do not qualify as institutions of higher education (as defined in Exhibit 3- 2). Excluded amounts are verified only if, without verification, the PHA would not be able to determine whether or to what extent the income is to be excluded (see section 7-III.H).

PHA Policy
For a student subject to having a portion of his/her student financial assistance included in annual income in accordance with 24 CFR 5.609(b)(9), the PHA will request written third-party verification of both the source and the amount. Family-provided documents from the educational institution attended by the student will be requested, as well as documents generated by any other person or entity providing such assistance, as reported by the student.

In addition, the PHA will request written verification of the student’s tuition, fees, and other required charges.

If the PHA is unable to obtain third-party written verification of the requested information, the PHA will pursue other forms of verification following the verification hierarchy in section 7-I.B. 7-III.K. PARENTAL INCOME OF STUDENTS SUBJECT TO ELIGIBILITY RESTRICTIONS If a student enrolled at an institution of higher education is under the age of 24, is not a veteran, is not married, does not have a dependent child, and is not a person with disabilities receiving HCV assistance as of November 30, 2005, the income of the student’s parents must be considered when determining income eligibility, unless the student is determined independent from his or her parents or a vulnerable youth in accordance with PHA policy [24 CFR 5.612, FR Notice 4/10/06, p. 18146, and FR Notice 9/21/16].

This provision does not apply to students residing with parents who are seeking or receiving HCV assistance. It is limited to students who are seeking or receiving assistance on their own, separately from their parents.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 26 Revised August 2, 2022 PHA Policy
If the PHA is required to determine the income eligibility of a student’s parents, the PHA will request an income declaration and certification of income from the appropriate parent(s) (as determined in section 3-II.E). The PHA will send the request directly to the parents, who will be required to certify to their income under penalty of perjury. The parents will be required to submit the information directly to the PHA. The required information must be submitted (postmarked) within 10 business days of the date of the PHA’s request or within any extended timeframe approved by the PHA.

The PHA reserves the right to request and review supporting documentation at any time if it questions the declaration or certification. Supporting documentation may include, but is not limited to, Internal Revenue Service (IRS) tax returns, consecutive and original pay stubs, bank statements, pension benefit statements, benefit award letters, and other official and authentic documents from a federal, state, or local agency.

PART IV: VERIFYING MANDATORY DEDUCTIONS
7-IV.A. DEPENDENT AND ELDERLY/DISABLED HOUSEHOLD DEDUCTIONS The dependent and elderly/disabled family deductions require only that the PHA verify that the family members identified as dependents or elderly/disabled persons meet the statutory definitions. No further verifications are required.

Dependent Deduction
See Chapter 6 (6-II.B.) for a full discussion of this deduction. The PHA must verify that:
 Any person under the age of 18 for whom the dependent deduction is claimed is not the head, spouse, or cohead of the family and is not a foster child  Any person age 18 or older for whom the dependent deduction is claimed is not a foster adult or live-in aide, and is a person with a disability or a full time student Elderly/Disabled Family Deduction
See Eligibility chapter for a definition of elderly and disabled families and Chapter 6 (6-II.C.) for a discussion of the deduction. The PHA must verify that the head, spouse, or cohead is 62 years of age or older or a person with disabilities.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 27 Revised August 2, 2022 7-IV.B. MEDICAL EXPENSE DEDUCTION
Policies related to medical expenses are found in 6-II.D. The amount of the deduction will be verified following the standard verification procedures described in Part I.

Amount of Expense
PHA Policy
Medical expenses that occurred or will occur from the previous annual recertification to the current recertification will be verified through:

Written third-party documents provided by the family, such as pharmacy printouts or receipts.

The PHA will make a best effort to determine what expenses from the past are likely to continue to occur in the future. The PHA will also accept evidence of monthly payments or total payments that will be due for medical expenses during the upcoming 12 months.

Written third-party verification forms if the family is unable to provide acceptable documentation.

If third-party or document review is not possible, written family certification as to costs anticipated to be incurred during the upcoming 12 months.

In addition, the PHA must verify that:
 The household is eligible for the deduction.
 The costs to be deducted are qualified medical expenses.  The expenses are not paid for or reimbursed by any other source.  Costs incurred in past years are counted only once.

Eligible Household
The medical expense deduction is permitted only for households in which the head, spouse, or cohead is at least 62, or a person with disabilities. The PHA must verify that the family meets the definition of an elderly or disabled family provided in the Eligibility chapter and as described in Chapter 7 (7-IV.A.) of this plan.

Qualified Expenses
To be eligible for the medical expense’s deduction, the costs must qualify as medical expenses. See Chapter 6 (6-II.D.) for the PHA’s policy on what counts as a medical expense.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 28 Revised August 2, 2022 Unreimbursed Expenses
To be eligible for the medical expense’s deduction, the costs must not be reimbursed by another source.

PHA Policy
The family will be required to certify that the medical expenses are not paid or reimbursed to the family from any source. If expenses are verified through a third party, the third party must certify that the expenses are not paid or reimbursed from any other source.

Expenses Incurred in Past Years
PHA Policy
When anticipated costs are related to on-going payment of medical bills incurred in past years, the PHA will verify:

The anticipated repayment schedule
The amounts paid in the past, and
Whether the amounts to be repaid have been deducted from the family’s annual income in past years
7-IV.C. DISABILITY ASSISTANCE EXPENSES
Policies related to disability assistance expenses are found in 6-II.E. The amount of the deduction will be verified following the standard verification procedures described in Part I.

Amount of Expense
Attendant Care
PHA Policy
The PHA will accept written third-party documents provided by the family.

If family-provided documents are not available, the PHA will provide a third-party verification form directly to the care provider requesting the needed information.

Expenses for attendant care will be verified through:

Written third-party documents provided by the family, such as receipts or cancelled checks.

Third-party verification form signed by the provider if family-provided documents are not available.

If third-party verification is not possible, written family certification as to costs anticipated to be incurred for the upcoming 12 months.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 29 Revised August 2, 2022

Auxiliary Apparatus
PHA Policy
Expenses for auxiliary apparatus will be verified through:

Written third-party documents provided by the family, such as billing statements for purchase of auxiliary apparatus, or other evidence of monthly payments or total payments that will be due for the apparatus during the upcoming 12 months.

Third-party verification form signed by the provider if family-provided documents are not available.

If third-party verification is not possible, written family certification of estimated apparatus costs for the upcoming 12 months.

In addition, the PHA must verify that:
 The family member for whom the expense is incurred is a person with disabilities (as described in 7- II.F above).
 The expense permits a family member, or members, to work (as described in 6-II.E.).  The expense is not reimbursed from another source (as described in 6-II.E.).

Family Member is a Person with Disabilities
To be eligible for the disability assistance expense deduction, the costs must be incurred for attendant care or auxiliary apparatus expense associated with a person with disabilities. The PHA will verify that the expense is incurred for a person with disabilities (See 7-II.F.).

Family Member(s) Permitted to Work
The PHA must verify that the expenses claimed actually enable a family member, or members, (including the person with disabilities) to work.

PHA Policy
The PHA will request third-party verification from a rehabilitation agency or knowledgeable medical professional indicating that the person with disabilities requires attendant care or an auxiliary apparatus to be employed, or that the attendant care or auxiliary apparatus enables another family member, or members, to work (See 6-II.E.). This documentation may be provided by the family.

If third-party verification has been attempted and is either unavailable or proves unsuccessful, the family must certify that the disability assistance expense frees a family member, or members (possibly including the family member receiving the assistance), to work.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 30 Revised August 2, 2022

Unreimbursed Expenses
To be eligible for the disability expenses deduction, the costs must not be reimbursed by another source.

PHA Policy
The family will be required to certify that attendant care or auxiliary apparatus expenses are not paid by or reimbursed to the family from any source.
7-IV.D. CHILD CARE EXPENSES
Policies related to child care expenses are found in Chapter 6 (6-II.F). The amount of the deduction will be verified following the standard verification procedures described in Part I of this chapter. In addition, the PHA must verify that:
 The child is eligible for care (12 or younger).
 The costs claimed are not reimbursed.
 The costs enable a family member to work, actively seek work, or further their education.  The costs are for an allowable type of childcare.
 The costs are reasonable.

Eligible Child
To be eligible for the childcare deduction, the costs must be incurred for the care of a child under the age of 13. The PHA will verify that the child being cared for (including foster children) is under the age of 13 (See 7-II.C.).

Unreimbursed Expense
To be eligible for the child care deduction, the costs must not be reimbursed by another source.

PHA Policy
The family (and the care provider) will be required to certify that the childcare expenses are not paid or reimbursed to the family from any source.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 31 Revised August 2, 2022 Pursuing an Eligible Activity
The PHA must verify that the family member(s) that the family has identified as being enabled to seek work, pursue education, or be gainfully employed, are actually pursuing those activities.

PHA Policy
Information to be Gathered
The PHA will verify information about how the schedule for the claimed activity relates to the hours of care provided, the time required for transportation, the time required for study (for students), the relationship of the family member(s) to the child, and any special needs of the child that might help determine which family member is enabled to pursue an eligible activity.

Seeking Work
Whenever possible the PHA will use documentation from a state or local agency that monitors work-related requirements (e.g., welfare or unemployment). In such cases the PHA will request family-provided verification from the agency of the member’s job seeking efforts to date and require the family to submit to the PHA any reports provided to the other agency.

In the event third-party verification is not available, the PHA will provide the family with a form on which the family member must record job search efforts. The PHA will review this information at each subsequent reexamination for which this deduction is claimed.

Furthering Education
The PHA will request third-party documentation to verify that the person permitted to further his or her education by the childcare is enrolled and provide information about the timing of classes for which the person is registered. The documentation may be provided by the family.

Gainful Employment
The PHA will seek third-party verification of the work schedule of the person who is permitted to work by the childcare. In cases in which two or more family members could be permitted to work, the work schedules for all relevant family members may be verified. The documentation may be provided by the family.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 32 Revised August 2, 2022 Allowable Type of Child Care
The type of care to be provided is determined by the family, but must fall within certain guidelines, as discussed in Chapter 6.

PHA Policy
The PHA will verify that the type of child care selected by the family is allowable, as described in Chapter 6 (6-II.F).

The PHA will verify that the fees paid to the childcare provider cover only child care costs (e.g., no housekeeping services or personal services) and are paid only for the care of an eligible child (e.g., prorate costs if some of the care is provided for ineligible family members).

The PHA will verify that the childcare provider is not an assisted family member. Verification will be made through the head of household’s declaration of family members who are expected to reside in the unit.

Reasonableness of Expenses
Only reasonable childcare costs can be deducted.

PHA Policy
The actual costs the family incurs will be compared with the PHA’s established standards of reasonableness for the type of care in the locality to ensure that the costs are reasonable.

If the family presents a justification for costs that exceed typical costs in the area, the PHA will request additional documentation, as required, to support a determination that the higher cost is appropriate.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 33 Revised August 2, 2022 EXHIBIT 7-1: SUMMARY OF DOCUMENTATION REQUIREMENTS
FOR NONCITIZENS [HCV GB, pp. 5-9 and 5-10]
 All noncitizens claiming eligible status must sign a declaration of eligible immigrant status on a form acceptable to the PHA.
 Except for persons 62 or older, all noncitizens must sign a verification consent form  Additional documents are required based upon the person's status.

Elderly Noncitizens
 A person 62 years of age or older who claims eligible immigration status also must provide proof of age such as birth certificate, passport, or documents showing receipt of SS old-age benefits.

All other Noncitizens
 Noncitizens that claim eligible immigration status also must present the applicable USCIS document. Acceptable USCIS documents are listed below.
 Form I-551 Alien Registration Receipt
Card (for permanent resident aliens)
 Form I-94 Arrival-Departure Record
annotated with one of the following:
 “Admitted as a Refugee Pursuant to
Section 207”
 “Section 208” or “Asylum”
 “Section 243(h)” or “Deportation
stayed by Attorney General”
 “Paroled Pursuant to Section 221 (d)(5)
of the USCIS”
 Form I-94 Arrival-Departure Record with
no annotation accompanied by:
 A final court decision granting asylum
(but only if no appeal is taken);
 A letter from a USCIS asylum officer
granting asylum (if application is filed
on or after 10/1/90) or from a USCIS
district director granting asylum
(application filed before 10/1/90);
 A court decision granting withholding
of deportation; or
 A letter from an asylum officer granting
withholding or deportation (if
application filed on or after 10/1/90).
 Form I-688 Temporary Resident Card
annotated “Section 245A” or Section 210”.

Form I-688B Employment Authorization Card
annotated “Provision of Law 274a. 12(11)” or
“Provision of Law 274a.12”.
 A receipt issued by the USCIS indicating that an application for issuance of a replacement document in one of the above listed categories has been made and the applicant’s entitlement to the document has been verified; or
 Other acceptable evidence. If other documents are determined by the USCIS to constitute acceptable evidence of eligible immigration status, they will be announced by notice published in the Federal Register
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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 1 Revised August 2, 2022

CHAPTER 8

HOUSING QUALITY STANDARDS AND RENT REASONABLENESS

DETERMINATIONS
[24 CFR 982 Subpart I and 24 CFR 982.507]

INTRODUCTION
HUD requires that all units occupied by families receiving Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) assistance meet HUD's Housing Quality Standards (HQS) and permits the PHA to establish additional requirements. The use of the term "HQS" in this plan refers to the combination of both HUD and PHA- established requirements.

All units must pass an HQS inspection prior to the approval of a lease and at least once every 24 months during the term of the contract, and at other times as needed, to determine that the unit meets HQS.

HUD also requires PHAs to determine that rents for units under the program are reasonable when compared to comparable unassisted units in the market area.

This chapter explains HUD and PHA requirements related to housing quality and rent reasonableness as follows:

Part I. Physical Standards. This part discusses the physical standards required of units occupied by HCV-assisted families and identifies decisions about the acceptability of the unit that may be made by the family based upon the family's preference. It also identifies life- threatening conditions that must be addressed on an expedited basis.

Part II. The Inspection Process. This part describes the types of inspections the PHA will make and the steps that will be taken when units do not meet HQS.

Part III. Rent Reasonableness Determinations. This part discusses the policies the PHA will use to make rent reasonableness determinations.

Special HQS requirements for homeownership, manufactured homes, and other special housing types are discussed in Chapter 15 to the extent that they apply in this jurisdiction.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 2 Revised August 2, 2022 PART I: PHYSICAL STANDARDS
8-I.A. GENERAL HUD REQUIREMENTS
HUD Performance and Acceptability Standards
HUD's performance and acceptability standards for HCV-assisted housing are provided in 24 CFR 982.401. These standards cover the following areas:
 Sanitary facilities
 Food preparation and refuse disposal
 Space and Security
 Thermal Environment
 Illumination and electricity
 Structure and materials
 Interior Air Quality
 Water Supply
 Lead-based paint
 Access
 Site and neighborhood
 Sanitary condition
 Smoke Detectors
A summary of HUD performance criteria is provided in Exhibit 8-1. Additional guidance on these requirements is found in the following HUD resources:
 Housing Choice Voucher Guidebook, Chapter 10.
 HUD Housing Inspection Manual for Section 8 Housing
 HUD Inspection Form, form HUD-52580 (3/01) and Inspection Checklist, form HUD-52580-A (9/00)
 HUD Notice 2003-31, Accessibility Notice: Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973; the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990; the Architectural Barriers Act of 1968 and the Fair Housing Act of 1988.

Tenant Preference Items
HUD requires the PHA to enforce minimum HQS but also recognizes that certain judgments about the acceptability of the unit are left to the family. For example, the PHA must ensure that the unit contains the required sanitary facilities, but the family decides whether the cosmetic appearance of the facilities is acceptable. Exhibit 8-2 summarizes those items that are considered tenant preferences.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 3 Revised August 2, 2022 Modifications to Provide Accessibility
Under the Fair Housing Act of 1988 an owner must not refuse the request of a family that contains a person with a disability to make necessary and reasonable modifications to the unit. Such modifications are at the family's expense. The owner may require restoration of the unit to its original condition if the modification would interfere with the owner or next occupant's full enjoyment of the premises. The owner may not increase a customarily required security deposit. However, the landlord may negotiate a restoration agreement that requires the family to restore the unit and, if necessary to ensure the likelihood of restoration, may require the tenant to pay a reasonable amount into an interest bearing escrow account over a reasonable period of time. The interest in any such account accrues to the benefit of the tenant. The owner may also require reasonable assurances that the quality of the work will be acceptable and that any required building permits will be obtained. [24 CFR 100.203; Notice 2003-31].

Modifications to units to provide access for a person with a disability must meet all applicable HQS requirements and conform to the design, construction, or alteration of facilities contained in the UFAS and the ADA Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG) [28 CFR 35.151(c) and Notice 2003-31] See Chapter 2 of this plan for additional information on reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities.

PHA Policy
Any owner that intends to negotiate a restoration agreement or require an escrow account must submit the agreement(s) to the PHA for review.
8-I.B. ADDITIONAL LOCAL REQUIREMENTS
The PHA may impose variations to the HQS as long as the additional criteria are not likely to adversely affect the health or safety of participant families or severely restrict housing choices for families. HUD approval is required for variations to the HQS. HUD approval is not required if the variations are clarifications of HUD's acceptability criteria or performance standards [24 CFR 982.401(a)(4)].

Thermal Environment [HCV GB p.10-7]
The PHA must define a “healthy living environment” for the local climate. This may be done by establishing a temperature that the heating system must be capable of maintaining, that is appropriate for the local climate.

PHA Policy
The heating system must be capable of maintaining an interior temperature of 65 degrees Fahrenheit between October 1 and May 1.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 4 Revised August 2, 2022 Clarifications of HUD Requirements
PHA Policy
As permitted by HUD, the PHA has adopted the following specific requirements that elaborate on HUD standards.

Walls
In areas where plaster or drywall is sagging, severely cracked, or otherwise damaged, it must be repaired or replaced.

Windows
Window sashes must be in good condition, solid and intact, and properly fitted to the window frame. Damaged or deteriorated sashes must be replaced.

Windows must be weather-stripped as needed to ensure a weather-tight seal.

Window screens must be in good condition (applies only if screens are present).

Doors
All exterior doors must be weather-tight to avoid any air or water infiltration, be lockable, have no holes, have all trim intact, and have a threshold.

All interior doors must have no holes, have all trim intact, and be openable without the use of a key.

Floors
All wood floors must be sanded to a smooth surface and sealed. Any loose or warped boards must be resecured and made level. If they cannot be leveled, they must be replaced.

All floors must be in a finished state. Raw wood or unsealed concrete is not permitted.

All floors should have some type of base shoe, trim, or sealing for a "finished look." Vinyl base shoe is permitted.

Sinks
All sinks and commode water lines must have shut off valves, unless faucets are wall mounted.

All sinks must have functioning stoppers.

Toilets
All worn or cracked toilet seats and tank lids must be replaced and toilet tank lid must fit properly.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 5 Revised August 2, 2022 Security
If window security bars or security screens are present on emergency exit windows, they must be equipped with a quick release system. The owner is responsible for ensuring that the family is instructed on the use of the quick release system. 8-I.C. LIFE-THREATENING CONDITIONS [24 CFR 982.404(a); FR Notice 1/18/17] HUD requires the PHA to define life-threatening conditions and to notify the owner or the family (whichever is responsible) of the corrections required. The responsible party must correct life- threatening conditions within 24 hours of PHA notification.

PHA Policy
The following are considered life-threatening conditions:

Any condition that jeopardizes the security of the unit Major plumbing leaks or flooding, waterlogged ceiling, or floor in imminent danger of falling
Natural or LP gas or fuel oil leaks
A fuel storage vessel, fluid line, valve, or connection that supplies fuel to a HVAC unit is leaking or a strong odor is detected with potential for explosion or fire or that results in a health risk if inhaled
Any electrical problem or condition that could result in shock or fire A light fixture is readily accessible, is not securely mounted to the ceiling or wall, and electrical connections or wires are exposed
A light fixture is hanging by its wires
A light fixture has a missing or broken bulb, and the open socket is readily accessible to the tenant during the day-to-day use of the unit A receptacle (outlet) or switch is missing or broken and electrical connections or wires are exposed
An open circuit breaker position is not appropriately blanked off in a panel board, main panel board, or other electrical box that contains circuit breakers or fuses A cover is missing from any electrical device box, panel box, switch gear box, control panel, etc., and there are exposed electrical connections Any nicks, abrasions, or fraying of the insulation that exposes conducting wire Exposed bare wires or electrical connections
Any condition that results in openings in electrical panels or electrical control device enclosures
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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 6 Revised August 2, 2022 Water leaking or ponding near any electrical device
Any condition that poses a serious risk of electrocution or fire and poses an immediate life-threatening condition
Absence of a working heating system when outside temperature is below 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Utilities not in service, including no running hot water Conditions that present the imminent possibility of injury Obstacles that prevent safe entrance or exit from the unit Any components that affect the function of the fire escape are missing or damaged
Stored items or other barriers restrict or prevent the use of the fire escape in the event of an emergency
The building’s emergency exit is blocked or impeded, thus limiting the ability of occupants to exit in a fire or other emergency
Absence of a functioning toilet in the unit
Inoperable or missing smoke detectors
Missing or inoperable carbon monoxide detector
Missing, damaged, discharged, overcharged, or expired fire extinguisher (where required) Gas/oil-fired water heater or heating, ventilation, or cooling system with missing, damaged, improper, or misaligned chimney venting
The chimney or venting system on a fuel-fired water heater is misaligned, negatively pitched, or damaged, which may cause improper or dangerous venting or gases
A gas dryer vent is missing, damaged, or is visually determined to be inoperable, or the dryer exhaust is not vented to the outside
A fuel-fired space heater is not properly vented or lacks available combustion air A non-vented space heater is present
Safety devices on a fuel-fired space heater are missing or damaged The chimney or venting system on a fuel-fired heating, ventilation, or cooling system is misaligned, negatively pitched, or damaged, which may cause improper or dangerous venting of gas
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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 7 Revised August 2, 2022 Deteriorating paint as defined at 24 CFR 35.110 in a unit built before 1978 that is to be occupied by a family with a child under six years of age if it would prevent the family from moving into the unit
If an owner fails to correct life-threatening conditions as required by the PHA, the PHA will enforce the HQS in accordance with HUD requirements. See 8-II-G.

If a family fails to correct a family-caused life-threatening condition as required by the PHA, the PHA will enforce the family obligations. See 8-II.H.

The owner will be required to repair an inoperable smoke detector unless the PHA determines that the family has intentionally disconnected it (by removing batteries or other means). In this case, the family will be required to repair the smoke detector within 24 hours. 8-I.D. OWNER AND FAMILY RESPONSIBILITIES [24 CFR 982.404] Family Responsibilities
The family is responsible for correcting the following HQS deficiencies:
 Tenant-paid utilities not in service
 Failure to provide or maintain appliances owned by the family  Damage to the unit or premises caused by a household member or guest beyond normal wear and tear that results in a breach of the HQS. "Normal wear and tear" is defined as items which could not be charged against the tenant's security deposit under state law or court practice.

Owner Responsibilities
The owner is responsible for all HQS violations not listed as a family responsibility above, even if the violation is caused by the family's living habits (e.g., vermin infestation). However, if the family's actions constitute a serious or repeated lease violation the owner may take legal action to evict the family.
8-I.E. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR CHILDREN WITH ELEVATED BLOOD LEAD LEVEL [24 CFR 35.1225; FR Notice 1/13/17; Notice PIH 2017-13] If a PHA is notified by a public health department or other medical health care provider, or verifies information from a source other than a public health department or medical health care provider, that a child of less than six years of age, living in an HCV-assisted unit has been identified as having an elevated blood lead level, the PHA must complete an environmental investigation of the dwelling unit within 15 calendar days after being notified by a public health department or other medical health care provider. The environmental investigation must be completed in accordance with program requirements, and the result of the environmental investigation must be immediately provided to the owner of the dwelling unit. In cases where the public health department has already completed an evaluation of the unit, this information must be provided to the owner.

Within 30 days after receiving the environmental investigation report from the PHA, or the evaluation from the public health department, the owner is required to complete the reduction of identified lead- based paint hazards in accordance with the lead-based paint regulations [24 CFR 35.1325 and 35.1330; Packet Page 220 of 1050Attachment 2 Page 192 of 487

HCV Administrative Plan

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 8 Revised August 2, 2022 40 CFR 745.227]. If the owner does not complete the “hazard reduction” as required, the dwelling unit is in violation of HQS and the PHA will take action in accordance with Section 8-II.G.

PHA reporting requirements, and data collection and record keeping responsibilities related to children with an elevated blood lead level are discussed in Chapter 16. 8-I.F. VIOLATION OF HQS SPACE STANDARDS [24 CFR 982.401, 24 CFR 982.403] A dwelling unit must:
 Provide adequate space and security for the family
 Have at least one bedroom or living/sleeping room for each two persons A unit that does not meet these HQS space standards is defined as overcrowded.

A living room may be used as sleeping (bedroom) space, but no more than two persons may occupy the space [HCV GB p. 10-6]. A bedroom or living/sleeping room must have at least:
 One window
 Two electrical outlets in proper operating condition (permanent overhead or wall-mounted light fixtures may count as one of the required electrical outlets) If the PHA determines that a unit is overcrowded because of an increase in family size or a change in family composition, the PHA must issue the family a new voucher, and the family and PHA must try to find an acceptable unit as soon as possible. If an acceptable unit is available for rental by the family, the PHA must terminate the HAP contract in accordance with its terms.

PART II: THE INSPECTION PROCESS
8-II.A. OVERVIEW [24 CFR 982.405]
Types of Inspections
The PHA conducts the following types of inspections as needed. Each type of inspection is discussed in the paragraphs that follow.
 Initial Inspections. The PHA conducts initial inspections in response to a request from the family to approve a unit for participation in the HCV program.
 Annual/Biennial Inspections. HUD requires the PHA to inspect each unit under lease at least annually or biennially, depending on PHA policy, to confirm that the unit still meets HQS. The inspection may be conducted in conjunction with the family's annual reexamination but also may be conducted separately.
 Special Inspections. A special inspection may be requested by the owner, the family, or a third party as a result of problems identified with a unit between annual inspections.  Quality Control Inspections. HUD requires that a sample of units be inspected by a supervisor or other qualified individual to evaluate the work of the inspector(s) and to ensure that inspections are performed in compliance with the HQS.

Inspection of PHA-Owned Units [24 CFR 982.352(b)]
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HCV Administrative Plan

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 9 Revised August 2, 2022 The PHA must obtain the services of an independent entity to perform all HQS inspections in cases where an HCV family is receiving assistance in a PHA-owned unit. A PHA-owned unit is defined as a unit that is owned by the PHA that administers the assistance under the consolidated ACC (including a unit owned by an entity substantially controlled by the PHA). The independent agency must communicate the results of each inspection to the family and the PHA. The independent agency must be approved b y HUD and may be the unit of general local government for the PHA jurisdiction (unless the PHA is itself the unit of general local government or an agency of such government).

Inspection Costs [Notice PIH 2016-05]
The PHA may not charge the family for unit inspections or reinspections [24 CFR 982.405(e)]. In the case of inspections of PHA-owned units, the PHA may compensate the independent agency from ongoing administrative fee for inspections performed. The PHA and the independent agency may not charge the family any fee or charge for the inspection [24 CFR.982.352(b)].

The PHA may not charge the owner for the inspection of the unit prior to the initial term of the lease or for a first inspection during assisted occupancy of the unit. However, the PHA may charge a reasonable fee to owners for reinspections in two situations: when the owner notifies the PHA that a repair has been made but the deficiency has not been corrected, and when the time for repairs has elapsed and the deficiency has not been corrected. Fees may not be imposed for tenant-caused damages, for cases in which the inspector could not gain access to the unit, or for new deficiencies discovered during a reinspection.

The owner may not pass the cost of a reinspection fee to the family. Reinspection fees must be added to the PHA’s administrative fee reserves and may only be used for activities related to the provision of tenant-based assistance.

PHA Policy
The PHA will not charge a fee for failed reinspections.

Remote Video Inspections (RVIs) [Notice PIH 2020-31]
As an alternative to some or all on-site inspections, the PHA may, but is not required to, perform HQS inspections from a remote location using video streaming technology and a proxy at the inspection site.

Since there may be some circumstances in which the application of technology provides insufficient information or evidence to allow the PHA to make appropriate determinations about whether a condition violates HQS, Notice PIH 2020-31 requires that if a PHA chooses to implement RVIs, the PHA should have policies and procedures in place to address such limitations.

PHA Policy
The PHA will not conduct any HQS inspection using RVI.

Notice and Scheduling
The family must allow the PHA to inspect the unit at reasonable times with reasonable notice [24 CFR 982.551(d)].

PHA Policy
Both the family and the owner will be given reasonable notice of all inspections. Except in the case of a life-threatening emergency, reasonable notice is considered to be not less than 48 hours.

Inspections may be scheduled between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Generally, inspections will be Packet Page 222 of 1050Attachment 2 Page 194 of 487

HCV Administrative Plan

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 10 Revised August 2, 2022 conducted on business days only. In the case of a life-threatening emergency, the PHA will give as much notice as possible, given the nature of the emergency.

Owner and Family Inspection Attendance
HUD permits the PHA to set policy regarding family and owner presence at the time of inspection [HCV GB p. 10-27].

PHA Policy
When a family occupies the unit at the time of inspection an authorized adult must be present for the inspection. The presence of the owner or the owner's representative is encouraged but is not required.

At initial inspection of a vacant unit, the PHA will inspect the unit in the presence of the owner or owner’s representative. The presence of a family representative is permitted but is not required.
8-II.B. INITIAL HQS INSPECTION [24 CFR 982.401(a)]
Initial Inspections [FR Notice 1/18/17]
The PHA may, but is not required to, approve assisted tenancy, and start HAP if the unit fails HQS inspection, but only if the deficiencies identified are non-life-threatening. Further, the PHA may, but is not required to, authorize occupancy if a unit passed an alternative inspection in the last 24 months.

PHA Policy
The unit must pass the HQS inspection on or before the effective date of the HAP contract.

The PHA will not rely on alternative inspections and will conduct an HQS inspection for each unit prior to executing a HAP contract with the owner.

Timing of Initial Inspections
HUD requires PHAs with fewer than 1,250 budgeted units to complete the initial inspection, determine whether the unit satisfies HQS, and notify the owner and the family of the determination within 15 days of submission of the Request for Tenancy Approval (RTA). For PHAs with 1,250 or more budgeted units, to the extent practicable such inspection and determination must be completed within 15 days. The 15-day period is suspended for any period during which the unit is not available for inspection [982.305(b)(2)].

PHA Policy
The PHA will complete the initial inspection, determine whether the unit satisfies HQS, and notify the owner and the family of the determination within 15 days of submission of the Request for Tenancy Approval (RTA).

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 11 Revised August 2, 2022 Inspection Results and Reinspections
PHA Policy
If any HQS violations are identified, the owner will be notified of the deficiencies and be given a time frame to correct them. If requested by the owner, the time frame for correcting the deficiencies may be extended by the PHA for good cause. The PHA will reinspect the unit within five business days of the date the owner notifies the PHA that the required corrections have been made.

If the time period for correcting the deficiencies (or any PHA-approved extension) has elapsed, or the unit fails HQS at the time of the reinspection, the PHA will notify the owner and the family that the unit has been rejected and that the family must search for another unit. The PHA may agree to conduct a second reinspection, for good cause, at the request of the family and owner.

Following a failed reinspection, the family may submit a new Request for Tenancy Approval for the same unit after the owner has made repairs, if they are unable to locate another suitable unit.

Utilities
Generally, at initial lease-up the owner is responsible for demonstrating that all utilities are in working order including those utilities that the family will be responsible for paying.

PHA Policy
If utility service is not available for testing at the time of the initial inspection, the PHA will allow the utilities to be placed in service after the unit has met all other HQS requirements. The PHA will reinspect the unit to confirm that utilities are operational before the HAP contract is executed by the PHA.

Appliances [Form HUD-52580]
PHA Policy
If the family is responsible for supplying the stove and/or refrigerator, the PHA will allow the stove and refrigerator to be placed in the unit after the unit has met all other HQS requirements.

The required appliances must be in place before the HAP contract is executed by the PHA. The PHA will execute the HAP contract based upon a certification from the family that the appliances have been installed and are working. A confirmatory inspection will be scheduled within 30 days of HAP contract approval.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 12 Revised August 2, 2022 8-II.C. ANNUAL/BIENNIAL HQS INSPECTIONS [24 CFR 982.405 and 982.406; Notice PIH 2016-05]
PHA Policy
Each unit under HAP contract must be inspected biennially within 24 months of the last full HQS inspection. The PHA reserves the right to require annual inspections of any unit or owner at any time.

The PHA will not rely on alternative inspection standards.

Scheduling the Inspection
PHA Policy
If an adult cannot be present on the scheduled date, the family should request that the PHA reschedule the inspection. The PHA and family will agree on a new inspection date that generally should take place within five business days of the originally scheduled date. The PHA may schedule an inspection more than five business days after the original date for good cause.

If the family misses the first scheduled appointment without requesting a new inspection date, the PHA will automatically schedule a second inspection. If the family misses two scheduled inspections without PHA approval, the PHA will consider the family to have violated its obligation to make the unit available for inspection. This may result in termination of the family’s assistance in accordance with Chapter 12.
8-II.D. SPECIAL INSPECTIONS [24 CFR 982.405(g)]
If a participant or government official reports a life-threatening condition which the owner would be required to repair within 24 hours, the PHA must inspect the unit within 24 hours of notification. If the reported condition is not life-threatening, the PHA must inspect the unit within 15 days of notification.

PHA Policy
During a special inspection, the PHA generally will inspect only those deficiencies that were reported. However, the inspector will record any additional HQS deficiencies that are observed and will require the responsible party to make the necessary repairs.

If the annual/biennial inspection has been scheduled or is due within 90 days of the date the special inspection is scheduled the PHA may elect to conduct a full annual/biennial inspection.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 13 Revised August 2, 2022 8-II.E. QUALITY CONTROL INSPECTIONS [24 CFR 982.405(b); 24 CFR 985.3(e); HCV GB, p. 10-32]
HUD requires a PHA supervisor or other qualified person to conduct quality control inspections of a sample of units to ensure that each inspector is conducting accurate and complete inspections and that there is consistency in the application of the HQS.

The unit sample must include only units that have been inspected within the preceding three months.

The selected sample should be drawn to represent a cross section of neighborhoods and the work of a cross section of inspectors.
8-II.F. INSPECTION RESULTS AND REINSPECTIONS FOR UNITS UNDER HAP

CONTRACT
Notification of Corrective Actions
The owner and the family will be notified in writing of the results of all inspections. When an inspection identifies HQS failures, the PHA will determine (1) whether or not the failure is a life-threatening condition and (2) whether the family or owner is responsible.

PHA Policy
When life-threatening conditions are identified, the PHA will immediately notify both parties by telephone or email. The notice will specify who is responsible for correcting the violation. The corrective actions must be taken within 24 hours of the PHA’s notice.

When failures that are not life-threatening are identified, the PHA will send the owner and the family a written notification of the inspection results within two business days of the inspection.

The written notice will specify who is responsible for correcting the violation, and the time frame within which the failure must be corrected. Failed items will be required to be corrected within 30 days.

The notice of inspection results will inform the owner that if life-threatening conditions are not corrected within 24 hours, and non-life-threatening conditions are not corrected within 30 days (or any PHA-approved extension), the owner’s HAP will be abated in accordance with PHA policy (see 8-II.G.).

Likewise, in the case of family caused deficiencies, the notice will inform the family that if corrections are not made within the specified time frame (or any PHA-approved extension, if applicable) the family’s assistance will be terminated in accordance with PHA policy (see Chapter 12).

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 14 Revised August 2, 2022 Extensions
For conditions that are life-threatening, the PHA cannot grant an extension to the 24-hour corrective action period. For conditions that are not life-threatening, the PHA may grant an exception to the required time frames for correcting the violation, if the PHA determines that an extension is appropriate [24 CFR 982.404].

PHA Policy
Extensions will be granted in cases where the PHA has determined that the owner has made a good faith effort to correct the deficiencies and is unable to for reasons beyond the owner’s control. Reasons may include, but are not limited to:

A repair cannot be completed because required parts or services are not available.

A repair cannot be completed because of weather conditions.

A reasonable accommodation is needed because the family includes a person with disabilities.

The length of the extension will be determined on a case-by-case basis, but will not exceed 60 days, except in the case of delays caused by weather conditions. In the case of weather conditions, extensions may be continued until the weather has improved sufficiently to make repairs possible. The necessary repairs must be made within 15 calendar days once the weather conditions have subsided.

Reinspections
PHA Policy
For life-threatening deficiencies, the PHA will conduct a reinspection immediately following the end of the corrective period. For non-life-threatening deficiencies, at the PHA’s discretion, the PHA may conduct a physical reinspection. The PHA may also accept the owner or tenant’s verbal or written self-certification that deficiencies have been corrected. Physical reinspections will typically be conducted if the owner or family have a history of noncompliance, or if the same deficiency has been noted on previous inspections.

The family and owner will be given reasonable notice of the reinspection appointment. If the deficiencies have not been corrected by the time of the reinspection, the PHA will send a notice of abatement to the owner, or in the case of family caused violations, a notice of termination to the family, in accordance with PHA policies. If the PHA is unable to gain entry to the unit in order to conduct the scheduled reinspection, the PHA will consider the family to have violated its obligation to make the unit available for inspection. This may result in termination of the family’s assistance in accordance with Chapter 12.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 15 Revised August 2, 2022 8-II.G. ENFORCING OWNER COMPLIANCE
If the owner fails to maintain the dwelling unit in accordance with HQS, the PHA must take prompt and vigorous action to enforce the owner obligations.

HAP Abatement
If an owner fails to correct HQS deficiencies by the time specified by the PHA, HUD requires the PHA to abate housing assistance payments no later than the first of the month following the specified correction period (including any approved extension) [24 CFR 985.3(f)]. No retroactive payments will be made to the owner for the period of time the rent was abated. Owner rents are not abated as a result of HQS failures that are the family's responsibility.

PHA Policy
The PHA will make all HAP abatements effective the first of the month following the expiration of the PHA specified correction period (including any extension).

The PHA will inspect abated units within five business days of the owner's notification that the work has been completed. Payment will resume effective on the day the owner notified the PHA that the repairs have been made, provided the inspection passes.

During any abatement period the family continues to be responsible for its share of the rent. The owner must not seek payment from the family for abated amounts and may not use the abatement as cause for eviction.

HAP Contract Termination
The PHA must decide how long any abatement period will continue before the HAP contract will be terminated. The PHA should not terminate the contract until the family finds another unit, provided the family does so in a reasonable time [HCV GB p. 10-29] and must give the owner reasonable notice of the termination. The PHA will issue a voucher to permit the family to move to another unit as described in Chapter 10.

PHA Policy
The maximum length of time that HAP may be abated is 90 days. However, if the owner completes corrections and notifies the PHA before the termination date of the HAP contract, the PHA may rescind the termination notice if (1) the family still resides in the unit and wishes to remain in the unit and (2) the unit passes inspection.

Reasonable notice of HAP contract termination by the PHA is 30 days. 8-II.H. ENFORCING FAMILY COMPLIANCE WITH HQS [24 CFR 982.404(b)] Families are responsible for correcting any HQS violations listed in paragraph 8.I.D. If the family fails to correct a violation within the period allowed by the PHA (and any extensions), the PHA will terminate the family’s assistance, according to the policies described in Chapter 12.

If the owner carries out a repair for which the family is responsible under the lease, the owner may bill the family for the cost of the repair.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 16 Revised August 2, 2022 PART III: RENT REASONABLENESS [24 CFR 982.507]
8-III.A. OVERVIEW
Except in the case of certain LIHTC- and HOME-assisted units, no HAP contract can be approved until the PHA has determined that the rent for the unit is reasonable. The purpose of the rent reasonableness test is to ensure that a fair rent is paid for each unit rented under the HCV program.

HUD regulations define a reasonable rent as one that does not exceed the rent charged for comparable, unassisted units in the same market area. HUD also requires that owners not charge more for assisted units than for comparable units on the premises. This part explains the method used to determine whether a unit’s rent is reasonable.

PHA-Owned Units [24 CFR 982.352(b)]
In cases where an HCV family is receiving assistance in a PHA-owned unit, the PHA must obtain the services of an independent entity to determine rent reasonableness in accordance with program requirements, and to assist the family in negotiating the contract rent when the family requests assistance. A PHA-owned unit is defined as a unit that is owned by the PHA that administers the assistance under the consolidated ACC (including a unit owned by an entity substantially controlled by the PHA). The independent agency must communicate the results of the rent reasonableness determination to the family and the PHA. The independent agency must be approved by HUD, and may be the unit of general local government for the PHA jurisdiction (unless the PHA is itself the unit of general local government or an agency of such government). 8-III.B. WHEN RENT REASONABLENESS DETERMINATIONS ARE REQUIRED Owner-Initiated Rent Determinations
The PHA must make a rent reasonableness determination at initial occupancy and whenever the owner requests a rent adjustment.

The owner and family first negotiate the rent for a unit. The PHA (or independent agency in the case of PHA-owned units) will assist the family with the negotiations upon request. At initial occupancy the PHA must determine whether the proposed rent is reasonable before a HAP Contract is signed. The owner must not change the rent during the initial lease term. Subsequent requests for rent adjustments must be consistent with the lease between the owner and the family. Rent increases will not be approved unless any failed items identified by the most recent HQS inspection have been corrected.

PHA Policy
After the initial occupancy period, the owner may request a rent adjustment in accordance with the owner’s lease. For rent increase requests after initial lease-up, the PHA may request owners to provide information about the rents charged for other units on the premises, if the premises include more than 4 units. In evaluating the proposed rents in comparison to other units on the premises the PHA will consider unit size and length of tenancy in the other units.

The PHA will determine whether the requested increase is reasonable within 10 business days of receiving the request from the owner. The owner will be notified of the determination in writing.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 17 Revised August 2, 2022 All rents adjustments will be effective the first of the month following 60 days after the PHA’s receipt of the owner’s request or on the date specified by the owner, whichever is later.

PHA and HUD-Initiated Rent Reasonableness Determinations HUD requires the PHA to make a determination of rent reasonableness (even if the owner has not requested a change) if there is a 10 percent decrease in the fair market rent that goes into effect at least 60 days before the contract anniversary date. HUD also may direct the PHA to make a determination at any other time. The PHA may decide that a new determination of rent reasonableness is needed at any time.

PHA Policy
In addition to the instances described above, the PHA will make a determination of rent reasonableness at any time after the initial occupancy period if: (1) the PHA determines that the initial rent reasonableness determination was in error or (2) the PHA determines that the information provided by the owner about the unit or other units on the same premises was incorrect.

LIHTC and HOME-Assisted Units [24 CFR 982.507(c)]
For units receiving low-income housing tax credits (LIHTCs) or units assisted under HUD’s HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) Program, a rent comparison with unassisted units is not required if the voucher rent does not exceed the rent for other LIHTC- or HOME-assisted units in the project that are not occupied by families with tenant-based assistance.

For LIHTCs, if the rent requested by the owner does exceed the LIHTC rents for non-voucher families, the PHA must perform a rent comparability study in accordance with program regulations. In such cases, the rent shall not exceed the lesser of: (1) the reasonable rent as determined from the rent comparability study; or (2) the payment standard established by the PHA for the unit size involved. 8-III.C. HOW COMPARABILITY IS ESTABLISHED
Factors to Consider
HUD requires PHAs to take into consideration the factors listed below when determining rent comparability. The PHA may use these factors to make upward or downward adjustments to the rents of comparison units when the units are not identical to the HCV-assisted unit.  Location and age
 Unit size including the number of rooms and square footage of rooms  The type of unit including construction type (e.g., single family, duplex, garden, low-rise, high-rise)  The quality of the units including the quality of the original construction, maintenance and improvements made
 Amenities, services, and utilities included in the rent Units that Must Not Be Used as Comparables
Comparable units must represent unrestricted market rents. Therefore, units that receive some form of federal, state, or local assistance that imposes rent restrictions cannot be considered comparable units.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 18 Revised August 2, 2022 These include units assisted by HUD through any of the following programs: Section 8 project-based assistance, Section 236 and Section 221(d)(3) Below Market Interest Rate (BMIR) projects, HOME or Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program-assisted units in which the rents are subsidized; units subsidized through federal, state, or local tax credits; units subsidized by the Department of Agriculture rural housing programs, and units that are rent-controlled by local ordinance [Notice PIH 2002-22, Notice PIH 2005-20, and Notice PIH 2020-19].

Note: Notice PIH 2020-19, issued August 21, 2020, provides further guidance on the issue of what constitutes an assisted unit.

Rents Charged for Other Units on the Premises
The Request for Tenancy Approval (HUD-52517) requires owners to provide information, on the form itself, about the rent charged for other unassisted comparable units on the premises if the premises include more than 4 units.

By accepting the PHA payment each month the owner certifies that the rent is not more than the rent charged for comparable unassisted units on the premises. If asked to do so, the owner must give the PHA information regarding rents charged for other units on the premises. 8-III.D . PHA RENT REASONABLENESS METHODOLOGY
How Market Data Is Collected
PHA Policy
The PHA will collect and maintain data on market rents in the PHA's jurisdiction. Information sources include newspapers, realtors, market surveys, inquiries of owners and other available sources. The data will be maintained by bedroom size and market areas. Market areas may be defined by zip codes, census tract, neighborhood, and identifiable natural or man-made boundaries. The data will be updated on an ongoing basis and rent information that is more than 12 months old will be eliminated from the database.

How Rents Are Determined
PHA Policy
The PHA will primarily utilize www.AffordableHousing.com which will collect and maintain data on market rents in the PHA's jurisdiction. Information sources include newspapers, realtors, market surveys, inquiries of owners and other available sources. The data will be maintained by bedroom size and market areas. Market areas may be defined by zip codes.

The data will be updated on an ongoing basis and rent information that is more than 12 months old will be archived in www.AffordableHousing.com . Market Rent Data greater than 12 months old will not be used for eligibility but may be used for reference.

Adjustments may vary by unit type (e.g., a second bathroom may be more valuable in a three- bedroom unit than in a two-bedroom).

The adjustment must reflect the rental value of the difference—not its construction costs (e.g., it might cost $20,000 to put on a new roof, but the new roof might not make any difference in what a tenant would be willing to pay because rental units are presumed to have functioning roofs).

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HCV Administrative Plan

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 19 Revised August 2, 2022 When a comparable project offers rent concessions (e.g., first month rent-free, or reduced rent) reported monthly rents will be adjusted accordingly. For example, if a comparable project reports rents of $500/month but new tenants receive the first month's rent free, the actual rent for the unit would be calculated as follows: $500 x 11 months = 5500/12 months = actual monthly rent of $488.

The PHA will notify the owner of the rent the PHA can approve based upon its analysis of rents for comparable units. The owner may submit information about other comparable units in the market area. The PHA will confirm the accuracy of the information provided and consider this additional information when making rent determinations. The owner must submit any additional information within five business days of the PHA’s request for information or the owner’s request to submit information.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 20 Revised August 2, 2022 EXHIBIT 8-1: OVERVIEW OF HUD HOUSING QUALITY STANDARDS
Note: This document provides an overview of HQS. For more detailed information see the following documents:
 24 CFR 982.401, Housing Quality Standards (HQS)
 Housing Choice Voucher Guidebook, Chapter 10.
 HUD Housing Inspection Manual for Section 8 Housing
 HUD Inspection Form, form HUD-52580 (3/01) and Inspection Checklist, form HUD-52580-A (9/00)
Sanitary Facilities
The dwelling unit must include sanitary facilities within the unit. The sanitary facilities must be usable in privacy and must be in proper operating condition and adequate for personal cleanliness and disposal of human waste.

Food Preparation and Refuse Disposal
The dwelling unit must have space and equipment suitable for the family to store, prepare, and serve food in a sanitary manner.

Space and Security
The dwelling unit must provide adequate space and security for the family. This includes having at least one bedroom or living/sleeping room for each two persons.

Thermal Environment
The unit must have a safe system for heating the dwelling unit. Air conditioning is not required but if provided must be in proper operating condition. The dwelling unit must not contain unvented room heaters that burn gas, oil, or kerosene. Portable electric room heaters or kitchen stoves with built-in heating units are not acceptable as a primary source of heat for units located in climatic areas where permanent heat systems are required.

Illumination and Electricity
Each room must have adequate natural or artificial illumination to permit normal indoor activities and to support the health and safety of occupants. The dwelling unit must have sufficient electrical sources so occupants can use essential electrical appliances. Minimum standards are set for different types of rooms. Once the minimum standards are met, the number, type and location of electrical sources are a matter of tenant preference.

Structure and Materials
The dwelling unit must be structurally sound. Handrails are required when four or more steps (risers) are present, and protective railings are required when porches, balconies, and stoops are thirty inches or more off the ground. The elevator servicing the unit must be working [if there is one]. Manufactured homes must have proper tie-down devices capable of surviving wind loads common to the area.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 21 Revised August 2, 2022 Interior Air Quality
The dwelling unit must be free of air pollutant levels that threaten the occupants’ health. There must be adequate air circulation in the dwelling unit. Bathroom areas must have one openable window or other adequate ventilation. Any sleeping room must have at least one window. If a window was designed to be opened, it must be in proper working order.

Water Supply
The dwelling unit must be served by an approved public or private water supply that is sanitary and free from contamination. Plumbing fixtures and pipes must be free of leaks and threats to health and safety.

Lead-Based Paint
Lead-based paint requirements apply to dwelling units built prior to 1978 that are occupied or can be occupied by families with children under six years of age, excluding zero bedroom dwellings. Owners must:
 Disclose known lead-based paint hazards to prospective tenants before the lease is signed,  provide all prospective families with "Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home",  Stabilize deteriorated painted surfaces and conduct hazard reduction activities within 30 days when identified by the PHA
 Notify tenants each time such an activity is performed  Conduct all work in accordance with HUD safe practices  As part of ongoing maintenance ask each family to report deteriorated paint  Maintain covered housing without deteriorated paint if there is child under six in the family For units occupied by elevated blood lead level (lead poisoned) children under six years of age, an environmental investigation must be conducted (paid for by the PHA). If lead hazards are identified during the environmental investigation, the owner must complete hazard reduction activities within 30 days.

See HCV GB p. 10-15 for a detailed description of these requirements. For additional information on lead-based paint requirements see 24 CFR 35, Subparts A, B, M, and R.

Access
Use and maintenance of the unit must be possible without unauthorized use of other private properties.

The building must provide an alternate means of exit in case of fire.

Site and Neighborhood
The site and neighborhood must be reasonably free from disturbing noises and reverberations, excessive trash or vermin, or other dangers to the health, safety, and general welfare of the occupants.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 22 Revised August 2, 2022 Sanitary Condition
The dwelling unit and its equipment must be in sanitary condition and free of vermin and rodent infestation. The unit must have adequate barriers to prevent infestation.

Smoke Detectors
Smoke detectors must be installed in accordance with and meet the requirements of the National Fire Protection Association Standard (NFPA) 74 (or its successor standards). If the dwelling unit is occupied by any person with a hearing impairment, smoke detectors must have an appropriate alarm system as specified in NFPA 74 (or successor standards).

Hazards and Heath/Safety
The unit, interior and exterior common areas accessible to the family, the site, and the surrounding neighborhood must be free of hazards to the family's health and safety.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 23 Revised August 2, 2022 EXHIBIT 8-2: SUMMARY OF TENANT PREFERENCE AREAS

RELATED TO HOUSING QUALITY
Note: This document provides an overview of unit and site characteristics and conditions for which the family determines acceptability. For more detailed information see the following documents:
 Housing Choice Voucher Guidebook, Chapter 10.
 HUD Housing Inspection Manual for Section 8 Housing
 HUD Inspection Form, form HUD-52580 (3/01) and Inspection Checklist, form HUD-52580-A (9/00)
Provided the minimum housing quality standards have been met, HUD permits the family to determine whether the unit is acceptable with regard to the following characteristics.  Sanitary Facilities. The family may determine the adequacy of the cosmetic condition and quality of the sanitary facilities, including the size of the lavatory, tub, or shower; the location of the sanitary facilities within the unit; and the adequacy of the water heater.  Food Preparation and Refuse Disposal. The family selects size and type of equipment it finds acceptable. When the family is responsible for supplying cooking appliances, the family may choose to use a microwave oven in place of a conventional oven, stove, or range. When the owner is responsible for providing cooking appliances, the owner may offer a microwave oven in place of an oven, stove, or range only if other subsidized and unsubsidized units on the premises are furnished with microwave ovens only. The adequacy of the amount and type of storage space, the cosmetic conditions of all equipment, and the size and location of the kitchen are all determined by the family.  Space and Security. The family may determine the adequacy of room sizes and room locations. The family is also responsible for deciding the acceptability of the type of door and window locks.  Energy conservation items. The family may determine whether the amount of insulation, presence of absence of storm doors and windows and other energy conservation items are acceptable.  Illumination and Electricity. The family may determine whether the location and the number of outlets and fixtures (over and above those required to meet HQS standards) are acceptable or if the amount of electrical service is adequate for the use of appliances, computers, or stereo equipment.Structure and Materials. Families may determine whether minor defects, such as lack of paint, or worn flooring or carpeting will affect the livability of the unit.  Indoor Air. Families may determine whether window and door screens, filters, fans, or other devices for proper ventilation are adequate to meet the family’s needs. However, if screens are present they must be in good condition.
 Sanitary Conditions. The family determines whether the sanitary conditions in the unit, including minor infestations, are acceptable.
 Neighborhood conditions. Families may determine whether neighborhood conditions such as the presence of drug activity, commercial enterprises, and convenience to shopping will affect the livability of the unit.

Families have no discretion with respect to lead-based paint standards and smoke detectors.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 1 Revised August 2, 2022

CHAPTER 9

GENERAL LEASING POLICIES

INTRODUCTION
Chapter 9 covers the lease-up process from the family's submission of a Request for Tenancy Approval to execution of the HAP contract.

In order for the PHA to assist a family in a particular dwelling unit, or execute a Housing Assistance Payments (HAP) contract with the owner of a dwelling unit, the PHA must determine that all the following program requirements are met:
 The unit itself must qualify as an eligible unit [24 CFR 982.305(a)]  The unit must be inspected by the PHA and meet the Housing Quality Standards (HQS) [24 CFR 982.305(a)]
 The lease offered by the owner must be approvable and must include the required Tenancy Addendum [24 CFR 982.305(a)]
 The rent to be charged by the owner for the unit must be reasonable [24 CFR 982.305(a)]  The owner must be an eligible owner, approvable by the PHA, with no conflicts of interest [24 CFR 982.306]
 For families initially leasing a unit only: Where the gross rent of the unit exceeds the applicable payment standard for the family, the share of rent to be paid by the family cannot exceed 40 percent of the family’s monthly adjusted income [24 CFR 982.305(a)]

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HCV Administrative Plan

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 2 Revised August 2, 2022 9-I.A. TENANT SCREENING
The PHA has no liability or responsibility to the owner or other persons for the family’s behavior or suitability for tenancy [24 CFR 982.307(a)(1)].

The PHA may elect to screen applicants for family behavior or suitability for tenancy. See Chapter 3 for a discussion of the PHA’s policies with regard to screening applicant families for program eligibility [24 CFR 982.307(a)(1)].

The owner is responsible for screening and selection of the family to occupy the owner’s unit. At or before PHA approval of the tenancy, the PHA must inform the owner that screening and selection for tenancy is the responsibility of the owner [24 CFR 982.307(a)(2)]. The PHA must also inform the owner or manager or his/her rights and obligations under the Violence against Women Act of 2013 (VAWA) [24 CFR 5.2005(a)(2)].

The PHA must provide the owner with the family’s current and prior address (as shown in the PHA records) and the name and address (if known to the PHA) of the landlord at the family’s current and prior address [24 CFR 982.307(b)(1)].

The PHA is permitted, but not required, to offer the owner other information in the PHA’s possession about the tenancy history or drug trafficking of family members [24 CFR 982.307(b)(2)].

The PHA’s policy on providing information to the owner must be included in the family’s briefing packet [24 CFR 982.307(b)(3)].

The PHA may not disclose to the owner any confidential information provided by the family in response to a PHA request for documentation of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking except at the written request or with the written consent of the individual providing the documentation [24 CFR 5.2007(b)(4)].

PHA Policy
The PHA will not screen applicants for family behavior or suitability for tenancy.

The PHA will not provide additional screening information to the owner.

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Administrative Plan-HCV Program 3 Revised August 2, 2022 9-I.B. REQUESTING TENANCY APPROVAL [Form HUD-52517]
After the family is issued a voucher, the family must locate an eligible unit, with an owner or landlord willing to participate in the voucher program. Once a family finds a suitable unit and the owner is willing to lease the unit under the program, the owner and the family must request the PHA to approve the assisted tenancy in the selected unit.

The owner and the family must submit two documents to the PHA:
 Completed Request for Tenancy Approval (RTA) – Form HUD-52517  Copy of the proposed lease, including the HUD-prescribed Tenancy Addendum – Form HUD- 52641-A
The RTA contains important information about the rental unit selected by the family, including the unit address, number of bedrooms, structure type, year constructed, utilities included in the rent, and the requested beginning date of the lease, necessary for the PHA to determine whether to approve the assisted tenancy in this unit.

Owners must certify to the most recent amount of rent charged for the unit and provide an explanation for any difference between the prior rent and the proposed rent.

Owners must certify that they are not the parent, child, grandparent, grandchild, sister, or brother of any member of the family, unless the PHA has granted a request for reasonable accommodation for a person with disabilities who is a member of the tenant household.

For units constructed prior to 1978, owners must either 1) certify that the unit, common areas, and exterior have been found to be free of lead-based paint by a certified inspector; or 2) attach a lead-based paint disclosure statement.

Both the RTA and the proposed lease must be submitted no later than the expiration date stated on the voucher. [HCV GB p.8-15].

PHA Policy
The RTA must be signed by both the family and the owner.

The owner may submit the RTA on behalf of the family.

Completed RTA (including the proposed dwelling lease) must be submitted as hard copies, in- person, by mail, fax, email, or via an online tenant portal (if available).

The family may not submit, and the PHA will not process, more than one (1) RTA at a time.

When the family submits the RTA the PHA will review the RTA for completeness.

If the RTA is incomplete (including lack of signature by family, owner, or both), or if the dwelling lease is not submitted with the RTA, the PHA will notify the family and the owner of the deficiencies.

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HCV Administrative Plan

Administrative Plan-HCV Program 4 Revised August 2, 2022 Missing information and/or missing documents will only be accepted as hard copies, in- person, by mail, email, or by fax. The PHA will not accept missing information over the phone.

When the family submits the RTA and proposed lease, the PHA will also review the terms of the RTA for consistency with the terms of the proposed lease.

If the terms of the RTA are not consistent with the terms of the proposed lease, the PHA will notify the famil y and the owner of the discrepancies.

Corrections to the terms of the RTA and/or the proposed lease will only be accepted as hard copies, in-person, by mail, email, or by fax. The PHA will not accept corrections by phone.

Because of the time sensitive nature of the tenancy approval process, the PHA will attempt to communicate with the owner and family by phone, fax, or email. The PHA will use mail when the parties cannot be reached by phone, fax, or email.
9-I.C. OWNER PARTICIPATION
The PHA does not formally approve an owner to participate in the HCV program. However, there are a number of criteria where the PHA may deny approval of an assisted tenancy based on past owner behavior, conflict of interest, or other owner-related issues. There are also criteria for which the PHA must disapprove an owner. No owner has a right to participate in the HCV program [24 CFR 982.306(e)]
See Chapter 13 for a full discussion of owner qualification to participate in the HCV program. 9-I.D. ELIGIBLE UNITS
There are a number of criteria that a dwelling unit must meet in order to be eligible for assistance under the voucher program. Generally, a voucher-holder family may choose any available rental dwelling unit on the market in the PHA’s jurisdiction. This includes the dwelling unit they are currently occupying.

Fairfield City CouncilDecember 6, 2022

Fairfield City Council
December 6, 2022