How does a PHA determine if a family is income eligible for the family unification program vouchers?
The PHA compares the family s annual income (gross income) with the HUD-established very low-income limit or low income limit for the area. The family’s gross income cannot exceed this limit. How do families obtain an apartment once they have a voucher? It is the responsibility of a family to find a unit that meets their needs. If the family finds a unit that meets the housing quality standards, the rent is reasonable, and the unit meets other program requirements, the PHA executes a HAP contract with the property owner. This contract authorizes the PHA to make subsidy payments on behalf of the family. If the family moves out of the unit, the contract with the owner ends and the family can move with continued assistance to another unit. How much rent do vouchers cover? The PHA pays the owner the difference between 30 percent of family income and PHA determined payment standard or gross rent whichever is lower. The family may choose a unit with a higher rent than the payment standard an
