The Current Administration Enhances Housing Support for Veterans

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has introduced significant policy modifications aimed at expanding housing support for our nation's veterans. 

This initiative is set to make it easier for veterans to access the housing they need and deserve. Below are the key updates and how they will impact veterans seeking support.
 

Key Policy Changes

1. Increased Access to the HUD-VASH Program

The HUD-Veteran Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program is a joint effort by HUD and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) designed to assist veterans facing homelessness. The program combines rental assistance with vital case management and supportive services. 

Recent changes will allow veterans with service-connected disability benefits to qualify more easily for this program, as these benefits will no longer be counted as income.

2. Expanded Eligibility Criteria

Previously, income limits for the HUD-VASH program required veterans to have an income at 50% or less of the Area Median Income. 

Under the new guidelines, this threshold has been raised to 80%. This adjustment aims to expand the pool of veterans eligible for assistance.

3. Alternative Definition of Annual Income

An alternative definition of annual income has been introduced for those applying to the HUD-VASH program. This definition excludes veterans’ service-connected disability benefits from their income calculation, potentially widening eligibility.

4. Encouraging Changes in Local Programs

HUD is actively working with the U.S. Department of the Treasury and encouraging state and local governments to adopt similar changes. This would ensure veterans across various housing subsidy programs benefit from these eligibility adjustments.
 

Additional Measures to Improve HUD-VASH Administration

 

• Project-Based HUD-VASH Contracts: Public housing agencies now have the flexibility to award project-based contracts specifically for housing projects on VA facilities.
• Adjustments to Fair Market Rent: Agencies can approve Exception Payment Standards up to 140% of the Fair Market Rent as a reasonable accommodation.
• Separate Minimum Rent Policy: A distinct minimum rent policy, including the possibility of zero rent, is now available for HUD-VASH participants.

 

Funding to Support the Expansion

Moreover, HUD has allocated $20 million in additional funds to 245 public housing agencies across 43 states. This funding is earmarked for expanding housing search assistance, landlord recruitment, security deposit assistance for veterans, and mediation activities, among other supports.
 

Impact on Veteran Homelessness

Since its inception, the HUD-VASH program has been instrumental in assisting over 200,000 veterans transition out of homelessness. These efforts have contributed to a reduction of more than 50% in veteran homelessness since 2010.

Don’t Miss: Breaking Down Legal Barriers: The VA's Initiative to Support Homeless Veterans
 

Conclusion

These changes reflect the Biden-Harris Administration's commitment to removing barriers to housing for veterans. Through these policy updates, the administration aims to ensure that veterans can access the housing assistance they rightfully deserve, further advancing toward the goal of eliminating veteran homelessness.

For more information on HUD's mission and programs, visit HUD's official website or follow HUD on social media.

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