Section 8 policy change
Minimum occupancy standards
What are
occupancy standards?
Occupancy standards determine the
maximum subsidy amount a household will receive, based on
the number of people in the household. Voucher holders may
still rent rent any size unit that they can afford, as long
as the rent is reasonable and the household does not exceed
the maximum number of people allowed (see chart below).
What is
SHA's new policy for occupancy?
For all new participants and current
participants who request a move after April 1, 2008, SHA
will determine voucher size based on the minimum number of
household members according to the chart below.
|
Voucher size |
Minimum
|
Maximum |
|
Studio subsidy |
1 person |
2 people |
|
One-bedroom subsidy |
1 person |
4 people |
|
Two-bedroom subsidy |
2 people
|
6 people |
|
Three-bedroom subsidy |
3 people |
8 people |
|
Four-bedroom subsidy |
4 people |
10 people |
|
Five-bedroom |
6 people |
12 people |
|
Six-bedroom |
8 people |
14 people |
In addition, the new policy includes:
-
Eliminating subsidy for students who
live away from home most of the year
-
Limiting single adults to studio
vouchers
-
If a household grows by birth or
other additions, the family would not become eligible
for a larger subsidy unless the occupancy level violates
Housing Quality Standards (there are more than 2 people
per sleeping room)
When will
the changes affect households?
Current participants will be
"grandfathered" in and will not be subject to the new
occupancy standards unless they decide to move for whatever
reason.
The new standards will be used for all
new families receiving vouchers and all families who submit
a Move with Continued Assistance packet after April 1, 2008.
SHA will consider exceptions based on
documented need for an additional room due to disability, or
for a live-in aide.
Other
Section 8 policy changes
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