HERE’S HOW HOMELESS VETS CAN GET HOUSING ASSISTANCE THROUGH HUD VASH
Across the country, at least 41,000 Veterans are facing homelessness this year, which is a significant increase from years prior. In March of this year, the VA announced its goal to prevent and abolish Veteran homelessness in the U.S. In fiscal year 2024, the plan is for the VA to place at least 41,000 homeless Veterans into permanent housing. The VA also plans to work with over 40,000 unsheltered Veterans to help them obtain housing and related services. To further combat the ongoing Veteran homelessness crisis, the VA has implemented the HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program.This program aims to provide homeless Veterans with rental assistance through case management and clinical services. In this guide, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about the application process, timeline, and eligibility requirements.
The HUD VASH Program Is Combating the Veteran Homelessness Crisis
In recent years, the VA has put together an initiative to combat the ever-increasing Veteran homelessness crisis in the United States. It is called the HUD VASH program. The program is for Veterans who are:
- Currently homeless
- Are willing to accept case management
- Agree to using the provided housing as a primary, personal residence
- Able to live independently
HUD VASH is a partnership between the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA). The program aims to help homeless Veterans find permanent housing that is affordable, and in their local community.The other program offering homeless Veterans assistance is VASH (VA Supportive Housing). This case management program gives Vets a HUD Section 8 “Housing Choice” voucher to help with rental assistance.The overall goal of the HUD-VASH program is to provide Veterans and their families with the support and resources needed to get off the streets and into a home. In addition to the mission of housing Veterans, the program aims to improve the mental and physical health of Veterans who wish to pursue homeownership in the future.
How Does the Program Support Homeless Veterans?
HUD VASH aims to provide homeless Veterans and their families with affordable, clean, and decent housing options.The end goal of the program is to help Veterans obtain stable housing in the long-term. In addition to providing housing support, Veterans have access to other case-management resources, such as mental/physical health treatment, and additional clinical services.While enrolled in the program, Veterans receive housing vouchers. These vouchers cover a portion of the rent for market-rate housing. The vouchers are then used to pay landlords directly. Veterans enrolled in the program are responsible for covering the remainder of their rent.
HUD VASH Eligibility Requirements and Admission Into the Program
While the program is for all Veterans, there are some strict eligibility requirements. For Veterans who wish to enter the program, your first step is to contact your local VA program for homeless Veterans and families. From there, you will receive assistance with getting a referral to the HUD-VASH program, and can complete the eligibility evaluation.After admittance to the program, you will be assigned to a case manager. Then, the case manager will work with you to create a plan and will help you access the necessary resources. They can also help you obtain a Section 8 HUD voucher.The HUD Voucher pays rental income to private landlords on your behalf. The HUD program then provides those funds to public housing agencies who can administer the vouchers to Veterans who are eligible.After you are approved and have received the necessary voucher, you will be able to find a home in your community that fits your needs. After moving in, you should expect your case manager to regularly check in and visit you.
How Do You Obtain a HUD-VASH Voucher?
Here is what you’ll need to have in order to successfully enroll in the program and obtain a voucher:
- Birth certificate/DD214
- Social Security Card
- State ID or driver’s license
- Proof of income
- Statement of savings
- A general/ sex offender background check
The HUD-VASH voucher pays a portion of the Veteran’s rent to their landlord. Veterans enrolling in the program should be aware that only a part of the rent is covered.Therefore, it is up to the Veteran to cover the remaining cost of rent. In general, Veterans should expect to contribute around 30% to 40% of their gross monthly income towards rent. Case management will continue to review the required contributions, facilitating communication between the Veteran and the landlord.
HUD VASH Is Helping Veterans Access Quality, Affordable Housing Options
The HUD VASH program is committed to working towards the goal of eliminating Veteran homelessness. For Veterans in need of housing options, support, and resources, this housing program is a great place to start.For more information about Veteran housing, you can call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans, a.k.a. the HUD VASH phone number, at 877-424-3838. The services are completely free and confidential. Additionally, the call center has trained counselors available 24/7 who can walk you through the process. They can also connect you with the VA for more information.
FAQs
How long can I participate in HUD VASH?
You are able to participate in the program for as long as you are income eligible.
What happens if my income increases or if I lose my job?
The amount you pay in rent is linked to your income. If you experience a change while enrolled in the program, it is best to contact your case manager and the housing authority to inform them of this change. From there, your rent will automatically be adjusted.
How much does HUD VASH pay for rent?
Veterans are expected to contribute between 30-40 percent of their monthly income towards the cost of rent. Then, the subsidy will cover the remaining balance.
Am I ineligible for the program if I have a felony?
No, a felony will not make you ineligible for assistance through the HUD VA program. However, Veterans will be ineligible for assistance if they are on the life time registry for sex offenses.
What happens to a family’s assistance if the homeless Veteran passes away?
In this instance, the voucher stays with the living family members. The Public Housing Agency (PHA) can also choose to use their own vouchers to continue assisting the family. Additionally, this helps free up more vouchers to help other homeless Veterans. In the case where there are no regular vouchers available, the family keeps using the HUD VASH voucher.Related reads:
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