Everyone struggles to find affordable, clean, and safe rentals. The situation can seem even more complex for elderly individuals that survive on a fixed income. The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), simplifies the process and is a resource many will find valuable.
How HUD Helps
Rental programs offered by HUD can help renters in many ways. The services offered help people to find rentals in their area. They offer voucher programs to help with the cost of rent and place restrictions on the rentals that require participating property owners to maintain their rentals to specific standards.
The accessibility requirements of HUD-approved locations also benefit seniors with mobility issues. The rules ensure that all multi-unit housing complexes have a certain number of accessible units so all renters have an equal opportunity for a comfortable home. HUD supports the initiative Fair Housing Accessibility FIRST so new building codes meet accessibility needs.
How Rentals Qualify
The property owner, and not a prospective tenant, must contact a HUD office to have their building approved by the agency for their program. The building must pass an in-depth inspection for acceptance and remain clean and maintained to the standards of the agency. If the building fails the inspection, HUD provides a checklist of the work to complete.
Once approved, HUD includes the property on a database for renters seeking a new home. Property owners also usually advertise their rentals as HUD-approved or Section 8-qualified. The HUD program pays a percentage of the rent and the tenant pays the rest. The payments from HUD go directly to the landlord, so tenants do not have to receive and transfer funds.
Where to Begin
Seniors that want to know if they qualify for subsidized housing can call or schedule a visit with a subsidized apartment complex. Depending on the HUD Program, qualifications may differ. It is important to find out if there is an age requirement or specific income limits. People that qualify are typically those that earn less than 50 percentof the median annual income in the rental area.
Individuals and families will need to fill out an application in order to go on a waiting list. The wait time varies based on the need in the area and the number of units available. Personal circumstances, like homelessness, can boost people to the front of the line.
During the application process, you will be asked about your assets, income, and medical expenses in order to calculate the rent. Rent is about 30% of your adjusted gross income.
When Refusals Occur
Not everyone qualifies for HUD vouchers. Most refusals happen because of not meeting the income standard. A previous eviction from public housing for a drug conviction makes people ineligible for three years. A failure to produce the required documents or being in the country illegally will also cause a denial. Documents needed for the application are birth certificates, social security cards, and a state-issued photo ID. The agency must also verify income.
Everyone wants to live in a safe and clean environment. Seniors that live on a restricted income can get help through HUD programs. At Robert Cottingham Property Management Co, we can help you determine if you qualify and assist with the application process. Contact us to learn more.
