HUD Announces Policy Changes to Benefit Veterans with Service-Connected Disabilities
On August 8, HUD introduced significant updates to the HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH) program aimed at increasing housing access for veterans receiving service-connected disability benefits. These policy changes address a critical issue: previously, veterans’ disability benefits were counted as income, potentially disqualifying them from supportive housing due to exceeding income limits.
The new policies will:
- Raise the Income Eligibility Threshold: Public housing agencies (PHAs) will now set initial income eligibility for HUD-VASH participants at 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI), up from the previous threshold of 50% AMI. This change, which was previously optional, is now mandatory to broaden access for veterans.
- Exclude Disability Benefits from Income Calculations: The value of service-connected disability benefits will no longer be included in income calculations for eligibility purposes. This adjustment ensures that veterans whose disability benefits previously disqualified them can now qualify for housing assistance.
Additionally, HUD has allocated $20 million to 245 public housing agencies to support various aspects of the HUD-VASH program. This funding will help expand housing search assistance, recruit landlords, and cover security deposits.
Acting HUD Secretary Adrianne Todman emphasized, “No veteran should ever have to experience homelessness, but when they do, they should not face barriers to getting the help they deserve.” The new policy is expected to enhance support for homeless veterans by making it easier for them to access housing resources and services.
For more details, including the revised HUD-VASH operating requirements, visit the official HUD announcement.