Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS)-Participant Guide

Participant Guide - FSS

Pdf Summary

This document is a training manual on HUD’s Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program. It explains what FSS is, who it applies to, how the program has evolved through major HUD rule changes, and what PHAs/owners must do to operate it correctly.

Key points include:

- <strong>Purpose of FSS:</strong> Help low-income families increase earned income, build economic stability, and reduce dependence on public assistance.
- <strong>Regulatory framework:</strong> Updated rules under <strong>24 CFR parts 984 and 887</strong> changed escrow calculations, action plan requirements, ITSP/Contract of Participation forms, and program scope.
- <strong>Program requirements:</strong> Agencies must maintain a HUD-approved <strong>Action Plan</strong>, collaborate with local partners, and use a <strong>Program Coordinating Committee (PCC)</strong> to support recruitment and implementation.
- <strong>Recruitment and case management:</strong> The manual stresses marketing, client intake, strength-based assessment, motivational interviewing, and individualized goal setting.
- <strong>ITSP and goals:</strong> The Individual Training and Services Plan must list interim and final goals, supportive services, and a final goal of becoming independent from welfare assistance. Employment goals must be tailored to the head of household’s skills and local labor market.
- <strong>Rent and escrow:</strong> It explains rent calculation basics and how FSS escrow is credited based on increases in earned income and rent, with new rules limiting escrow percentages by income level.
- <strong>Contract execution:</strong> The Contract of Participation sets the term, responsibilities, escrow rules, and conditions for termination, graduation, extension, or disbursement.
- <strong>Reporting and monitoring:</strong> Agencies must track FSS participation in HUD systems like PIC/IMS and comply with SEMAP/composite score measures.

The manual also includes sample case studies, form instructions, and HUD resources to help agencies administer FSS effectively and stay in compliance.

Keywords

HUD Family Self-Sufficiency

FSS program

24 CFR parts 984 and 887

Action Plan

Program Coordinating Committee

Individual Training and Services Plan

escrow calculation

earned income

case management

SEMAP compliance