HOTMA: An In-Depth Review of Programmatic Changes-Full Page Slides

Full Page Slides - HOTMA In Depth Review

Pdf Summary

The Housing Opportunity Through Modernization Act (HOTMA) of 2016 has brought significant changes to housing programs such as Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) and Public Housing (PH). The final rules, effective January 1, 2024, include several updates regarding program eligibility, income reviews, asset limits, and more.<br /><br />**Key Updates:**<br /><br />1. **Income and Asset Rules**: New rules redefine how income and assets are calculated, imposing stricter guidelines on net family assets over $100,000 and introducing the option for families to self-certify if their assets are under $50,000. <br /><br />2. **Compliance and Transition**: Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) must adjust to new compliance timelines. Full compliance with HOTMA rules is required by specified deadlines, and various examples of how applications and income reviews will be processed have been outlined.<br /><br />3. **Adjustments and Exemptions**: The act allows deductions for unreimbursed medical expenses and attendant care for the disabled, with phased increments over a three-year period for current residents. Child care expenses will no longer include allowances for job seeking.<br /><br />4. **Interim Reviews**: These are redesigned to trigger only when specific changes occur, such as income adjustments exceeding a 10% threshold. The intent is to stabilize calculations while minimizing unnecessary administrative burdens.<br /><br />5. **Technical Updates**: Revisions include the removal of references to outdated Section 8 Certificate Programs, while reinforcing the use of Small Area Fair Market Rents and advanced inspection processes.<br /><br />For HCV and PH programs, PHAs need to update their Administrative Plans to implement these changes, addressing income verification processes and elaborating on policies for interim reexaminations, deductions, and the treatment of new income forms.<br /><br />Multiple resources are available for learning and compliance, including HUD notices and NAHRO training materials. PHAs and housing officials are encouraged to review their policies in light of HOTMA changes, update necessary documentation, and ensure that staff are well-informed about modifications to housing regulations.

Keywords

HOTMA 2016

Housing Choice Voucher

Public Housing

income rules

asset limits

compliance timelines

medical expense deductions

interim reviews

Small Area Fair Market Rents

HUD notices