Step 1 - Apply
Families submit an application to CMHA during the published wait list opening period and are served on a first-com/first-serve basic according to preferences.
Step 2 - Verification
When Applicants reach the top of the wait list, they are asked to provide verification of their eligibility for the HCVP. After eligibility has been confirmed, CMHA notifies the applicant that they have been qualified for a voucher.
Step 3 - Briefing
CMHA invites eligible applicants to a required briefing session. Applicants MUST ATTEND a resident briefing session in order to obtain their voucher.
Step 4 - Get Voucher
CMHA issues a Housing Choice Voucher to each applicant at the end of the resident briefing.
Step 5 - Find a Unit
Applicants have 90 days to find a suitable unit, complete the Request for Tenancy Approval Form (RTA) with the landlord and submit the document to CMHA.
Step 6 - Affordability Tests
CMHA reviews the RTA to verify that the applicant qualifies for the proposed unit and that the unit meets CMHA’s program requirements.
Step 7 - Unit Inspected
The unit is inspected to ensure it meets HUD’s Housing Quality Standards (HQS).
Step 8 - Rent Reasonable Assessment
CMHA must determine whether the rent to owner is a reasonable rent in comparision to rent for other comparable unassisted units.
Step 9 - Move In
CMHA notifies all parties that the unit is approved for assistance, finalizes the resident rent and HAP amounts, and obtains the move-in date from the resident and the landlord. The HAP packet is mailed to the landlord.
Step 10 - Owner Returns Lease & HAP Packet
CMHA sends the landlord a HAP contract and Tenancy Addendum outlining the program guidelines and specific contract payment amounts. The landlord is responsible for completing the HAP contract and obtaining the resident’s signature on the addendum. The HAP Contract has to be dated within 60 calendar days of the effective date of the lease start date. The landlord must return these forms to CMHA along with a copy of the resident’s Lease Agreement.
Step 11 - HAP Payment Issued
Upon receipt of the landlord’s HAP contract, the Tenancy Addendum and the resident’s Lease Agreement, CMHA will review the Lease Agreement to ensure that it’s terms do not conflict with HUD regulations or PHA policy. Once approved, payments will be made on the next check run following the approval date. CMHA has three check runs per month to ensure speedy payments to landlords. Payments are issued on the 1st, 10th and 20th of each month. All payments are issued via direct deposit.