FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Waitlist and Eligibility
TThe 2024 Miami Dade Housing Choice Voucher waitlist application submission period is now closed and the lottery has been completed on March 18th, 2024 where 5,000 confirmation numbers will be chosen. You will be able to check your status at the Miami Dade County's Lottery Checker.
The 2008 and 2021 tenant-based waitlist is officially closed and finalized.
A computerized random selection system, in which a computer randomly assigns waiting list rankings/position list numbers, takes place after the application period. Please note that it may take a few months after the application period is over for the ranking/position list numbers to be announced.
Once you move to the top of the waiting list, you will be mailed an appointment letter to begin the eligibility verification process. Please be sure your current mailing address is on file, so the letter is sent to the correct location.
Important Note: Your ranking/position list number never changes
2008 Waiting List applicants can update their mailing address here
2021 Waiting List applicants can update their mailing address by contacting MDHCV’s Customer Service Call Center by calling 305-403-3222 (TTY: 1-800-955-8771)
If you are receiving an error logging in then you must contact a customer service representative at the MDHCV’s Customer Service Call Center by calling 305-403-3222 (TTY: 1-800-955-8771)
- Must meet the income limits for household composition. You can find the income limits here(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)
- Citizenship Status Requirement – Families with only non-eligible immigration status will not be granted housing assistance
- Any household member must not owe any debts to other Public Housing Agencies
- Any household member must not have been evicted from subsidized housing or experienced involuntary termination from residential assistance programs for a period of five (5) years from the end of participation
- Submit all required documentation and consent forms (including but not limited to)
- Proof of identification
- Proof of date of birth
- Proof of social security number
- Proof of income, assets and expenses
- Sign and date all requested consent forms
- Criminal Background check on all adults – You may review the PHA Administration Plan for full list of Criminal Background Policy. PHA must deny for the following criminal activities:
- Methamphetamine manufacturers on premises of federally assisted housing.
- Sex offenders subject to a lifetime registration under a state sex offender registration program.
- Violent-related, including but not limited to murder, arson, aggravated battery and sex related crimes not subject to lifetime registration under a state sex offender registration program.
You are encouraged to complete the Initial Application for Eligibility to the best of your abilities and the HUD-9886 prior to your appointment date. You may pre-fill out the application on the portal.
All adults in the household must be present at the Eligibility appointment
- All adults must bring a valid state issued photo ID
- For all members bring your original birth certificate
- Alternatives include: Permanent resident card, Certification of Naturalization, valid US passport or Voter’s registration card
- For all members bring your original social security card
- Alternatives include: An original document from a federal or state government agency that contains the individual’s name and SSN, along with identifying information of the individual (i.e. address, date of birth, etc.) or; DD214 (military document).
- For non-contending members (ineligible noncitizens), bring all the foreign documentation you may have: ID, original birth certificate and foreign passport.
- Gather verifications of the following items: All verification documents must be dated within the last 60 days
- Employment – Two consecutive paystubs
- Self Employment – Recent schedule C tax return. If taxes were not filed, submit a written statement explaining what your self-employment is (Babysitting, hairdresser etc), explain that your taxes were not filed, your earned monthly income, and your monthly expenses.
- Seasonal Employment -Complete the seasonal employment form
- Contributions from family and friends – Notarized statement from contributor that states the rate and frequency of contribution. Include contact information such as name, phone number and address of the contributor.
- Unearned income (including SSI, Social Security, TANF assistance, unemployment, child support) – Recent benefit letter/statement
- Assets (checking account, savings account, 401(k), life insurance, real estate, stocks, bonds, etc.) – Most recent statement
- Any assets that you have given away or sold for less than full value in the past 2 years
- Full Time Student documentation - Schedule or letter showing current or future enrollment status
- Expenses related to childcare, disability, and medical expenses.
We are currently determining eligibility for over 2,000 families. If it has been more than 45 days since your Initial Eligibility interview/due date then you may contact a customer service representative at the MDHCV’s Customer Service Call Center by calling 305-403-3222 (TTY: 1-800-955-8771.)
You must request an Informal review within 30 days from the withdrawal notice. You may submit your Informal Review request by submitting through our online portal, emailing it to customercare@mdvoucher.com (include your entity ID in the subject line), schedule an appointment to drop of your documents or mail it to PO BOX 521750 Miami FL 33152 (include your entity ID on ALL pages).
MDHCV is not required to provide the applicant an opportunity for an informal review for any of the following:
- Discretionary administrative determinations by the PHA.
- General policy issues or class grievances.
- A determination of the family unit size under the PHA subsidy standards.
- A PHA determination not to approve an extension of the voucher term.
- A PHA determination not to grant approval of the tenancy.
- An PHA determination that a unit selected by the applicant is not in compliance with HQS.
- An PHA determination that the unit is not in accordance with HQS because of the family size or composition.
If you need a Spanish or Creole translator present at the Informal Review then contact a customer service representative at the MDHCV’s Customer Service Call Center by calling 305-403-3222 (TTY: 1-800-955-8771.) and request a translator five business days in advance.
Rent Calculation
Your total tenant payment (TTP) is the minimum amount you will pay for rent and utilities. MDHCV calculates your TTP based on your income. Your TTP is the greatest amount of those below:
- 10% of your family’s gross monthly income (your annual income, without any of the deductions, divided by 12)
- 30% of your family’s monthly adjusted income (your annual income, minus any deductions, divided by 12)
- $50 minimum rent
MDHCV determines how much they will pay the owner on your behalf based on what’s called a payment standard, which is the maximum amount of subsidy MDHCV can pay for a particular unit size. The amount MDHCV uses to calculate your subsidy is the lower of the actual number of bedrooms in the unit you select or number of bedrooms on your voucher.
For example, if you were issued a 1-bedroom voucher, but you select a 2-bedroom unit, MDHCV uses the 1-bedroom payment standard to determine how much they will pay the owner. If you were issued a 2-bedroom voucher but selected a 3-bedroom unit, MDHCV would use the 2-bedroom payment standard.
MDHCV’s payment standards are listed below:
| MDHCV Payment Standards (effective 01/01/2024 - Current) | |||||||
| Bedrooms | Studio | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 |
| MDHCV Payment Standards | $1,851 | $2,072 | $2,556 | $3,330 | $3,948 | $4,540 | $5,133 |
| MDHCV Payment Standards (effective 09/01/2023-12/31/2023) | |||||||
| Bedrooms | Studio | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 |
| MDHCV Payment Standards | $1,634 | $1,855 | $2,307 | $3,036 | $3,596 | $4,136 | $4,675 |
| MDHCV Payment Standards (effective 03/13/2023-08/31/2023) | |||||||
| Bedrooms | Studio | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 |
| MDHCV Payment Standards | $1,498 | $1,700 | $2,115 | $2,783 | $3,296 | $3,791 | $4,285 |
Utility allowances are provided when you pay for any of the utilities in your unit such as electricity, natural gas, water, sewer and trash. This does not include things like cable and internet.
Utility Allowances are not meant to provide a dollar for dollar match to the amount you pay in utilities each month. They are an estimated monthly cost of reasonable use of utilities for units of similar size and location. MDHCV will calculate your utility allowance based on locality, applied voucher size and which utilities you pay for. Once MDHCV has calculated your utility allowance amount, it will be included in the calculation of your tenant portion.
You can locate the 2024 Miami Dade Utility Allowance Schedule here. and the 2024 Homestead Utility Allowance here.
You typically would pay 30%-40% of your adjusted monthly income (your TTP) towards rent AND utilities. However, if your contract rent + utility allowance is greater than the applied MDHCV payment standard, then you will pay more than 40% of your monthly adjusted income.
In the example below, the family wants to rent a two bedroom unit and their voucher size is a two bedroom based on their family composition.
The lease states that the family will pay for electricity, water, sewer. Their utility allowance (based on MDHCV utility chart) for a two bedroom will be $112 ($77 electricity,+ $12 for water, + $23 for sewer). MDHCV will pay the owner $2,062 on behalf of the family each month. The family will pay a total of $338. The total rent to owner will be 2,400.
| Owner Requested Rent | = | $2,400 |
| Total Tenant Payment (TTP) Based on the family's income |
= | $450 |
| Utility Allowance | = | $112 |
|
Gross Rent |
$2,400 + $112 = | $2,512 |
| MDHCV Payment Standard for a two bedroom unit
01/01/2024 payment standard |
= | $2,556 |
| MDHCV selects Gross Rent because it is lower than the Payment Standard | |
$2,512 |
|
Housing Assistant Payment (HAP) |
$2,512 - $450 = | $2,062 |
|
Tenant Rent to Owner |
$450-$112 = | $338 |
You have several different options:
- You may submit an interim request(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab) in regards to any changes to your income, family composition or expenses and we can adjust your portion. You may submit your supporting documents by submitting through our online portal(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab), emailing it to customercare@mdvoucher.com(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab) (include your entity ID in the subject line), schedule an appointment to drop of your documents(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab) or mail it to PO BOX 521750 Miami FL 33152 (include your entity ID on ALL pages).
- You may request an Informal Review within 15 days from your HAP amendment letter. Our informal hearing officer will review your case to ensure your income was calculated correctly and the correct payment standard and utility allowance was applied. You may submit the informal hearing request(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab) by submitting through our online portal(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab), emailing it to customercare@mdvoucher.com(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab) (include your entity ID in the subject line), schedule an appointment to drop of your documents(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab) or mail it to PO BOX 521750 Miami FL 33152 (include your entity ID on ALL pages). A Housing Specialist will review your request within 30. days.
- You may request a Change of Dwelling(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab) to search for an affordable unit.
- An individual may qualify for a reasonable accommodation, upon request and health provider verification, if considered to be a person with a disability under the following ADA definition: (1) A physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities (2) A record of such impairment (3) Regarded as having such impairment. You may request a Reasonable Accommodation(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab) to increase the applied payment standard. You may submit Reasonable Accommodation Request by submitting through our online portal(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab), emailing it to customercare@mdvoucher.com(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab) (include your entity ID in the subject line), schedule an appointment to drop of your documents(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab) or mail it to PO BOX 521750 Miami FL 33152 (include your entity ID on ALL pages). A Housing Specialist will review your request within 30 days.
Your certification may not be effective yet in our system and the portal is currently reflecting your current tenant portion until the certification is effective.
If the utility allowance for your unit exceeds your Total Tenant Payment (TTP), MDHCV will provide you with a utility reimbursement payment check (or direct deposit) every month in order to help you pay your utilities.
Moves: Voucher Issuance, Request for Tenancy Approval and Portability
You can request a Change of Dwelling/Voucher 60 days prior to the expiration date of your lease. Your file will be reviewed to ensure you do not have any outstanding debts to the PHA, there are no active Intent to Terminates and that you are in compliance with your Annual Recertification. (For PBV participants see the FAQ for PBV below). You may request your Change of dwelling request through the portal.(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)
In order for your Change of Dwelling/Voucher request to be approved, you must submit your request with one of the following documents:
- A written notice of your intent to vacate the unit to which has been provided to your landlord
- A notice of non renewal/notice to vacate to which your landlord has presented to you
A Housing Specialist has 14 days to review your voucher request.
Cases can not be expedited if it is within it’s normal timeframe.
- Voucher request: 14 days from submission
- Port-out: 7 days with active voucher or 21 days if no active searching voucher
- RTA: 7 days
However, if you are a victim of domestic violence you should contact a customer service representative at the MDHCV’s Customer Service Call Center by calling 305-403-3222 (TTY: 1-800-955-8771.) and you may complete the HUD-5382
If you have received an email from MDHCV stating you were approved for the online voucher briefing, you may go to https://www.nmauniversity.com/ and click forgot password. If this is not successful, you may contact a customer service representative at the MDHCV’s Customer Service Call Center by calling 305-403-3222 (TTY: 1-800-955-8771.).
You may contact a customer service representative at the MDHCV’s Customer Service Call Center by calling 305-403-3222 (TTY: 1-800-955-8771) to request the online briefing be switched to Spanish You may also request an in-person Spanish briefing.
At the Voucher Briefing, you will learn the bedroom size for which your family qualifies under MDHCV's subsidy standards and approximately how much rental assistance you will receive. You can find information about available housing in a number of places, including:
- Using https://www.affordablehousing.com/ which is the largest affordable housing free listing service in the country!
- Using other online apartment guides such as www.apartmentguide.com, www.apartmentfinder.com, or www.forrent.com
- Talking to friends, neighbors, or co-workers who know of available units
- Talking to real estate agents
- Looking at ads in newspapers such as the Miami Herald, SunSentinel, and El Nuevo Herald
- Or, simply going to the neighborhood you want to move into and looking for "For Rent" signs
MDHCV uses what is called subsidy standards to determine the size voucher you receive. MDHCV applies the following subsidy standards when determining your voucher size:
- Single person families are given a zero or one-bedroom voucher
- Generally, two people are expected to share one bedroom
- A single head of household parent is not required to share a bedroom with their child.
- Children of opposite sex who are over the age of six are not required to occupy the same bedroom or living/sleeping room
- A live-in aide may be assigned up to one bedroom if approved as a reasonable accommodation
- The live-in aide may have PHA-approved family member(s) live with them in the unit as long as the unit is not overcrowded per HQS Space Standards
- No additional bedrooms will be provided to accommodate the live-in aide’s family members
- An individual may qualify for a reasonable accommodation, upon request and health provider verification, if considered to be a person with a disability under the following ADA definition:
- A physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities
- A record of such impairment
- Regarded as having such impairment
You may submit your Reasonable Accommodation request by submitting through our online portal, emailing it to customercare@mdvoucher.com (include your entity ID in the subject line), schedule an appointment to drop of your documents or mail it to PO BOX 521750 Miami FL 33152 (include your entity ID on ALL pages).
Either you or the owner may submit the completed Request for Tenancy Approval (RTA) package to MDHCV. Packets may be turned in one of several ways:
- PREFERRED METHOD! Complete the request through the online portal: https://www.mdvoucher.com/rta
- Email the PDF version to customercare@mdvoucher.com. (include your entity ID in the subject line)
- Schedule an appointment to drop of the RTA at our Downtown Office or North Miami office (Appointment only!)
- Mail it to PO BOX 521750 Miami FL 33152 (include your entity ID on ALL pages).
IMPORTANT: All questions and fields on the RFTA must be completed. Incomplete RFTA may delay the processing of your selected unit. If this is the owner’s first time participating on the program, they will also need to fill out a new vendor package which will be provided to you when your voucher is issued or can be accessed on the portal.
You may contact a customer service representative at the MDHCV’s Customer Service Call Center by calling 305-403-3222 (TTY: 1-800-955-8771.) if your request is outside the timeframe.
RTA Review: Estimated timeframe from receipt of RTA: 7 Days
- MDHCV reviews ownership, taxes, HOA approval, property management agreement and/or authorized agent(s).
- New Owners are required to be approved by the finance department and be issued a Vendor Number prior to move-in authorization. New owners can complete their New Vendor request through the portal.
- MDHCV will evaluate the family’s income to ensure affordability of the unit. The family can not pay more than 40% of their adjusted monthly income
- MDHCV will review the rent requested by the owner and compare it to comparable unassisted units in the building and/or neighborhood. MDHCV uses https://www.affordablehousing.com/ to complete the Rent Reasonable Survey.
- If the contract rent requested is not affordable or reasonable, then MDHCV will contact the owner to negotiated to an affordable/reasonable amount
- If the rent offer is not accepted within 5 business days or the owner declines the rent offer, then MDHCV will cancel the RTA for that unit.
HQS Inspection estimated timeframe from RTA approval: 7 Days
- The Inspections department will contact owner to schedule an initial inspection. Inspections will conduct an assessment of the unit according to the federal Housing Quality Standards (HQS).
- The unit must be unoccupied and move in ready unless the tenant will lease in place. (electricity and water must be turned on)
- If the unit does not pass, the owner will be allowed 10 days to make repairs
- If the unit does not pass the re-inspection, MDHCV will cancel the RTA for that unit/property.
Move-in Authorization estimated timeframe from a passed HQS inspection date: 5 Days
- MDHCV will contact owner and tenant to inform they are authorized to move into the unit. Owner will have 10 days to submit an executed lease back to MDHCV. Tenant has 10 days to submit Move-in authorization to MDHCV.
Lease Review estimated timeframe from lease submission: 10 Days
- MDHCV will review lease for compliance and owner will have 10 additional days if lease needs to be revised due to error.
HAP contract to owner estimated timeframe from lease approval: 2 Days
- MDHCV will send the HAP contract via RightSignature for owner to execute. Owner has 10 days to execute HAP Contract.
HAP Payment to owner is typically disbursed between 7-45 days from executed HAP signing.
HUD defines affordability as paying no more than 40% of your monthly adjusted income toward rent and utilities during the first year of initial occupancy. If you do choose a unit where the gross rent (contract rent + utility allowance) is more than MDHCV’s payment standard, and it turns out your share of the rent and utilities would not be affordable, MDHCV is required to disapprove the unit, unless the owner is willing to lower the rent to a level where it would be affordable for you.
Keep in mind, the Affordability Calculation Worksheet that you were provided after your Voucher Briefing is just an estimate and a Housing Specialist thoroughly reviewed the Request for Tenancy Approval in order to calculate your affordability.
Once you have complied with the 1-year occupancy requirement under the PBV/RAD program then you may request to receive continued assistance under the tenant-based voucher program (HCV).
You must must comply with all of the following:
- You must first notify your owner of your intent to vacate and not renew.
- You must contact MDHCV 60 days prior to your lease expiration date to request a tenant-based voucher. You may request through the online portal
- You must also be in GOOD STANDING. Good standing is defined by being current on rent and not be on notice for any other lease violation.
The owner will then send MDHCV the family's notice (which includes the family's request for a voucher) and also certifies the family's GOOD STANDING. MDHCV will then determine if vouchers are available.
-
Voucher Available: MDHCV will schedule the family for a voucher issuance briefing.
-
Voucher NOT Available: MDHCV will place the family on waiting list. Families already occupying a PBV unit will be offered a Tenant-Based voucher ahead of anyone on the exiting waiting list.
Inform your Initial Housing Authority to email customercare@mdvoucher.com your initial port-in packet. We advise for you to contact a customer service representative at the MDHCV’s Customer Service Call Center by calling 305-403-3222 (TTY: 1-800-955-8771.) and inform them of your Initial Housing Authority’s email address. Your Initial Housing Authority may also mail in the initial port in packet to PO BOX 521750 Miami FL 33152.
Allow MDHCV 14 days from the submission to review the port-in packet.
MDHCV is currently billing only
MDHCV cover's all of the zipcodes in Miami-Dade County. You can see the full list of zipcodes on https://www.zip-codes.com/county/fl-miami-dade.asp
Within Miami-Dade County there are three other Housing Authorities (not affiliated with MDHCV).
You first must be approved to receive a voucher. See FAQ question “When can I request a Change of Dwelling?”. Once you have received your voucher then you can submit a request to port-out by completing the port-out request form. Ensure you identify which Housing Authority that you want to port-out to. You can find a Housing Authority's address on HUD's website
You may submit your Port-Out request by submitting through our online portal, emailing it to customercare@mdvoucher.com (include your entity ID in the subject line), schedule an appointment to drop of your documents or mail it to PO BOX 521750 Miami FL 33152 (include your entity ID on ALL pages).
Allow a Housing Specialist 7 days to review your port-out request. (This timeframe is AFTER you have received your searching voucher)
If you have successfully leased up in another jurisdiction then the Annual Recertification is not required. However, we may be missing documentation to support that you have leased up in your Receiving Housing Authority. Please advise your Receiving Housing Authority to either email us at customercare@mdvoucher.com or mail us the documentation to PO BOX 521750 Miami FL 33152 so we can properly remove you from our system.
Inspections
Requests for rescheduling an inspection will be addressed on an individual basis. An inspection can be rescheduled 48 hours prior to the inspection date by going to the Inspections Portal or contact a customer service representative at the MDHCV’s Customer Service Call Center by calling 305-403-3222 (TTY: 1-800-955-8771.)
You may review the last 12 months of inspections results on the Inspections Portal or contact a customer service representative at the MDHCV’s Customer Service Call Center by calling 305-403-3222 (TTY: 1-800-955-8771.)
If a unit fails the annual inspection, the inspector will determine whether you or the owner is responsible for the failed item. If the owner is responsible, they must make the repair and have it re-inspected within a specific timeframe. Otherwise, MDHCV will abate, or stop paying, the housing assistance payment (HAP) to the Owner until the item is repaired and the unit passes an inspection.
You are not responsible for paying any additional rent during this time. You will continue to pay your portion of the rent. Do not make any additional payments to the owner if HAP is not being paid to the owner by MDHCV. MDHCV will schedule you to attend a voucher briefing so you may move from the unit. Failure to move from the unit within 180 days will result in termination from the program. If your owner passes a reinspection within 180 days then you are not required to move.
For further information. see FAQ "My unit is in abatement and MDHCV is not making HAP payments to the owner. However, my owner is trying to collect this unpaid HAP from me. What do I do?"
If it is determined that you are responsible for the failure, you must make the repair or work with the owner to have (and if necessary, pay for) the item repaired and have it re-inspected within the specified timeframe that MDHCV set forth. Otherwise, MDHCV may terminate your assistance. Some examples of failures that may be your responsibility include the following:
- Failure to pay for tenant supplied utilities
- Failure to maintain appliances
- Damage to the unit caused by the family or their guests
Annual Activities: Annual Recertification, Interim Recertification and Rent Increases
Cases can not be expedited if it is within it’s normal timeframe:
- Annual Recertifications will be completed 30 days prior to your Anniversary date
- Interim Recertification will be completed 30 days from your submission date
However, if you are a victim of domestic violence you should contact a customer service representative at the MDHCV's Customer
Service Call Center by calling 305-403-3222 (TTY: 1-800-955-8771.) and complete the HUD-5382.
You must complete your Annual Recertification and HUD-9886 prior to the due date listed on your initial notice. If you need assistance completing your Annual Recertification packet, you can contact a customer service representative at the MDHCV’s Customer Service Call Center by calling 305-403-3222 (TTY: 1-800-955-8771.)
Submit supporting documentation for all household members including minors (excluding Live-in-Aids). All verification documents must be dated within the last 60 days. Gather verifications of the following and return with your completed recertification packet:
- Employment – Two consecutive paystubs
- Self Employment – Recent schedule C tax return. If taxes were not filed, submit a written statement explaining what your self-employment is (Babysitting, hairdresser etc), explain that your taxes were not filed, your earned monthly income, and your monthly expenses.
- Seasonal Employment -Complete the seasonal employment form and submit with two consecutive paystubs
- Contributions from family and friends – Notarized statement from contributor that states the rate and frequency of contribution. Include contact information such as name, address and phone number of contributor.
- Unearned income (including SSI, Social Security, TANF assistance, unemployment) – Recent benefit letter/statement
- Assets: Checking account, savings account, retirement, real estate, stocks, bonds, etc. – Most recent statement
- Any assets that you have given away or sold for less than full value in the past 2 years
- Full Time Student documentation - School schedule or letter from institution showing current enrollment status
- Out-of-pocket expenses related to childcare, disability, and medical expenses - 1 year of receipts or child care verification letter from provider
- Adults with zero income – Complete the Zero Income Affidavit
Families in the Home Ownership Program (HOP)
- Mortgage and Escrow Statements (1st and 2nd Mortgage)
- Current Utilities Statements
- Home Association or Condo Assessment Fee, if applicable.
- Proof of Homeowner Insurance
- Proof of Flood Insurance, if applicable
You may submit your supporting documents by submitting through our online portal, emailing it to customercare@mdvoucher.com (include your entity ID in the subject line), schedule an appointment to drop of your documents or mail it to PO BOX 521750 Miami FL 33152 (include your entity ID on ALL pages).
An interim reexamination is a reexam that occurs at a time other than your regularly scheduled annual reexamination. MDHCV will conduct an interim reexamination if there is a change in the size of your household composition, a change in your income or qualifying disability/medical expenses.
Changes in household composition:
- If someone moves out, you must notify MDHCV within 10 days.
- If your family size increases because of birth, adoption, or court-ordered custody, you must notify MDHCV within 30 days.
- Otherwise, if you want to add someone to your voucher for any other reason (besides birth, adoption, court awarded custody), you must request approval in writing from MDHCV before you let that individual move into your unit. Your landlord must also approve addition of the new household member. Once you receive approval in writing from MDHCV, you can let the new member move into your unit.
You may add family members for the following reasons:
- Spouses, co-heads, or domestic partners
- Birth, adoption, or court-ordered custody of a minor
- The placement of a foster child or foster adult in the home
- ADA approved live-in-aide
- Immediate relatives (sons, daughters, brothers, sisters, parents, grandparents and grandchildren), may be added for
humanitarian and extraordinary reasons, including reasonable accommodation
- The person must be eligible for participation in the HCV program; and
- The person’s income must be considered when calculating your rent
Changes in income:
- You must report all changes in income within 10 days of the change. Any verification documents submitted must be dated within 60 calendar days of the date MDHCV requests them.
- We will recalculate your total tenant payment (TTP) and the amount of assistance MDHCV will provide on your behalf. You will receive 30-day notice of any tenant portion increases.
You may submit your Interim request by submitting through our online portal in regards to any changes to your income, family composition or expenses. MDHCV will adjust your portion accordingly if approved. You can submit your supporting documents by submitting through the online portal, emailing it to customercare@mdvoucher.com (include your entity ID in the subject line), schedule an appointment to drop of your documents or mail it to PO BOX 521750 Miami FL 33152 (include your entity ID on ALL pages).
Participant families must inform MDHCV within 30 days of additions to the family due to birth, adoption, or otherwise granted custody to the family by operation of law or if a family member moves out.
As per Florida Health, it takes up to 7 days to receive a newborn's Birth certificate.
MDHCV will allow up to 90 days for a newborn social security card. As per SSA.gov, it takes up to one week to get your newborn's social security card.
You must complete an Interim Request or you may add the minor to your Annual Recertification if it is due. You would need to submit the following:
- Submit a copy of the minors birth certificate (Footprint certificate will not be accepted), copy of social
security document and complete the Declaration of US Citizenship form.
- Minor added due to adoption: Submit all adoption paperwork
- Minor added due to court awarded custody: Submit court awarded custody documents
- Minor added due to temporary custody: Temporary custody documents such as notarized written statement
from the parents listed on the birth certificate
- Temporary custody will be reviewed case-by-case for approval
You may submit your supporting documents by submitting through our online portal , emailing it to customercare@mdvoucher.com (include your entity ID in the subject line), schedule an appointment to drop of your documents or mail it to PO BOX 521750 Miami FL 33152 (include your entity ID on ALL pages).
- Head of Household must submit an interim request(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab)(opens in a new tab) requesting to remove the existing Live-in-aide and to add a new Live-in-aide.
- The new live-in-aide must submit a copy of a valid state issued ID and a copy their Social Security card.
- The LIA must sign the Debts Owed to PHA and General Consent Form.
- Both the Head of Household and LIA must sign the LIA agreement.
You may submit your Interim request and supporting documents by submitting through our online portal, emailing it to customercare@mdvoucher.com (include your entity ID in the subject line), schedule an appointment to drop of your documents or mail it to PO BOX 521750 Miami FL 33152 (include your entity ID on ALL pages).
You may submit a service request or contact a customer service representative at the MDHCV’s Customer Service Call Center by calling 305-403-3222 (TTY: 1-800-955-8771.) to request a copy of your HUD-50058. The HUD-50058 document is a HUD form that will list all of your household member’s name.
Minor children that are away from home due to school will be included on the voucher and can not be removed.
Adult members that are away for college are not required to be removed. If the adult student remains on the voucher they must sign all required forms and submit income/assets as required for the Annual Recertification.
If the adult member is removed and then later wants to be added back to the voucher, MDHCV will conduct a pre-certification screening of any returning family members to determine whether MDHCV will allow the family member to be added back to the family composition.
Dependent Allowance is a $480 deduction per dependent (annually). The head, spouse/co-head,
foster child, foster adult or live-in-aide will not qualify as a dependent
How to qualify:
- A family member is under 18 years of age, or
- Over 18 and
- A full-time student. A full-time student is a person who is attending school or vocational training on a full-time basis (Full-time is defined by the institution)
- A person with a disability.
- Verification of disability includes receipt of Social Security Disability, Supplemental Security income, or a verification from a knowledgeable professional
Elderly/Disability Allowance is a $400 deduction per family (annually).
How
to qualify:
- The head, spouse/cohead is a person who is at least 62 years of age or a person with disabilities.
- Verification of disability includes receipt of Social Security Disability, Supplemental Security income, or a verification from a knowledgeable professional
Child Care Expenses
How to qualify:
- There must be children on the voucher under 13 years of age (includes foster children)
- The child care must enable an adult family member to actively seek employment, be gainfully employed or to attend school
- Child care expenses must be reasonable and amounts anticipated to be paid by the family during the period for which annual income is computed.
- Child care expense is an out-of pocket expense and are not reimbursed
Disability Assistance Expense: Families may deduct reasonable anticipated expenses
for attendant care and auxiliary apparatus (examples: wheelchairs, ramps, or adaptations to
vehicles) for family members with disabilities
How to qualify:
- Expense is necessary to enable a family member to be employed (This may be the disabled member)
- The expenses are neither paid to a member of the family nor reimbursed by an outside source
- The allowance is equal to the amount by which the cost of the care attendant or auxiliary apparatus exceeds 3% of the total annual income
Medical Expense:
How to qualify:
- The head, spouse/cohead is a person who disabilities or at least 62+ years of age
- Has out-of-pocket medical expenses that are anticipated during the period for which annual income is computed, and that are not covered by insurance
- Typically allowable medical expenses include (not limited to): Co-payments, medical insurance premiums, prescriptions, transportation for treatment, dental expenses, eye expenses, and hearing aides expenses
- You may refer the IRS publication 502 for additional examples of medical expenses
Tenant and landlord relationship questions
An owner can identify on the lease additional fees for amenities such as security free, washer/dryer fee, pet fee, etc. You will be agreeing to the fee (in addition to your rent portion) once you execute the lease. Never pay an owner an amount that is different than what is required by MDHCV or on your lease.
Collecting side payments from participants is a serious offense by the owner and punishable under federal law. If an owner or property manager asks for a payment outside the agreed upon rent or lease, immediately report it to MDHCV by going online or calling our Call Center at 305-403-3222.
A participant or property manager that pays or collects a side payment will be removed from
the HCV program. If your owner wishes to raise your rent then advise them to complete the
Rent Increase form through our portal.
If an owner fails to comply with two failed inspections, the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) will be abated beginning no later than the day after the re-inspection. The unit may remain in abatement status for a maximum of 180 days upon which time the HAP contract will automatically terminate. The abatement goes into effect the day after the failed/no show re-inspection. The unit will remain in abatement until the unit passes a re-inspection. The Owner is not entitled to receive HAPs for any period that the unit is in abatement nor will the Owner receive retroactive repayments for any HAP withheld during that time.
During the abatement, the tenant is still responsible for their portion of the rent. However, because the abatement is in accordance with the HAP Contract (the agreement between the Owner and MDHCV), the family is not liable for this unpaid portion of the rent and therefore, the Owner may not “recover” any abated HAP from the tenant.
In addition, federal regulations prohibit using HAP abatement as grounds for evicting a tenant. If an owner or property manager asks for a payment for unpaid HAP due to an abatement, immediately report it to MDHCV by going online or calling our Call Center at 305-403-3222
If you are in a lease, you can stay in the unit until your lease ends. If the owner does plan to cancel your lease, you have rights. Laws protect you from sudden eviction if a owner forecloses the building or unit in which you live. To learn more about these rights, you contact Legal Services of Greater Miami, Inc. at 305-576-0080 or visit www.legalservicesmiami.org .
If you are being evicted from your unit due to serious lease violations (Examples:
unpaid rent or destruction to your property), it is a violation of your family
obligations and you will subject to termination.
Tenants have a basic right to privacy in their rental homes. However, That doesn't mean that landlords always need an invitation to enter. Under Florida state law (Fla. Stat. Ann. § 83.53), landlords can enter rented premise in the following circumstances:
- The tenant shall not unreasonably withhold consent to the landlord to enter the dwelling unit from time to time in order to inspect the premises; make necessary or agreed repairs, decorations, alterations, or improvements; supply agreed services; or exhibit the dwelling unit to prospective or actual purchasers, mortgagees, tenants, workers, or contractors.
- The landlord may enter the dwelling unit at any time for the protection or
preservation of the premises. The landlord may enter the dwelling unit
upon reasonable notice to the tenant and at a reasonable time for the purpose
of repair of the premises. “Reasonable notice” for the purpose of repair
is notice given at least 24 hours prior to the entry, and reasonable time
for the purpose of repair shall be between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 8:00
p.m. The landlord may enter the dwelling unit when necessary for the further
purposes set forth in subsection (1) under any of the following circumstances:
- With the consent of the tenant;
- In case of emergency;
- When the tenant unreasonably withholds consent; or
- If the tenant is absent from the premises for a period of time equal to one-half the time for periodic rental payments. If the rent is current and the tenant notifies the landlord of an intended absence, then the landlord may enter only with the consent of the tenant or for the protection or preservation of the premises.
- The landlord shall not abuse the right of access nor use it to harass the tenant.
To learn more about these rights, you contact Legal Services of Greater Miami, Inc. at 305-576-0080 or visit www.legalservicesmiami.org
Any notification of foreclosure/selling of a unit received by MDHCV shall be maintained in the tenant file. Preliminary notice of foreclosure action/selling of the unit does not necessitate that the family move. If a property is foreclosed/sold during the term of the lease, the new owner cannot require the tenant to vacate the property prior to the effective date of transfer of ownership. However, the tenancy can be terminated as of the effective date of transfer if the owner:
- Will occupy the unit as a primary resident; and
- Has provided the tenant a 90-day notice to vacate.
Otherwise, the new owner shall assume the same lease and HAP contract that was effective between the prior owner, tenant, and MDHCV. To request a Change of Ownership the New Owner can complete the new vendor form at https://www.mdvoucher.com/newvendor.
Except for families affected by Government Action, such as Public Housing Relocatees, the family is responsible for paying the Security Deposit. Families affected by a Government Action will receive additional information on how to receive Security Deposit Assistance.
The security deposit should not exceed the greater of:
- one month’s rent, or
- your family share of the first and last month’s rent.
The first and last month rent (which is based on your family share) can only be charged if the owner can demonstrate that they also charge unassisted tenants the first and last month’s rent as security deposit.
If you have other tenants in the MDHCV program, the overpayment will be deducted from your future HAP payment. [Section 7(f) HAP contract]. If you do not have other tenants, to avoid further action, please return the overpaid amount immediately. Make your check payable to (include tenant name and tenant ID from above):
Miami-Dade Public Housing and Community Development
Housing
Choice Voucher Program
C/O Finance Department
P.O.
Box 521750
Reasonable Accommodation
No, a Live-in-aide can not be an existing member in the household because they were a member of the household prior to the approval for the need of a LIA. The definition of a LIA is a person who resides with persons with disabilities and who:
- Is determined to be essential to the care and wellbeing of the persons;
- Is not obligated for the support of the persons (Spouse or parent);
- and would not be living in the unit except to provide the necessary supportive services.
This request will be reviewed case-by-case and must be approved by MDHCV. You should submit an Interim Request and submit a written statement detailing the reason for the change.
You may submit your supporting documentation by submitting through our online portal, emailing it to customercare@mdvoucher.com (include your entity ID in the subject line), schedule an appointment to drop of your documents or mail it to PO BOX 521750 Miami FL 33152 (include your entity ID on ALL pages).
Family Self Sufficiency Program and Homeownership Opportunity Program
FSS is a voluntary incentive program that provides services and support to assist families currently enrolled in the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program, to become regularly employed and meet their individual goals. This program helps families and individuals (participants) learn to take control of their lives and achieve economic independence within 5 years.
Each head of household voluntarily enrolls in the FSS program by completing an assessment application and signing a Contract of Participation (COP) and developing an Individual Training and Service Plan with an HCV FSS Advisor. The contract and the corresponding plan outline the responsibilities of the family and the Housing Authority (HA) to meet financial and employment goals.
The FSS Advisor and the participant work together to define and choose career and financial goals. Working as a team, the participant and the FSS Advisor identify and eliminate obstacles to financial independence.
A great incentive to the program is that participants receive an interest bearing escrow (savings) account. The escrow account accrues as the household’s portion of rent increase because of increases in earned income. The savings account is held until the participant successfully completes the contract. The contract can be completed in two ways:
- When the participant has completed all of their goals before the end of their contract and has been free of welfare benefits (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families - this does not include food stamps, medical assistance or child care assistance) for 12 consecutive months, OR
- When 30% of the participants adjusted income exceeds the HUD Fair Market Rent for the household.
Once the participant has successfully completed the contract, the escrow account may be used as they wish. If the participant does not report income changes on time, it could adversely affect their escrow account.
The escrow account and the accrued interest
are not required to be reported to any other
agency since it is not a resource or property
for the participant until successful completion
of the contract. In addition, the Internal
Revenue Service has ruled that FSS escrow payments
are non-taxable.
FSS participants must complete and sign a contract and have a current, signed plan. The contract and the attached plan provide the basis for the participant’s goals and describes the specific activities they must complete. Each participant has up to five years to reach economic self-sufficiency. The contract and all of the activities on the plan must be completed to access the escrow savings account.
The participant is also responsible for
maintaining contact with their FSS Advisor
and following through on other commitments
established in the contract and plan.
A participant’s plan is revised and updated
as the household moves towards economic
self-sufficiency. The program offers households
the flexibility to adjust its plan as necessary
with approval from the HA and the participant.
You can contact a customer service representative at the MDHCV’s Customer Service Call Center by calling 305-403-3222 (TTY: 1-800-955-8771.) and express your interest.
The Miami-Dade Homeownership Opportunity Program may provide assistance to eligible voucher participants to purchase a home (single-family dwelling, condominium unit, or manufactured unit) using their voucher subsidy.
The goals of the program are to assist families to become financially knowledgeable and credit worthy, so they can move into homeownership; educate families about their rights and responsibilities as program participants and homeowners; inform families about available resources and how to identify, access, and utilize them; to encourage family community involvement; and to provide stability, security and a sense of self sufficiency.
You may be eligible for the Homeownership Program if you meet the following criteria:
- A Current Housing Choice Voucher Participant
- In good standing with PHCD; no outstanding/ unpaid debt or unpaid rent
- In compliance with current lease
- No previous default on a mortgage while assisted under PHCD’s Homeownership Program
- No financial interest in any other property
- No history of late payments
- Considered a First Time Homebuyer
- Employed full-time for at least one year (elderly and/or disabled are exempt for this criteria)
- Income eligible: $14,500 federal minimum wage annually (Elderly and/or disabled are exempt from this criteria)
You can contact a customer service representative at the MDHCV’s Customer Service Call Center by calling 305-403-3222 (TTY: 1-800-955-8771.) and express your interest.
The following documents must be submitted during the Annual re-certification for Homeownership (HOP) participant:
- Application for continued eligibility (ACE)
- HUD 9886
- All reported income, assets and expenses
- Most recent insurance policy – Homeowner Policy and Flood (If applicable)
- Homeownership Association
statements
or coupons
- Special assessments (If applicable): An increase of HOA monthly dues in the event of unexpected repairs (Replacing all units roofs due to hurricane damage)
- Most recent mortgage statement
- Most recent escrow analysis (Projections for the upcoming year)
- Most recent loan statement
- Property Tax Bill for Prior Year
- Documents reporting a secondary/third mortgage loan
- Documents which report participant is participating in any county home maintenance/beautification assistance program
- Change in Civil Status