HCV Essentials (Previously known as HCV: Occupancy, Eligibility, Income, and Rent Calculation)
Description:
HCV Essentials is an introductory course designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program. This training equips attendees with the foundational knowledge to effectively administer the program and support its purpose of assisting low-income families. Participants will explore key topics such as the program’s structure, eligibility criteria, waiting list management, and essential calculations.
Attendees will gain practical skills in calculating annual income, applying deductions to determine adjusted income, and understanding how income impacts tenant eligibility and rent determination. The course also covers rent calculation, including determining rent portions, utility allowances, and total tenant payment (TTP). Case studies and real-world examples are included throughout the training to reinforce learning and provide practical application of the concepts covered.
For participants interested in certification, completing this course will prepare them for the exam while ensuring they have the tools and knowledge to demonstrate their proficiency in administering the HCV program. This training is designed to ensure all participants, regardless of their level of experience, gain the skills and confidence needed to manage HCV program requirements effectively.
Successful completion fulfills a requirement for the Certified Specialist of Eligibility and Calculation – Housing Choice Voucher (CSEC-HCV) and Certified Specialist of Occupancy – Housing Choice Vouchers (CSO-HCV) certifications. Uncover more about these certifications here. Note: A certification-related exam incurs an additional fee. Embark on this learning journey to master HCV program intricacies and excel in eligibility determination with a sense of accomplishment!
Objectives:
After completing this training, participants will be able to:
- Define the purpose and primary goals of the Housing Choice Voucher program.
- Recognize key stakeholders and locate resources to remain informed on evolving regulations.
- Explore effective methods for managing applications, organizing waiting lists and determining initial eligibility.
- Maneuver the voucher issuance and leasing process, including income and rent calculations.
- Conduct accurate annual and interim reexaminations to ensure households maintain eligibility and compliance.
- Manage program compliance, including processes for terminations, informal hearing, and adherence to regulatory requirements.
Who Should Attend?
- New HCV Staff
- Current HCV Staff
- Supervisors and Managers
- Housing Professionals transitioning to HCV roles
- Policy and compliance teams
Agenda
| Modules | Topics |
|---|---|
| Module 1 – Introduction to the HCV Program | -How the HCV Program works. -Roles and responsibilities of key stakeholders; |
| Module 2 – Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity | -Fair Housing Act. -Violence Against Women Act. -Accessibility for LEP. -Section 504, Rehabilitation Act. |
| Module 3 – Application and Eligibility | -Accepting applications. -Waiting list organization. -Eligibility factors. -Denial of assistance. -Verification requirements. |
| Module 5 – Annual Income | -Earned income. -Unearned income. -Asset income. -Annualizing income. |
| Module 6 – Adjusted Income | -Mandatory deductions. -Optional deductions. |
| Module 7 – Voucher Issuance & Leasing | -Briefing session. -Voucher issuance. -TTP calculation. -Rent calculation. |
| Module 8 – Continued Occupancy | -Reexaminations. -Interim reexaminations. -Moving with continued assistance. |
| Module 9 – Managing Terminations and Compliance | -Termination of assistance. -Alternatives to termination. -Informal hearings. |
| Module 10 – Exam Review | -Annual income. -Family assets. -Adjusted income and HCV requirements. -Calculations |
| Format | Length | CEUs |
| In-Person or Virtual Classroom | In-Person: 3 Days Online: 18 Hours | 2.0 |