HCV Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Your financial help for a place to live is based on all the things you reported in your application.
It is very important that you get to know the requirements of the Housing Choice Voucher Program. The briefing packet provided when you first received assistance has important detailed information.
The Voucher Holder FAQs answer questions with up-to-date information about your rights, responsibilities, and opportunities while receiving financial support through HASB.
Learn more about how to keep your financial assistance and stay in your home.
Following the rules of your lease
Updating HASB about all household and income changes
Using our published forms to report new information
Rent and Utilities
- Q: How much rent does HASB pay? What is the "payment standard"?
A: HASB's voucher payment standards set the maximum amount the agency will pay each month to help a voucher holder with rent. HASB's payment standards are based on current average market rents for the area and the number of bedrooms in the unit. You will receive a notice that states your portion of the rent. Current participants may contact their Housing Choice Voucher Specialist for more information. - Q: Who pays for utilities?
A: Please refer to your lease, and, if you have any further questions, please contact a Housing Specialist. - Q: How often can rent be increased?
A: After the initial lease term has ended, rent can be increased once every 12 months. No rent increases will be approved during the initial lease term. - Q: Are there rules regarding the effective date of a rent increase?
A: Yes. All rent increases must take place on the first of the month and must be submitted to the Housing Authority of South Bend at least 60-days prior to the desired effective date. SBHA will adjust non-compliant dates to the nearest compliant date. - Q: Is there a dollar or percentage limit to how much a rent can be increased?
A: No. However, all rents are tested using a HUD approved third party service against similar rented/leased units in the area. If requested rent is above the average rent, the rental increase will be denied and a counteroffer will be made for the average rent found. Otherwise, the increase will be approved. The tenant has the option to accept or refuse the increased rent amount and may exercise their right to move as a result.
Reasonable Accommodation
- Q: I have a disability and need an accommodation to fully participate in the housing program. What do I do?
A: Please review our reasonable accommodation information. You may also contact your Housing Specialist to discuss your needs.
Domestic Violence
- Q: I am in a domestic violence situation and need immediate help.
A: Call 9-1-1 if you are in an emergency situation. Call The Family Justice Center 24-hour Crisis Line at 574-289-HELP (4357). They will be able to assist you with confidential assessments and direct referrals to community resources. You may also contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233. - Q: I am experiencing domestic violence and need to make a change to my housing. What do I do?
A: Please contact a Housing Specialist. You will be asked to fill out a certification form.
General Information
- Q: Who do I submit my paperwork to?
A: If you are solely requesting a rent increase, complete page 2 and submit this entire document to the email landlords@housingauthoritysouthbend.org. If your request includes a change of utility responsibility, complete the Change of Utility Responsibility Form (in addition to the Rent Increase Request Form). Documents may also be submitted via mail to the Housing Authority of South Bend.
