Housing Voucher Programs - Policy and Procedures Manual

Chapter I Sections

1. Background/Evolution of Program
2. Program Components
3. Key Program Documents
4. Roles and Responsibilities
5. Occupancy Cycle
6. Payment Standards (PS)
7. Privacy Rights
8. Multi-Family Tenant Characteristics System (MTCS)
9. Section Eight Management Assessment Program (SEMAP)
10. Portability
11. Applicable Forms List

Chapter I: General Information

Section G: Privacy Rights

• Applicants and participants, including the head of household, spouse, and all adults in their household, regardless of age, are required to sign the HUD 9886, Authorization for Release of Information. This document incorporates the Federal Privacy Act Statement and describes the conditions under which HUD/PHA will release family information.
• The PHA’s policy regarding release of information is in accordance with state and local laws, which may restrict the release of family information. Any requests for confidential information must be in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Guidelines.
• MSHDA’s practices and procedures are designed to safeguard the privacy of applicants and program participants. All applicant and participant files will be stored in a secure location which is only accessible by authorized staff or HAs.
• MSHDA staff and contracted agents will not discuss family information contained in files unless there is a business reason to do so. Inappropriate discussion of family information or improper disclosure of family information by staff or agents will result in disciplinary action.