Chapter XVII: Reasonable Accommodation


Section C: Accommodation Requests During Application Process

  • When waiting lists are open, all persons who wish to apply for MSHDA's housing choice voucher program must submit an application via written format. Generally this application is completed in the applicant’s own handwriting, unless assistance is needed, or a request for accommodation is requested by a person with a disability.
  • A reasonable accommodation must be provided by MSHDA when requested by a disabled applicant. Examples of changes to the application process that could be requested as a reasonable accommodation include: allowing additional time to submit an application, that information (including an application) be mailed to the applicant, or that the application be provided in an accessible format (large print.)
  • The HA may not remove the name of any disabled applicant from a waiting list whose failure to respond was a result of their disability. A disabled applicant has up to six months to request an appeal if their name has been removed for no response. An informal meeting with the assigned HA will be conducted to evaluate reinstatement. During the meeting, the applicant must prove that the reason for their failure to respond was directly related to their disability. Once verified, the applicant’s name must be reinstated on the waiting list according to their original application date and time.
  • When an applicant’s name is pulled from the waiting list, information about how to request a reasonable accommodation under the HCV program is included on the Voucher Information Form (MSHDA 145).