Effective: May 2009
Many decisions made that affect Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) eligibility or level of assistance require notification to assisted families of their right to an Informal Review or Hearing. Informal Reviews apply only to applicants including port-ins. Informal Hearings apply to participants. Decisions related to restrictions/terminations for applicant non-citizens require an Informal Hearing versus an Informal Review only if MSHDA denies assistance based on citizenship or ineligible immigrant status. (24 CFR Part 5). The purpose of an Informal Review or Hearing is to resolve applicant/participant disputes with MSHDA without legal action and, if applicable, to correct errors. Adverse actions cannot occur until a decision has been rendered through the informal hearing process.
Mediations are offered to participants who fail to report, or under-report their household income so the participant has an opportunity to review EIV and third party income verifications, and a Repayment Agreement can be negotiated to avoid loss of rental assistance.
Informal Reviews are offered to applicants and port-ins who are denied assistance before the effective date of the HAP contract. The applicant may request an Informal Review of the PHA decision denying assistance to the applicant in all circumstances other than those cited Section B below.