When an applicant or port-in family requests an Informal Review in writing within ten days of the date of the MSHDA 1634b, mail an Informal Review/Hearing Request form (MSHDA 97) to the applicant. The applicant must return the MSHDA 97 no later than ten days from the date of the MSHDA 97 to be granted an Informal Review. The Informal Review is conducted within 30 days from the receipt date of the MSHDA 97. The person who made or approved the decision under review, or a subordinate of such person, cannot conduct the Informal Review. Generally, a MSHDA Housing Choice Voucher Program staff person at the Resource Specialist level or above conducts the Informal Review (Reviewer).
The applicant and MSHDA are given the opportunity to present evidence and witnesses. The denied applicant may use an attorney or other representative to assist them at their own expense. The Reviewer should hold Informal Reviews in a face-to-face setting, but may conduct the Informal Review by mail and/or telephone if both parties accept this method.
The Reviewer has 30 days to provide a response in writing to the applicant after the Informal Review. The response includes the decision of the Reviewer and an explanation of the reasons for the decision.
All requests for an Informal Review, supporting documentation, and a copy of the final decision are retained in the applicant’s application file.