Effective: March 2009
The Annual Re-examination (AR) procedures apply to Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), the Moderate Rehabilitation Program (MRP), Single Room Occupancy (SRO) Program and project-based vouchers that were converted from HCV by MSHDA to its HCV project-based voucher allocation.
Housing Agents (HA) must complete Annual Re-examinations (ARs) promptly, regardless of the completion of other annual activities (e.g. income verifications, HQS inspection, and/or rent negotiations).
The income re-examination must be processed on the AR date regardless of whether the family stays in place, moves, or intends to move. A review of the family’s income must take place at least annually.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) presents the following issues and parameters for AR:
The AR procedures comply with HUD/SEMAP mandates. Procedures emphasize timely completion/transmission of ARs regardless of whether other annual activities have been completed.
When the landlord requests a contract rent increase, the HA must research and submit rent reasonableness data (i.e. comparables). See Chapter VII. Rent Reasonableness.
Any AR that does not intend to renew would be considered either an End of Participation (EOP) or AR “Searching” which will address those participants who intend to move.
Refer to Exhibit 1 for the suggested AR Process Timeline chart. Compliance with deadlines identified on the chart ensures an on-time AR.
Following each monthly payroll (the first business day of the month), the Housing Agent (HA) must print the Upcoming Annual Re-examinations in Elite for the next 120 days. Refer to Elite User Guide. This report identifies all participants and landlords who must be contacted for AR. Print updated reports periodically to eliminate the possibility of missing a required re-exam (due to initial lease terms of less than one year or late processing of initials/moves). For example, after the May 1, 2005 payroll, print the report for the August 31, 2005 expirations.
MSHDA determines a reasonable submission date (cut-off) schedule to ensure timely MTCS transmissions and landlord/tenant payments.
Commence the AR income process 120 days in advance of the AR date to ensure the ability to meet HUD’s 100% on-time AR requirement. Refer to the Elite Cut-Off Schedule. Submit AR material to the Lansing or Detroit MSHDA office by the established cut-off date. A Department Tech (DT) reviews the material and approves accurate cases in Elite before the ‘Last Day to Cancel or Enter Abatement to Stop Payment’ date noted on the cut-off schedule. Even if abating, the AR must still be processed on time. The HA must enter abatement in the Elite by the ‘Last Day to Cancel or Enter Abatement to Stop Payment’ date on the cut-off schedule.
Any AR paperwork received after the cut-off date is considered late and cannot be guaranteed approval. If time permits, the DT will authorize; however, HA submissions will be monitored for DT cut-off date compliance. Late transactions adversely affect MSHDA’s on-time AR rate with HUD and timely payments to landlords.
Unless ending participation, the tenant must RECEIVE their copy of the MSHDA 52 (versus the mail date), regardless of rent increase or not, no later than 60 DAYS prior to the AR effective date. To ensure timely receipt, it is recommended the MSHDA 52 be mailed by the 25th of the second month of the re-exam cycle.
The HA:
If a copy was completed via a phone call, complete the information on the form, make copies, and distribute as described above.
No later than 14 days after printing the 120-day Upcoming Annual Re-examination Report (in Elite), the HA requests the head of household and each adult household member to complete and return the following documents:
The “Return By” date on the requests for documents must be 14 days. If documents are not received promptly, HA must send a follow-up request if there is no response.
Note: A meeting with the tenant may be scheduled to initiate the process rather than commencing the process by mail.
Follow processes outlined in Chapter IV, Income, Income Verification Section.
If the income information received during the AR is substantially different from previously reported income and/or tenant has unreported income, continue the re-examination process while the discrepancy is being resolved. Depending on the outcome of the investigation, a Repayment Agreement (MSHDA 103) may need to be executed or the tenant cancelled from the program.
Family Size Subsidy Decrease (MSHDA 147) - If the family size decreases, causing a reduction in voucher eligibility size, the family must be immediately notified in writing via a Family Size Subsidy Decrease form (MSHDA 147). The MSHDA 147 includes an explanation of the decision, informal hearing rights, and circumstances when a waiver may be obtained.
Issue New Voucher - If a waiver is not requested or approved, decrease voucher eligibility size to the new eligibility size Payment Standard (PS) effective with the current AR date or move date, whichever occurs first. For example, a change occurs on December 1, 2004, the change would be effective at the AR on June 1, 2005 unless the tenant moves prior to that date. - Update the voucher eligibility bedroom size in Elite. See Elite User Guide.
Adjustment Notification (MSHDA 34) - Identify the members no longer residing in the household using the Additional Provisions Section of the form (“Removing ... from Lease/Contract”) or list current members.
HA determines if the tenant is delinquent (over 60 days in arrears with their tenant repayment agreement), by checking Elite to see if there is a current balance.
The Annual Re-examination Notice (MSHDA 52) notifies the landlord that MSHDA will perform an Adjustment Notification re-examination. By completing the form, the landlord identifies:
The HA completes the following on the MSHDA 52:
The HA also:
Between the 30th and 45th day, if the landlord still does not respond, the HA will:
For tenant notification requirements, refer to Section E, item 6.
As indicated by the language in the MSHDA 52, MSHDA will proceed with the re-examination at the current rental rate.
Note: In counties where there has been a 5% decrease in the Fair Market Rent (FMR) (and subsequent decrease in the Payment Standards [PS]), a Contract Rent decrease may be required. If this occurs, instructions will be provided.
Upon receipt of the MSHDA 52 requesting a rent increase (or completion of the MSHDA 52 by the HA), the HA confirms that the requested rent is reasonable and supported by comparables. (For more information, see Chapter VII, Rent Reasonableness).
Review the MSHDA 52 and new lease and investigate any discrepancies. Compare this to the most recent file data regarding utilities, appliances, landlord changes, etc. If there are any changes in lease requirements governing tenant or owner responsibilities, then a new lease and HAP contract must be executed.
If the landlord returns the MSHDA 52 at a later date (i.e. after the anniversary date or after the re-exam has been processed), implement the increased Contract Rent (subject to rent reasonableness requirements) via an Interim Re-examination.
Do not implement the revised increased Contract Rent until the landlord provides 60 days notice (no pro-rating) to the tenant and MSHDA.
If the owner changes who provides utility or appliances, then a new contract and lease is required as outlined in the Tenancy Addendum (HUD 52641A).
After the initial lease term (usually one year), the landlord may increase the Contract Rent (subject to the renewal provisions in the lease and rent reasonableness requirements) as long as the landlord has provided 60 days written notice (per Section 15.d. of HUD Tenancy Addendum) to the tenant and MSHDA. The MSHDA 52 process addresses the increase notice requirement for AR.
If the landlord is delinquent, see Accounts Receivable section of Chapter XIX, Operations and contact your DT.
At AR, the HQS inspection must be performed within 365 days of the last Annual HQS Inspection date entered in Elite (versus last passed inspection date). The HA must review the last inspected date and schedule the AR inspection date accordingly. Note: It is suggested that the inspection be performed earlier than the deadline (week five or earlier). Verbally confirm the appointment to avoid an unexpected cancellation or discover the inspector cannot obtain access to the unit to perform the inspection within the 365 day required period.
Notify tenant and landlord of inspection via a Notice of Inspection (MSHDA 104). Notify the tenant and landlord of deficiencies found using an Inspection Deficiencies Notice (MSHDA 105). At AR, all units must satisfy the HQS requirements regardless of whether or not the tenant expects to remain in the unit for the entire year.
Do not hold or delay an AR in Elite pending an inspection and/or repairs because the on-time AR requirement and the annual HQS requirements are adversely affected. Enter the last inspected date in Elite and complete the AR.
Abatements – If an abatement exists on the unit as of the anniversary date, process the AR. If applicable, process a cancellation later. Note: If the abatement begin date has been entered in Elite, the Elite system will not issue future payments.
Refer to MSHDA’s HQS Manual for inspection procedures.
The affordability (i.e. 40%) test does NOT apply for in-place ARs even if the gross rent exceeds the PS.
Contract Rent increases must meet 'rent reasonableness' standards as evidenced by comparables. If comparables cannot be found, renegotiate the rent (or utility/appliance provider) within allowable limits or the tenant must relocate to an eligible unit to retain their subsidy.
The subsidy amount (MSHDA payment) may not increase. The Gross Rent (Contract Rent plus Utility Allowance) can exceed the PS if the family agrees to pay the difference (assuming the Contract Rent is reasonable).
If no contract rent increase or utility change, no further action is needed. (per the MSHDA 52), print and submit a copy of the Rent Reasonable Certificate with the file. Indicate in writing on the Rent Reasonable Certificate that comparables are not required. The Rent Reasonable Certificate would be located in Part 4 (Landlord Section).
Note: Counties where there has been a decrease in the FMR (and subsequently PS), require a rent reasonableness review, which may necessitate a Contract Rent decrease. If this occurs, MSHDA will provide instructions.
See Chapter VII, Rent Reasonableness, for further information.
Utilize the Adjustment Notification (MSHDA 34) to note any changes including the revised rent amount and new effective date.
If the family's income results in no HAP payment by MSHDA (i.e. TTP equals or exceeds the Gross Rent or PS, whichever is applicable) the family remains eligible for assistance provided they remain in the same unit and have an active HAP Contract (HUD 52641).
Note: The family may move during the grace period (6 months) if the move results in a HAP payment at the new unit. Under no circumstances can a new contract (e.g. in-place or move) be negotiated which results in a zero HAP.
Upon identification of the Zero HAP payment, proceed as follows:
Complete the following actions for Zero HAP notification:
If the tenant is not participating in FSS, they should receive a copy of the FSS/MSHDA Key to Own along with a listing of the FSS Resource Coordinators (RC). If the tenant is interested in participating in the FSS Program, they will need to contact the FSS RC directly. Note: FSS does not apply to MRP and SRO Programs norour vouchers designated PBV.
See Chapter XXI, Enhanced Subsidies For Housing Voucher Conversion Actions for additional information.
Note: Enhanced vouchers do not apply to the MRP and SRO programs; nor our vouchers designated as Project Based Vouchers.
If MSHDA does not receive proper notice, the tenant cannot receive rental assistance upon relocation to a new unit. For more information, see Chapter X. Moves.
If the HA believes termination should occur, the HA can terminate the assistance. Documentation showing good reasons and proper paperwork must be in the file. End of Participation procedures should be followed. For more information regarding these actions, see Chapter XIV, Terminations.
The policy on ARS does not apply to those participants with enhanced vouchers, or participants on the MRP or SRO Programs.
The ARS certification code will apply to any “continuously assisted” family who is not in an assisted unit at the time the voucher is issued, e.g. a family that is between units. The ARS certification must be used if a family wishes to port out at the time of their AR. A payment hold must be placed for the tenant until the next certification is completed. Another certification must be submitted within 60 days of the ARS certification date. The next certification will be one of the following: AR in the same unit, AR in different unit, or EOP.
The collection and submission of income/asset/expense verifications is not required for the completion of an ARS certification. Complete the ARS certification with the previous year's AR information. Submit the 1344 for the ARS certification to the appropriate MSHDA office for case approval.
Note: Rental and utility payments will not be made because a payment hold has been placed on the tenant.
Complete the move per policy, see Chapter X. Moves.
Failure to process a proper EOP in Elite adversely affects MSHDA's on-time AR rate with HUD.
Note: If the tenant is not leaving the program and not renewing the lease, refer to Section K, Annual Re-examination Searching.
State law requires a 30-day advance written notice to the tenant of all Tenant Rent increases.
Since the AR process begins 120 days in advance, even with tenant delays, in most instances 30-day advance written notice should be achievable.
Changes (increases or decreases) in Tenant Rent almost always become effective at the AR (anniversary) date.
Note: Tenant-caused delays apply to late receipt of initial documents (1890, 9886, 51a). A tenant delay for income/asset/expense verifications only occurs if the source has not returned the verifications directly to MSHDA and the tenant does not comply with MSHDA’s request for tenant-provided original documents (i.e. statements, receipts, etc.).
If the cause of the delay has been documented, which has been documented by timely requests for documents and timely Final Notices, (which includes the waiver language):
If the tenant did not cause the delay (or proper documentation does not exist), the law requires a 30-day notice. Maintain the current tenant rent and provide the proper notice before increasing the rent. Two Elite transactions and Adjustment Notifications are required to complete the AR.
If the delay results in a Tenant Rent DECREASE, process the AR with the lower tenant rent amount. If the AR has been paid, process a change active contract effective with the AR date.
Document late receipt of verifications on the MSHDA 77 form to explain why the previous income information is being used.
No Documents Submitted by Anniversary Date
Terminations/EOP’s may also occur when:
Refer to Chapter XIV, Terminations for more information.
Terminations require written notice to the tenant (MSHDA 1634b) and landlord (MSHDA 95) unless a Mutual Termination Agreement (MSHDA 96) has been executed. Cite the specific reasons why the tenant was terminated on the MSHDA 1634b.
Refer to the Elite User Guide to update the following in Elite as applicable:
Refer to the Forms Reference Submission Chart (MSHDA 284) for required documents.
Type/prepare documents.
The Adjustment Notification (MSHDA 34) serves as the lease/contract renewal document.
If the Landlord intends to execute a new lease, the HA must also execute a corresponding HCV Contract (HUD 52641) and an Adjustment Notification (MSHDA 34) with the ‘Annual Re-examination’ box checked.
Obtain signatures on documents where necessary.
After document execution, do not change or alter the documents (no corrections or strike-outs) unless appropriate parties initial the change(s).
Distribute copies of documents to the appropriate parties
Organize the file in proper order and copy necessary documents for out-county files (refer to the Forms Reference/Submission Chart, MSHDA 284).
Ensure that all documents and copies are legible.
Forward all original documents (including FSS documents, if applicable) to the assigned Lansing or Detroit office along with the completed Case Data Summary form.
The assigned DT will review the material in accordance with designated audit procedures.
Correct any deficiencies as identified by the assigned DT by the identified deadlines.
Correct Elite errors, if any, and submit the Case Data Summary, MSHDA 1344, and any other required documents to the assigned DT.
See Chapter IX, Interim Re-examination, for information about corrections that require a 30-day notice or with the same effective date.
Refer to Chapter VI, Initial Contracts, for additional information about and/or the definition of a subsidized development.
The HUD Tenancy Addendum requires a 60-day written notice to the tenant and MSHDA of any Contract Rent increase.
Upon verified approval by Rural Development, MSHDA, or HUD, the Contract Rent may increase. The MSHDA 52 completed by the landlord can document proof of rent increase requests or the annual increase schedule provided by MSHDA’s Management Division with a note whether the landlord will use his own lease. Note: If the Gross Rent exceeds the PS, the increase affects the Tenant Rent.
Always use the basic (not market) rent charged for the unit as the Contract Rent (Basic Rent = Contract Rent).
HUD requires three Rent Surveys for subsidized development rent increases. See Chapter VII – Rent Reasonableness/Comparables for more information.
Upon request, print the Family Report (HUD 50058) and forward it to the development.
MHSR only applies to “grand-fathered in” contracts in place effective prior to December 31, 2000.
MHSR utilize the Manufactured Home HAP Contract (HUD 52642A). The tenant and MSHDA require 60 days’ notice of any Space Rent increase.
The HAP equals the lesser of the Lot Rent Payment Standard (LRPS) [The LR column of the PS chart] minus the TTP or the space rent (SR) minus the TTP (HAP = lesser of LRPS – TTP or SR-TTP).
HUD requires three space Rent Surveys for rent increases
HUD’s Section Eight Management Assessment Program (SEMAP) requires an AR rate of 100%.
HUD defines 100% compliance as having the AR completed by the day following the expiration of the tenant’s current contract. If the initial effective date is pro-rated (and the initial lease term exceeds one year), the AR effective date becomes the day following the end of the 13th month.
HUD collects this data from the Public/Indian Housing Information Center (PIC).
HUD does not permit any delay in the AR execution, regardless of a two-month allowance for the transmission of PIC data.
SEMAP requires an annual Housing Quality Standard (HQS) inspection. HUD defines annual as no more than 365 days from the last inspected (versus the last passed) date.
MSHDA Form # |
Name of Form |
| 14 | Final Notice |
| 15 | Certification of Live-In Aide Status |
| 16 | Verification of Disability and/or Special Medical Needs |
| 25 | Zero Housing Assistance Payment Notification |
| 34 | Adjustment Notification |
| 38 | Reasonable Rent Test Evaluation |
| 51b | Rental Unit Information |
| 52 | Annual Re-examination Notice |
| 53a | Request for Original Documents |
| 86 | Delayed Exterior Repair Agreement |
| 95 | Contract Termination Notice |
| 96 | Mutual Lease Termination Agreement |
| 103 | Tenant Repayment Agreement |
| 107 | Verification of Public Assistance and State SSI |
| 147 | Family Size Subsidy Decrease |
| 148 | Verification of No Household Income |
| 219 | Payee Registration |
| 28138 | Inspection/Reasonable Rent Test Evaluation |
| 284 | Forms Reference/Submission Chart |
| 411 | Assignment of Housing Assistance Payments Contract and Lease |
| 488 | Household Living Expense Questionnaire |
| 1890 | Household, Income, Asset, and Expense Declaration |
| 1344 | Case Data Summary |
| 1634b | Application Denial/Program Termination |
| 1637b | Disclosure of Information on Lead-Based Paint and its Hazards |
| Lease | |
| FSS Informational Brochure | |
| Key to Own Homeownership Brochure | |
| Income/asset/expense verifications based on previous information |
HUD Form # |
Name of Form |
| 9886 | Authorization For Release of Information |
| 50058 | Family Report |
| 52641 | Housing Assistance Payments Contract (HAP Contract) |
| 52641A | Tenancy Addendum |
| 52642 | HAP Contract/Manufactured Home |
| 52642A | HAP Contract/Manufactured Home Tenancy Addendum |
| 52646 | Voucher |