North Tampa Housing Development Corporation - Announcements RSS Feeds http://www.nthdc.org Agency Newsletters en-us 7/30/2010 3:35:31 AM <![CDATA[Notice to Property Owners and Management Agents]]> HUD has revised contracts for all pending (unfunded and unexecuted) contracts and future contract renewals. This will require the replacement of contracts which you have already submitted to us for renewal. This does not affect contracts that have already been executed and funded.

We are very interested in facilitating the timely replacement of your contract when funding is received. We hope to receive funding from HUD in the very near future, and will be sending replacement contracts for the signature of the owner at that time. Upon receipt, please have the owner execute the contract and sign immediately and return to NTHDC so we can complete the process as soon as possible.

To view the revised HAP Contracts please click on the following link


==>HAP Contracts Effective August 2007

...]]> <![CDATA[Notice of Proposed Delay to the Effective Date for the Refinement of Income and Rent ]]> As a reminder, a Notice of Proposed Delay in Effective Date for the Refinement of Income and Rent Determination Requirements in Public and Assisted Housing Programs final rule was published in the Federal Register on February 11, 2009.  The Notice requests public comment on a 60-day delay in the March 30, 2009, effective date and the delayed September 30, 2009, effective date for the Enterprise Income Verification (EIV) system to be mandatory for multifamily housing program users.  The Notice also solicits comments generally on the final rule itself.   Instructions on how to make comments are located in the Notice.

A link to the Notice that will be published in the Federal Register may be found under What’s New on the Multifamily Housing website at:  http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/hsgmulti.cfm.

 

...]]> <![CDATA[FY 2009 Income Limits ]]> HUD has released HUD’s FY2009 Median Family Income estimates and associated income limits data today via the Office of Policy Development and Research’s website found at www.huduser.org.

The FY2009 median family income estimates include several changes from previous years.  All of these changes can be found in the documentation released today.  The highlights include the incorporation of newly released ACS three year estimates covering 2005 – 2007, the elimination of the reliance upon BLS data in the smallest areas and the incorporation of OMB area changes first implemented with HUD’s release of FY2009 Fair Market Rents.

Also new for FY2009, HUD has developed a new website and tables of information specifically for users interested in obtaining data for use with Internal Revenue Code Section 42 Low-Income Housing Tax Credit projects and Section 142 projects financed with private activity bonds.  Projects in these 2 categories are now referred to by HUD as Multifamily Tax Subsidy Projects (MTSPs).  Documentation and data can be found at www.huduser.org/datasets/mtsp.hmtl.  Furthermore, HUD has developed an interactive documentation system for these data which will allow the user to select any area of the county and receive a summary of the appropriate income limits and maximum rental rates for these areas.  Links from the summary page will show exactly how the data were derived.  This system can be accessed directly at www.huduser.org/datasets/il/index_mtsp.html.

Users interested in HUD’s Section 8 income limits or users looking for income limits associated with IRC section 143 projects should visit http://www.huduser.org/datasets/il/il09/index.html.  The updated FY2009 documentation system for these data can be accessed directly at http://www.huduser.org/datasets/il/index_il2009.html. 

...]]> <![CDATA[30 Day Extension to File Annual Financial Statements]]> Due to HUD infrastructure performance problems, MF property owners have experienced difficulties submitting their financial statements due March 30, 2009 (for owners with a fiscal year end = 12/31).  The Office of Multifamily Housing Programs, Office of Asset Management has authorized REAC to implement a blanket 30 day extension for owners whose project fiscal year ends 12/31/2008 only.  Owners/auditors should not request an extension in FASS; the extension has been automatically implemented.  The extended FASS due date is 04/30/2009.  Owners who submit the financial statements on or before 4/30/2009 will not be referred to the Departmental Enforcement Center or be flagged in the Active Partners Performance System.

 

...]]> <![CDATA[Refinement of Income and Rent Determination Requirements in Public and Assisted Housing Programs]]> HUD delays the effective date of the January 27, 2009, final rule until September 30,2009. A delay until September 30, 2009 will provide HUD with additional time to review the public comments received in response to the February 11, 2009, notice, respond to those comments in a subsequent publication, and consider whether additional regulations or changes to the regulations in the January 27, 2009, final rule are necessary or appropriate. Since September 30, 2009, is the date in the January 27, 2009, final rule for multifamily housing owners and management agents to implement the use of EIV, the Department has determined not to provide additional delay in implementation in the use of EIV for multifamily housing owners and management agents as provided in the January 27, 2009, final rule. The implementation date for public housing agencies, multifamily housing owners, and management agents will now all be the same as the new effective date, September 30, 2009. Should HUD determine that additional rulemaking is necessary or appropriate, HUD will provide the public with the opportunity to comment on any proposed changes to the regulations in the January 27, 2009, final rule.

...]]> <![CDATA[Areas Affected by Flood Damage]]> All Owners and Agents:

 
Due to flooding in many areas in north Florida, we are requesting if you have damage and/or relocation of resident issues at any of your multifamily properties, please contact your project manager immediately.  We are being requested to report any problems due to the recent flooding to our Washington office.  Additionally, you may send your information to your Hud mailbox
hurricane.mailbox@hud.gov.
...]]> <![CDATA[Section 8 Renewal Policy Guide Page Changes Issued]]> On April 13, 2009, Brian Montgomery, Assistant Secretary for Housing – Federal Housing Commissioner, authorized the release of a new set of page changes to the Section 8 Renewal Policy Guide.  A complete copy of the changes will be posted to the web at:  http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/mfh/mfhsec8.cfm

The changes cover the following:
 
a.   Chapter 4, Option Two Contract Renewals for Other Projects with Current Rents At or Below Comparable Market Rents, has been updated.  The revision includes two major changes:
  • Permits increased distributions to for-profit owners that have or are willing to enter into long term Section 8 contracts.
  • Directs the Owner to use the project’s current debt service when preparing a budget-based rent increase. 
b.   The opening paragraph of Chapter 14, RHS Section 515/8, is revised to clarify that RHS projects are not eligible for a debt restructuring under MAHRA.
 
c.   Attachment 2, Glossary of Terms, has been updated.
 
d.   Four new forms are being added to the Guide.  The four collateral assignment forms have been revised to require signature by HUD rather than by HUD or the PHA CA.  These forms are to be used verbatim, i.e., without any alteration of any kind to the language or form.
 
The forms show that HUD has provided written consent permitting the owner to assign the HAP contract. 
  • Attachment 21, Consent to Assignment of HAP Contract as Security for Financing.
  • Attachment 22, Consent to Assignment of HAP Contract as Security for FNMA Financing.
  • Attachment 23, Consent to Assignment of HAP Contract as Security for FREDDIE MAC Financing.
  • Attachment 24, Consent to Assignment as Security For FNMA Credit Enhancement

 

...]]> <![CDATA[More New Page Changes to the Section 8 Renewal Policy Guide Issued]]> On April 17, 2009, Brian D. Montgomery, Assistant Secretary for Housing-Federal Housing Commissioner, approved a set of new page changes to the Section 8 Renewal Policy Guide.  The page changes include:

  • Section 7-9, Preservation Updates, has been added to Chapter 7.  It discusses shallow rent subsidy and new debt in a budget-based rent increase.
  • Section 16-1.C.2. has been updated to clarify when more than one rent adjustment is permitted.
  • Section 16-2, REMS Reporting, has been removed and the remaining sections of Chapter 16 are renumbered. 
  • The new Section 16-3 contains a clarification concerning the use of the debt service associated with the current financing when computing an OCAF rent adjustment. 
  • Appendix 15-2 has been revised to be an Addendum to the Renewal Contract. 
  • Attachment 1, Acronyms, has been updated. 
  • Attachment 7, Section 8 Renewal Help Desk Contacts, is being removed.  The Department maintains an up-to-date list of Section 8 Renewal Help Desk Contacts on the web at:
http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/mfh/exp/helpdesk.cfm
...]]> <![CDATA[Request for Information -SAVE System]]>  URGENT!!

REQUEST FOR INFORMATION NEEDED TO PROVIDE YOUR PROPERTY WITH ACCESS TO THE
SYSTEMATIC ALIEN VERIFICATION FOR ENTITLEMENTS (SAVE) SYSTEM
 
 
This notice is important for owners and management agents administering assisted properties through the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).  HUD is requesting contact information for one person per HUD assisted property that needs access to the SAVE system. 
 
SAVE is a web-based automated verification system owned by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that consists of immigration status verification information.  Authorized users of HUD’s Enterprise Income Verification (EIV) system who are also authorized to use the SAVE system will be able to access SAVE from EIV later this year. 
 
Owners and management agents must use the SAVE system to verify the validity of citizenship documents provided by applicants or tenants who are noncitizens and who claim eligible immigration status. This is to ensure that HUD’s rental assistance is provided only to eligible noncitizens.  For reference, see Chapter 3, Paragraph 3-12.L of HUD Handbook 4350.3 REV-1, Occupancy Requirements of Multifamily Subsidized Housing Programs. 
 
DHS is streamlining the SAVE database and providing HUD with a one-time opportunity to ensure that all of its assisted properties have access to the SAVE system.  In order to do this, HUD needs the owner or management agent  to designate one person for each HUD assisted property they own or manage who will need to use the SAVE system to verify the citizenship status of applicants or tenants who are noncitizens and who claim eligible immigration status.
 
What you need to do:
 
below for the person designated to have access 
 
2)  Send it by email to: SAVEACCESS@hud.gov
3)  The deadline for submission is May 15, 2009.
 
HUD will compile the information received and forward it to DHS by June 5, 2009, for uploading into the SAVE system.  After the uploading is completed (on or around June 14, 2009), each person that has been uploaded into the SAVE system will receive an email with their User ID and temporary password to access the SAVE system.
 
Already have access to SAVE?
 
Due to the fact that DHS is streamlining the SAVE database, if your property already has access to the SAVE system, you still need to designate one person to have access and complete the information requested above by the established deadline so that this person will receive a new User ID and temporary password.  We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause you.
 
Need more than one person to have access to SAVE?
 
If your property has access to SAVE now and more than one person has access, or if your property does not have access to SAVE currently and you need more than one person to have access, additional people can be provided access through a manual process that will take place at HUD after June 15, 2009.  Further instructions will be forthcoming prior to June 15, 2009.
 
If you have any questions regarding this request you may contact
Kevin.X.Garner@hud.gov, or via telephone at (202) 402-2057.
 

 

 

 

...]]> <![CDATA[HUD MAKES $117 MILLION AVAILABLE TO CLEAN UP DANGEROUS LEAD IN HOUSING]]> The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development today announced that more than $117 million is available to eliminate dangerous lead-based paint hazards from lower income homes and protect young children from lead poisoning. The grants are being offered to States and local governments through HUD's Lead-Based Paint Hazard Control and Lead Hazard Reduction Demonstration Programs.

"There is nothing more important than the health and safety of our children, and these grants are a significant investment in their futures," said HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan. "These grants will support the efforts of state and local governments to clean up lead hazards in order to protect young children and their families from the lasting effects of lead poisoning."

Even though lead-based paint was banned for use in the home in 1978, HUD estimates that approximately 24 million homes still have significant lead-based paint hazards today. Lead-contaminated dust is the primary cause of young children's lead exposure and can lead to a variety of health problems, including reduced IQ, learning disabilities, developmental delays, reduced height, and impaired hearing. At higher levels, lead can damage a child's kidneys and central nervous system and cause anemia, coma, convulsions and even death.

Applicants for this funding may be State, Tribal or local governments. Applications may be downloaded from the Office of Healthy Homes and Lead Hazard Control's Website at www.hud.gov/lead. The application provides instructions, including submitting proposals by Federal Express (FedEx), United Parcel Services (UPS) and overnight Express Mail delivery services. The deadline for receiving grants is 5:00 PM eastern time, July 20, 2009.

This year, HUD is announcing individual funding opportunities for programs as they become available, an action that will speed up the application process for those seeking HUD funding and who would otherwise be required to wait for the publication of HUD's comprehensive funding notice for all its competitive grant programs.

...]]> <![CDATA[DATA RETENTION REQUIREMENTS WILL CHANGE]]> HUD is in the process of finalizing negotiations with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for retention of the National Directory of New Hires (NDNH) employment and income data obtained  from the EIV system.  HHS has agreed to allow retention of the EIV printed reports for the term of tenancy plus three years after termination of tenancy.  With this change, owners and management agents (O/As) will no longer need to worry about destroying the EIV printed reports containing NDNH data in the tenant files when the reports are two years old. This change will be incorporated in a revision to Notice H2008-3, Enterprise Income Verification (EIV) System.

 
 
USE OF EIV TO BECOME MANDATORY
Multifamily Housing Programs Administrators
 
The "Refinement of Income and Rent Determination Requirements in Public and Assisted Housing Programs" Final Rule that was published in the Federal Register on March 27, 2009 (74 FR 13339) makes the use of EIV for Multifamily mandatory, effective September 30, 2009.  This Notice, along with other EIV-related source documents, can be found on the Multifamily Housing Program Requirements and Guidance for Using EIV web page, located at:  http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/mfh/rhiip/eiv/reqnguide.cfm
 
Those owners and management agents (O/As) who do not currently have access to the EIV system should obtain access as soon as possible and become familiar with using the system.  Contract Administrators (CAs) are also encouraged to gain access to and use the system in the performance of Management and Occupancy Reviews (MORs), the purpose of which is to identify and reduce errors in the administration of HUD rental assistance programs, thereby reducing the number and amount of improper payments of HUD subsidies.  Information on applying for access to the EIV system for Multifamily users is available at:  http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/mfh/rhiip/eiv/eivhome.cfm. 
 
Thank you for your interest in HUD's EIV System and for assisting the Department to further reduce income and rent determination errors through continued and regular use of the system.
...]]> <![CDATA[Translations of HUD Model Leases and Sample Documents ]]> As part of its effort to improve access to services by persons with limited English proficiency (LEP), HUD has had the HUD model leases translated into several languages. The leases translated are:

  • Model Lease for Subsidized Programs (HUD-90105-A)
  • Model Lease for Section 202/8 or Section 202 PAC (HUD-90105-B)
  • Model Lease for Section 202 PRAC (HUD-90105-C)
  • Model Lease for Section 811 PRAC (HUD-90105-D)
 
The leases, as well as the documents listed below, have been translated into the following languages:  Arabic, Armenian, Chinese (Traditional), Farsi, French (Canadian), Khmer (Cambodian), Korean, Portuguese (Brazil), Russian, Spanish, Tagalog, and Vietnamese.
 
http://www.hud.gov/offices/adm/hudclips/forms/hud9.cfm.  Currently the lease translations are contained in a zip file from which the user can choose the appropriate translation.  The link will soon be converted to a dropdown so that users who do not have the ability to use the zip directory can more easily access the lease documents. Users can access these translated leases by going to the RHIIP website http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/mfh/rhiip/mfhrhiip.cfm and clicking on the link “HUD Model Lease forms (HUD-90105-a through 90105-d including translated formats)”  or by going to HUDCLIPS at
 
The Department also had the following documents translated and is in the process of posting them.  The link to these documents will be provided when the posting is completed.
 
  1. Document Package for Applicant’s/Tenant’s Consent to the Release of Information (HUD 9887/A, Form HUD 9887, and Relevant Verifications)
  2. **Sample** Annual Recertification Initial Notice (HUD Handbook 4350.3, Exhibit 7-1)
  3. **Sample** Annual Recertification First Reminder Notice (HUD Handbook 4350.3, Exhibit 7-2)
  4. **Sample** Annual Recertification Second Reminder Notice (HUD Handbook 4350.3, Exhibit 7-3)
  5. **Sample** Annual Recertification Third Reminder Notice / Notice of Termination (HUD Handbook 4350.3, Exhibit 7-4)
  6. **Sample** Model Form of Notification of Rent Increase Resulting from Recertification Processing (HUD Handbook 4350.3, Exhibit 7-6)
  7. **Sample** Interim Adjustment Initial Notice (HUD Handbook 4350.3, Exhibit 7-7)
  8. **Sample** Interim Adjustment Termination of Assistance(HUD Handbook 4350.3, Exhibit 7-8)
...]]> <![CDATA[4350.1 Ch. 6 Implementation Delay]]> The implementation of the HUD 4350.1 Ch. 6 has been delayed until September 29, 2009 to allow HUD staff time to review and consider all comments and questions.

HUD still encourages Owners and Agents as well as other Industry Partners to comment on the revised guidance. Please send all comments and questions  via e-mail to PPSDCommunications@hud.gov by August 20, 2009. Please ensure that you put Chapter 6, 4350.1 in the subject line.

...]]> <![CDATA[Exclusion of the Social Security's One-Time Economic Recovery Payments ]]> Housing Notice 09-07 issued July 27, 2009   provides for the exclusion of the Social Security’s One-Time Economic Recovery Payments received by applicants for assisted housing and by tenants participating in HUD’s rental assistance programs from all purposes of determining eligibility and rent.  The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, Pub. L. No. 111-5, 123 Stat. 115, requires this exclusion and the payments are an exclusion under 24 CFR 5.609(c)(9) of HUD’s regulation.

...]]> <![CDATA[Delay in the Implementation of the Refinement of Income and Rent Determination Final Rule]]>  Effective Date Delayed to January 31, 2010

 
Refinement of Income and Rent Determination Requirements
in Public and Assisted Housing Programs, Final Rule
 
A delay in the effective date of the Refinement of Income and Rent Determination Requirements in Public and Assisted Housing Programs, Final Rule was published in the Federal Register today, August 28, 2009.  The rule, scheduled to be effective on September 30, 2009, will become effective on January 31, 2010.  The publication of this delay in the effective date is located at http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/pdf/E9-20879.pdf.
 
As a reminder, the provisions published in the January 27, 2009, final rule must not be implemented prior to the effective date of the final rule.
...]]> <![CDATA[Housing Notice H 2009-13, Supplemental Information to Application for Assistance ]]> Housing Notice H 2009-13, Supplemental Information to Application for Assistance Regarding Identification of Family Member, Friend or Other Person or Organization Supportive of a Tenant for Occupancy in HUD Assisted Housing, was issued on September 15, 2009.  The Notice also transmits form HUD-92006, Supplement to Application for Federally Assisted Housing. 

 
The Notice provides guidance on implementation of the requirements of Section 644 of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1992 (Section 644).  Section 644 requires that owners and management agents (O/As) must provide applicants as part of their application for housing, the option to include information on an individual or organization that the O/A may contact to assist in providing any delivery of services or special care to applicants who become tenants and to assist with resolving any tenancy issues arising during tenancy. 
 
In order to ensure that O/As comply with this requirement, HUD has provided a standard form for use in gathering the information from applicants.  Completion of the form is optional on the part of the applicant.  O/As must begin including form HUD-92006 as part of their application package by no later than 90 days from the date the Notice was issued, September 15, 2009.  Section 644 requires that O/As keep the contact information confidential and can only release the information for the stated statutory purpose:  To assist the O/A in providing services or special care for such tenants, and in resolving issues that may arise during the tenancy of such tenants.
 
Notice H 2009-13 is posted at:  http://www.hud.gov/offices/adm/hudclips/notices/hsg/
 
Form HUD-92006 is posted at:  http://www.hud.gov/offices/adm/hudclips/forms/

 

 
...]]> <![CDATA[ARRA Reporting Requirements for Section 8 HAP Payments Received]]> Please be advised that the contracts listed in the attached PDF file have received American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds to cover a portion of its FY 2009 funding needs.  Because of this, the Owner now has reporting requirements under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA).  This letter, along with the attached documents, is intended to alert you to these reporting requirements and provide help in complying with these requirements.  We request that you review the Florida Section 8 ARRA Funded Contracts if you have a Section 8 Rental Assistance Contract; to determine if your project was funded with ARRA funding, as the amendments were processed electronically to most contracts, without specific notification of the type of funding being provided.

 Although there are two different sets of reporting requirements under ARRA, Section 8 projects are only covered by Section 1512—which requires recipients to report their project plan, the number of jobs created/retained, salaries of their highest paid employees, etc.  OMB has created a government-wide reporting system for this purpose.  Recipients should be registering now—and will need to fill out reports during October 1-10.  The web site for registering and learning more about the Section 1512 requirements is:
  https://www.federalreporting.gov/federalreporting/home.do
 
 In order to register under the OMB system, recipients must obtain a DUNS number from Dun & Bradstreet and also register with the Central Contractor Registration (CCR).  The web sites for these are:
 
 http://fedgov.dnb.com/webform           Dunn & Bradstreet
http://www.govtips.biz/ccr.htm              Central Contractor Registration
 
 Please note the reports must be filed between October 1 through 10, 2009
 
http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/mfh/sec8reportrecact.cfm Multifamily Housing Web Page regarding Section8 Reporting Requirements
 
 If there are any questions, please contact your local HUD field office representative at:  Jacksonville 904-232-1777, Tampa 813-228-2026, or Miami 305-520-5000
...]]> <![CDATA[No Social Security Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2010]]> With consumer prices down over the past year, monthly Social Security and Supplemental Security Income benefits for more than 57 million Americans will not automatically increase in 2010.  This will be the first year without an automatic Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) since they went into effect in 1975.

“Social Security is doing its job helping Americans maintain their standard of living,” Michael J. Astrue, Commissioner of Social Security said.  “Last year when consumer prices spiked, largely as a result of higher gas prices, beneficiaries received a 5.8 percent COLA, the largest increase since 1982.  This year, in light of the human need, we need to support President Obama’s call for us to make another $250 recovery payment for 57 million Americans.”
The Social Security Act provides that Social Security and Supplemental Security Income benefits increase automatically each year if there is an increase in the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) from the third quarter of the last year to the third quarter of the current year.  This year there was no increase in the CPI-W from the third quarter of 2008 to the third quarter of 2009.  In addition, because there was no increase in the CPI-W this year, under the law the starting point for determinations regarding a possible 2011 COLA will remain the third quarter of 2008.

Some other changes that would normally take effect in January 2010 based on the increase in average wages also will not take effect, even though average wages did increase.  Since there is no COLA, the statute prohibits an increase in the maximum amount of earnings subject to the Social Security tax as well as the retirement earnings test exempt amounts.  These amounts will remain unchanged in 2010.  The attached fact sheet provides more information on 2010 Social Security changes.

Information about Medicare changes for 2010, when available, will be found at www.Medicare.gov.  The Department of Health and Human Services has not yet announced if there will be any Medicare premium changes for 2010.  Should there be an increase in the Medicare Part B premium, the law contains a “hold harmless” provision that protects about 93 percent of Social Security beneficiaries from paying a higher Part B premium, in order to avoid reducing their net Social Security benefit.  Those not protected include higher income beneficiaries subject to an income-adjusted Part B premium and beneficiaries newly entitled to Part B in 2010.  On September 24th, the House passed legislation by 406-18 that would, on a fully paid-for basis, prevent abnormally large premium increases.  The President is calling on the Senate to enact this legislation before it becomes too late for the Social Security Administration to update its computer systems to implement this needed change.

For additional information about the 2010 COLA, go to www.socialsecurity.gov/cola.

...]]> <![CDATA[Good News! Owners of Project Based Section 8 Properties are Exempt from Reporting HAP Money Received]]> The Office of Management and Budget has granted an exemption for project-based Section 8 Housing Assistance Payments (HAP) funding to the reporting requirements under the Recovery Act--see explanation below. 

HUD is currently preparing a letter which  will ask each HUD office to send to the impacted owners.  The letter should be coming to you by early next week.

 
OMB justification for exemption from Section 1512 of ARRA:The Project-based Rental Assistance (PBRA) program provides rental assistance to low-income tenants in nearly 1.3 million housing units.  Residents generally pay 30 percent of their income toward rent and HUD pays the balance of rent and utilities to private owners/landlords of multifamily rental properties. The PBRA program is tantamount to individual benefit programs, which provide assistance to individuals to meet or help meet particular needs, such as paying for medical care, food, or college tuition.  In the PBRA program, the benefit provided is quality, safe, and affordable housing and the beneficiaries are low-income families.  Although Federal payments are made directly to owners/landlords, those payments are not intended for the benefit of the owners/landlords.  They are merely the mechanism for delivering the benefit to low-income families.  As with other individual benefit programs, families must meet certain eligibility criteria to qualify for assistance.  For example, they must be at or below 80 percent of area median income. 

Because the PBRA program is tantamount to an individual benefits program, and because 31 U.S.C. 7501(a) excludes from the term “Federal financial assistance” amounts received as reimbursement for services rendered to individuals in accordance with guidance issued by the Director, the program is properly excluded from 1512 reporting.

...]]> <![CDATA[Florida 2010 OCAF Factor Published]]> The 2010 OCAF Factor was published in the Federal Register on November 12, 2009. The Florida Factor for 2010 is 1.8%. This affects all contracts in which the rent effective date is 2/11/2010 and later.

...]]> <![CDATA[EIV to become Mandatory on January 31, 2010]]> Use of the EIV system for Multifamily Housing Program users will become mandatory on January 31, 2010, the effective date of the "Refinement of Income and Rent Determination Requirements in Public and Assisted Housing Programs - Final Rule” published in the Federal Register on January 27, 2009 (FR-4998-F-02).  
 
In order to meet the deadline for using EIV and to avoid penalties relating to non-compliance with the Final Rule, owners and management agents who do not have access to EIV must act now by taking the steps outlined below.
 
Step 1:  Determine EIV Role
 
When applying for initial EIV access rights, applicants must first decide what their role will be in EIV; whether they will be an EIV Coordinator (HSC) or an EIV User (HSU), as the application process is different depending on their role.  An EIV Coordinator has the same functionality in EIV as an EIV User but also has the administrative functions of assigning access rights to EIV Users and recertifying their EIV Users on a biannual basis.
 
Step 2:  Application Process for Coordinators 
 
When applying for EIV access rights as an EIV Coordinator (HSC), an applicant must:
 
1. Be a WASS Coordinator and have an active WASS ID (M-ID) that was assigned to them by HUD, based on owner authorization;
2. Have a written owner authorization (letter of approval) to access EIV on the owner’s behalf for their property(ies);
3. Complete and submit a hardcopy Coordinator Access Authorization Form (CAAF) to HUD’s Multifamily Helpdesk by fax at 202-401-7984 or by email at MF_eiv@hud.gov.  You need only fax pages 1, 2, and 5 of the CAAF.   Do not fax the owner letters of approval with your request.  Note, only one CAAF needs to be submitted per Coordinator.  A separate CAAF should not be submitted for each property.  The deadline for submission in order to have access to EIV by January 31, 2010, is December 15, 2009;
4. Complete property assignments in EIV after receiving an approval  email from the Helpdesk; and
5. Complete the EIV on-line certification process by January 15, 2010.
 
Step 3:  Application Process for EIV Users
 
Users must have an active WASS ID (M-ID)  in order to apply for access authorization rights to EIV.  To apply for EIV access, Users will need to complete the User Access Authorization Form (UAAF) in hardcopy and submit it to their assigned EIV Coordinator for approval.  The EIV Coordinator can approve and certify the EIV User and make the appropriate property assignments.  UAAFs are not to be faxed to the Multifamily Helpdesk.
 
Detailed instructions for the application process which include how to apply for a WASS ID, upgrade to a WASS Coordinator role (necessary if applying as a Coordinator) and application forms for EIV Coordinators and EIV Users are located at: http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/mfh/rhiip/eiv/applyforeivaccess.pdf
 
If you have any questions related to getting access to EIV, you may contact Kevin Garner on 202-402-2057 or Zeljko Jovanovic on 202-402-3157.

...]]> <![CDATA[Resident Rights and Responsibilities]]> Please help HUD further their goal of tenant participation by ensuring that the “Resident Rights and Responsibilities” brochure is given to each Head of Household each year during their Annual recertification.

This brochure is available in thirteen different languages and can be found at http://www.hud.gov/offices/fheo/promotingfh/lep.cfm#Booklets You can also order this brochure free of charge by contacting the Clearinghouse at 1-800-685-8470.

Download Document here

In order to provide easier access to the Resident’s Rights and Responsibilities brochures a link to the English version was placed on the FHEO site along with the other 13 translated editions of the document.  Users can go to http://www.hud.gov/offices/fheo/promotingfh/lep.cfm, scroll down to “Resident’s Rights and Responsibilities Brochure.”  Those interested in finding the English version on the HUD’s Multifamily website can still find it located at http://www.hud.gov/groups/tenants.cfm  Also, please remember that the Department has provided copies of the English document and the translations available from the Multifamily Housing Clearinghouse.  The Clearinghouse can be reached by calling 1-800-685-8470. 

...]]> <![CDATA[EIV Becomes Mandatory on 1/31/2010]]> Enterprise Income Verification (EIV) Mandatory

Effective January 31, 2010
 
Mandatory use of HUD's Multifamily Enterprise Income Verification (EIV) system is just around the corner (effective January 31, 2010. It is very important for Owners and Management Agents to understand that obtaining EIV access (especially for participants with no previous experience using HUD's Secure Systems) is a multi-step process that can be lengthy and can potentially impact your ability to achieve EIV compliance by the stated deadline.
 
The first step is to ensure that at least one person in your organization who will access EIV (or coordinate access for others) has a Secure Systems ID.
 
(Each person who will eventually use EIV, or coordinate its use for others,
will also have to obtain their own, individual Secure Systems ID. 
Secure Systems user IDs and passwords are not transferable, and the use of one person's user ID or password/login information by another person is strictly prohibited.)
 
To obtain a Secure Systems user ID, please see the Registration Instructions.  One of the first steps is deciding whether you should register as a Coordinator or User.  You may also find it helpful to consult the Coordinator's or User's quick reference manual.  (For complete instructions, see the Secure Connection and Secure Systems User's Manual.)  To begin the online registration process, go to Secure Systems - Multifamily Coordinator & User Registration.
 
The Florida CA ID is FL800
 
This process includes written access codes being mailed to the Owner of record of the particular business entity, so it is very important that the business entity be registered with HUD's Business Partner Registration and that the address of record for the business entity be accurate and deliverable, because the Owner, once they receive the written access codes in the mail, must then give them to the pending Coordinator or User to activate their access online.
 
(If you are unsure whether your business entity is registered and if the address of record is accurate, please contact your assigned HUD Project Manager.)
 
Once you have obtained access as a Secure Systems Coordinator or User for a particular business entity (i.e. a Multifamily housing project ownership entity), you must then apply to become an EIV Coordinator and/or User for that housing project (i.e. by project or housing assistance contract number).
 
Please see EIV Application and Online Access for Multifamily Housing Programs - additional documentation and submission requirements apply.
 
Also be aware that a Security Awareness Training Questionnaire must be completed by each person who will access EIV data online, and HUD staff or Contract Administrators who conduct management and occupancy reviews will audit your EIV registration and security records to ensure its completion.
 
You must also update your tenant selection plan to incorporate EIV operating and security procedures (see HUD Housing Notice H 09-20 for further details).
 
A tremendous amount of information must be assimilated regarding the effective use of EIV (including access and security procedures).  For more information, please see HUD's Enterprise Income Verification (EIV) System for Multifamily Housing Program Users website and the class posted at http://portal.hud.gov/portal/page/portal/HUD/webcasts/archives/multifamily 
 

DON'T WAIT - ACT NOW!

...]]> <![CDATA[HUD Housing Notice 10-02 - Enterprise Income Verification (EIV) & You Brochure ]]>  

 Housing Notice 10-02, was posted on HUDclips yesterday. This notice states that owners, “using the EIV system must provide each tenant household with the EIV & You brochure at the time of annual recertification along with a copy of the HUD Fact Sheet  “How Your Rent is Determined”.  O/As must also provide applicant households who have been selected from the waiting list for screening and final application processing with a copy of the EIV & You brochure.  The brochure will be translated into thirteen languages for distribution to non-English speaking households.”

 You can find the notice by following this link: portal.hud.gov/portal/page/portal/HUD/program_offices/administration/hudclips/notices/hsg/files/10-02hsgn.doc

...]]> <![CDATA[2010 IRS Standard Mileage Rates]]> The Internal Revenue Service has published the 2010 standard mileage rates used to calculate the deductible costs of operating an automobile for business, charitable, medical or moving purposes.  These mileage rates are mentioned in Exhibit 5-3 of HUD Handbook 4350.3, REV-1 Occupancy Requirements of Subsidized Multifamily Housing Programsto be used when calculating a medical expense due to transportation to/from treatment and lodging.

 
Beginning on January 1, 2010, the standard mileage rates for the use of a car (also vans, pickups or panel trucks) will be:
 
·         50 cents per mile for business driven
·         16.5 cents per mile driven for medical or moving purposes
·         14 cents per mile driven in service of charitable organizations
 
The new rates for business, medical and moving purposes are slightly lower than last year’s. The mileage rates for 2010 reflect generally lower transportation costs compared to a year ago.
 
For more information, please go to the IRS website at www.irs.gov.
...]]> <![CDATA[ 2010 Statewide Training schedule]]> The North Tampa Housing Development Corporation is pleased to announce the 2010 Statewide Training schedule. (download HERE ~ PDF Format)

In order to attend, you must RSVP through www.nthdc.org. If you have any topics you wish to have included in any of the presentations, please send your request using this link.

Regards,

NTHDC Staff

...]]> <![CDATA[2010 Annual Adjustment Factors]]> The 2010 Annual Adjustment Factors (AAF’s) were posted in the Federal Register on Wednesday February 10, 2010.  
 
For all applicable rent adjustments requesting an AAF effective February 10, 2010 or after the new rates would apply.
 
You may view or download the new 2010 tables by clicking on the link below:
 
2010 AAF Factors
...]]> <![CDATA[Business Partner Registration - APPS System]]> HUD Project Managers no longer have the ability to change or correct names or addresses contained in the HUD database. Therefore it is necessary that all Owners and Agents take a few moments to log on to APPS and ensure that their information contained in the system is current. Please log in to the Business Partner Registration website and update your information.

https://hudapps1.hud.gov/apps/part_reg/apps040.cfm

 

 

...]]> <![CDATA[Important Information for SAVE Users]]> Important Information for SAVE Users! 

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has streamlined the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) database.  Beginning on May 1, 2010, you must have an updated ID and password to access the SAVE system
 
UNLESS
 
you already received a User ID and temporary Password since June 2009 from HUD.  If so, no further action on your part is required.
 
Please DO NOT call or email HUD to verify that your ID and password are okay.
 
SAVE is a web-based automated verification system owned by DHS that consists of immigration status verification information.  Authorized users of HUD’s Enterprise Income Verification (EIV) system who are also authorized to use the SAVE system are now able to access SAVE from EIV.  
 
Owners and management agents must use the SAVE system to verify the validity of citizenship documents provided by applicants or tenants who are noncitizens and who claim eligible immigration status. This is to ensure that HUD’s rental assistance is provided only to eligible noncitizens.  For reference, see Chapter 3, Paragraph 3-12.L of HUD Handbook 4350.3 REV-1, Occupancy Requirements of Multifamily Subsidized Housing Programs. 
 
Last year, DHS streamlined the SAVE database and provided HUD with a one-time opportunity to ensure that one person at each of its assisted properties has access to the SAVE system.  Any additional or new staff as well as staff that did not respond to the data upload request must respond now if they did not receive a User ID or temporary Password since June 2009, or starting on May 1, 2010, they will not be able to access the SAVE system. 
 
What you must do to gain access!
 
If you do not have access to SAVE or have access and did NOT receive a new User ID and temporary Password since June 2009, please:
 
1)  Send property, name, address, fax and phone number by email to: Kevin.X.Garner@hud.gov
2)  The deadline for submission is April 15, 2010.
 
Already have access to SAVE?
 
As long as the person who has current access to SAVE was given an ID and temporary Password since June 2009, nothing else needs to be done. If not, the information requested above, must be sent in by April 15, 2010, in order to receive a new User ID and temporary Password by April 30, 2010. 
 
Need more than one person to have access to SAVE?
 
Follow the instructions under “What you must do to gain access!” above.
...]]> <![CDATA[Final Rule Webcast Postponed]]> Final Rule Webcast to be Held on April 14, 2010

 
The instructional webcast on the Refinement of Income and Rent Determination Requirements in Public and Assisted Housing Programs; Final Rule making the Enterprise Income Verification (EIV) system mandatory which was tentatively scheduled for March 31, 2010, has been postponed.  The new date for this webcast is April 14, 2010, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM EST.  The notice which provides guidance on this final rule is still in the clearance process thus causing the postponement. 
 
February 25, 2010 EIV Q&A Webcast Posted
 
The Enterprise Income Verification (EIV) 8.1.2/9.0 Question and Answer webcast that took place on February 25, 2010, has been posted to HUD’s archived webcasts page at http://portal.hud.gov/portal/page/portal/HUD/webcasts/archives.  Owners and management agents (O/As), contract administrators, and HUD staff are invited to view this webcast at their convenience.  The slides from this webcast will not be posted but the questions on the slides will be included in a questions and answers document listing all of the questions submitted with their answers.  A future RHIIP Listserv message will be sent when this document is available.
...]]> <![CDATA[April 14, 2010 Final Rule Webcast]]> The Refinement of Income and Rent Determination Requirements in Public and Assisted Housing Programs:  Implementation of the Enterprise Income Verification System – Amendments; Final Rule webcast is scheduled for April 14, 2010, at 1:00 PM EST (DST).  This webcast will include a question and answer session.  Owners and agents, contract administrators and HUD staff are invited to submit their questions regarding the Final Rule prior to the webcast.  As many questions as possible will be addressed during the webcast.  Any questions not addressed during the webcast will be addressed either by email or in a questions and answers document that will be posted after the webcast on the EIV website at http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/mfh/rhiip/eiv/eivhome.cfm.  

 
Questions should be sent via email to mf_eiv_comments@hud.gov and beidentified by “Questions for Final Rule Webcast” in the subject line.  The webcast will be archived and available for viewing through HUD’s webcasts page at http://www.hud.gov/webcasts/index.cfm.
...]]> <![CDATA[Reminder of Procedures in the Event of a Disaster ]]> As we begin our storm season, we wanted to once again provide you with the tools that have been put in place to make the process go smoother, should a disaster event occur that affects your residents and/or property.   

First, there is a website that has been established that will be updated as the need arises with information and guidance in the event of a disaster.  The website is Multifamily Housing Guidance for Disaster Recovery http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/mfh/disasterguide.cfm.
 
Secondly, as in the past, the following reporting procedures have been put in place.  Owners and/or Management Agents should notify their local HUD Office immediately whenever there is physical damage to a property, interior or exterior, as a result of fire, flood, wind, severe cold, or other natural disaster.  
 
The attached "Damage Report" should be faxed or emailed to the assigned Project Manager within 24 hours of the damage.  Fax numbers are listed below. Should you wish to email, the address is hurricane.mailbox@hud.gov   Updated reports should be submitted as additional information concerning the level/amount of damage sustained is received.  In addition, while the Department is not a payee on a loss draft for an insured property, we still must be notified of the event and any damage sustained to the property in accordance with the above.  Also attached please find a damage report form and the instruction for processing loss claims and insurance settlements.   Should you have questions and/or concerns, please contact your Project Manager.  
 
Fax Numbers:
Jacksonville Field Office Fax  904-232-1532  Tampa Field Office Fax # 813-228-2844      
Miami Program Center Fax #  305-536-4789
...]]> <![CDATA[EIV System Remains Unavailable]]> EIV Update – System Again Unavailable 

The link for the EIV system has been deactivated due to the inaccuracy of the displayed data.  As indicated in Listserv Posting #224, please continue to perform third party verifications as done previous to the implementation of EIV.  Continue to document the tenant files that have been affected by this outage.   Contract Administrators are instructed not to issue MOR Findings due to an O/A not using EIV until such time when the system becomes fully functional.
...]]> <![CDATA[4350.1 Chapter 9 Updated]]> HUD has revised Chapter 9 to the 4350.1. Click here to access the chapter: Monitoring of Civil Rights Requirements.

...]]> <![CDATA[2nd Annual NTHDC Owner/Agent State Conference to be held Tuesday, July 20, 2010]]> NTHDC is hosting its 2nd annual Owner/Agent Conference on Tuesday, July 20, 2010 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel located at 5303 W. Kennedy Blvd. Tampa, FL 33609. Seating is limited, however seats are available.

 
To R.S.V.P for this event, please register at www.nthdc.org.
 
Session topics include: Waiting List and Application Management, Tenant Files and the MOR, Contract Renewals, Rent Adjustments, and Budget Based Rent Increases, Evictions, The EIV System, Safe Communities, and Vouchering Tips and the TRACS System.
 
HUD will also be hosting a PRAC Budget Training Monday, July 19, 2010 at the Crowne Plaza Hotelfrom 9:00am –2:00 pm. To R.S.V.P please contact Chris Griffin at 904-208-6150 or email 
Casantry.l.griffin@hud.gov . Space is limited so make your reservations early.
 
 
 
 
...]]> <![CDATA[HUD Issues Guidance on LGBT Housing Discrimination Complaints]]> WASHINGTON- The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) today announced a new policy that provides lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) individuals and families with further assistance when facing housing discrimination. The new guidance treats gender identity discrimination most often faced by transgender persons as gender discrimination under the Fair Housing Act, and instructs HUD staff to inform individuals filing complaints about state and local agencies that have LGBT-inclusive discrimination laws. HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan announced the new guidance at HUD's LGBT Pride Month Celebration.

"Our job to prevent and combat housing discrimination is not complete without addressing 21st Century issues," stated John Trasviña, Assistant Secretary for Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity. "Our fair housing staff will work with state and local civil rights agencies to investigate and refer discrimination cases and work to combat all aspects of gender discrimination."

The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in rental, sales and lending on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, gender, disability and familial status. Approximately 20 states, and the District of Columbia, and over 60 cities, towns and counties across the nation have additional protections that specifically prohibit such discrimination against LGBT individuals. Under the guidance announced today, HUD will, as appropriate, retain its jurisdiction over complaints filed by LGBT individuals or families but also jointly investigate or refer matters to those state, district and local governments with other legal protections.

For example, if a man alleges that he is being evicted because he is gay and his landlord believes he will infect other tenants with HIV, then the allegation of discrimination may be jurisdictional under the Fair Housing Act based on disability because the man is regarded as having a disability, HIV/AIDS. Similarly, if a female prospective tenant is alleging discrimination by a landlord because she wears masculine clothes and engages in other physical expressions that are stereotypically male, then the allegations may be jurisdictional under the Act as discrimination based on gender.

Last October, HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan announced a series of measures to ensure that the agency's core housing programs are open to all, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Earlier this month, HUD announced that it will require grant applicants seeking HUD funding to comply with state and local anti-discrimination laws that protect LGBT individuals. In addition, HUD intends to propose new regulations that will clarify that the term "family" as used to describe eligible beneficiaries of HUD's programs include otherwise eligible LGBT individuals and couples. The Department's intent to propose new regulations will clarify family status to ensure its core housing programs are available to all families, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) will also instruct its lending community that FHA-insured mortgage loans must be based on the credit-worthiness of borrowers and not on unrelated factors or characteristics such as sexual orientation or gender identity. Finally, HUD will commission the first-ever national study of discrimination against members of the LGBT community in the rental and sale of housing. The Department is currently seeking online public comment from interested parties in how it might design this new study.

...]]> <![CDATA[HUD Housing Notice 10-10 - Revised EIV Notice ]]>

 

Housing Notice H10-10, Enterprise Income Verification (EIV) System, has been signed and posted to HUDCLIPS and is located HERE.  This Notice revises Housing’s previous

EIV Notice H09-20.
 
Questions regarding the content of this Notice can be sent to MF_EIV_Comments@hud.gov.  

 

...]]> <![CDATA[The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 Webcasts ]]> The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act) was signed into law by President Obama on February 17th, 2009. It is an unprecedented effort to jumpstart our economy, create or save millions of jobs, and put a down payment on addressing long-neglected challenges so our country can thrive in the 21st century.
The Act includes $13.61 billion for projects and programs administered by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, nearly 75 percent of which was allocated to state and local recipients on February 25, 2009 - only eight days after President Obama signed the Act into law. Recovery Act investments in HUD programs will be not just swift, but also effective: they will generate tens of thousands of jobs, modernize homes to make them energy efficient, and help the families and communities hardest hit by the economic crisis. The remaining 25 percent of funds will be awarded via competition in the coming months.
Please use this on-line registration system to select the webcast(s) of interest to you.  Additionally, should you have questions please know that you can "click" on the title of the webcast and submit your question at any time.
Schedule of Upcoming Webcasts
Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity: May 12, 2009 - 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Recipients and sub recipients of American Recovery and Reinvestment Act funds or other Federal financial assistance must comply with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Fair Housing Act of 1968, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, and a variety of program-specific statutes with nondiscrimination requirements.  This one-hour training session will provide HUD staff and recipients with a basic understanding of the laws and civil rights related program requirements that are associated with HUD programs.  The training will also provide samples how HUD recipients could meet the laws for non-discrimination and to affirmatively further fair housing.
Assisted Housing Green Retrofit: May 13, 2009 - 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
The Recovery Act includes $250 million for grants and loans to be used for energy and green retrofits of eligible multifamily properties with project-based assistance, including projects under Sections 8, 202, and 811.  This webcast will cover the implementing Notice, including property eligibility, application process and requirements, program overview, and policies and procedures.  There will be time for questions from the audience via email or phone.
Public Housing Capital Fund: May 14, 2009 - 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
This webcast will provide and overview of both the formula and competitive grants associated with the AARA.  In addition, specific information concerning the application and scoring process for the competitive grants will be delineated.
Neighborhood Stabilization Program 2: May 14, 2009 - 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
This webcast will provide details with regard to the $2 billion in NSP 2 funding provided under the Recovery Act. NSP 2 is a competitive program open to states, local government and non-profits organizations, all of which may partner with for-profit entities in developing their proposal. There will be two separate competitions, one for $50 million addressing technical assistance and capacity building to support NSP 1 and NSP grantees and a second competition for $1.93 billion to fund NSP efforts at the state, regional and local levels.
Office of Healthy Homes and Lead Hazard Control: May 14, 2009 - 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM
This webcast will focus on the performance and reporting requirements for Lead-Based Paint Hazard Control, Lead Hazard Reduction Demonstration, Healthy Homes Demonstration, and Healthy Homes Technical Studies grantees funded under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009.

http://www.hud.gov/emarc/ 

...]]> <![CDATA[HUD SECRETARY ANNOUNCES DISASTER ASSISTANCE FOR FLORIDA STORM VICTIMS]]> Foreclosure protection offered to displaced families in Volusia County

WASHINGTON - U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary Shaun Donovan today announced HUD will speed federal disaster assistance to storm-ravaged Volusia County in Florida and provide support to homeowners and low-income renters forced from their homes following severe storms, flooding, straight-line winds, and tornadoes last week.

Yesterday, President Obama issued a disaster declaration in Volusia County allowing the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to extend disaster assistance through its Individual Assistance Program to families. The President's declaration also allows HUD to offer foreclosure relief and other assistance to certain families living in the county.

This presidential declaration triggers a variety of federal assistance including grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster.

"Families who may have been forced from their homes need to know that help is available to begin the rebuilding process," said Donovan. "Whether it's foreclosure relief for FHA-insured families or helping these counties to recover, HUD stands ready to help in any way we can."

HUD is:  

  * Offering the State of Florida the ability to re-allocate existing federal resources toward disaster relief - HUD's Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME programs give the State the flexibility to redirect millions of dollars to address critical needs, including housing and services for flood victims. HUD is currently contacting State and local officials to explore streamlining the Department's CDBG and HOME programs in order to expedite the repair and replacement of damaged housing;
    * Granting immediate foreclosure relief - HUD granted a 90-day moratorium on foreclosures and forbearance on foreclosures of Federal Housing Administration (FHA)-insured home mortgages;
    * Making mortgage insurance available - HUD's Section 203(h) program provides FHA insurance to disaster victims who have lost their homes and are facing the daunting task of rebuilding or buying another home. Borrowers from participating FHA-approved lenders are eligible for 100 percent financing, including closing costs;
    * Making insurance available for both mortgages and home rehabilitation - HUD's Section 203(k) loan program enables those who have lost their homes to finance the purchase or refinance of a house along with its repair through a single mortgage. It also allows homeowners who have damaged houses to finance the rehabilitation of their existing single-family home; and
    * Offering Section 108 loan guarantee assistance - HUD will offer state and local governments federally guaranteed loans for housing rehabilitation, economic development and repair of public infrastructure. For more information about these and other HUD programs designed to assist disaster victims, visit HUD's website.

...]]> <![CDATA[Refinement of Income and Rent Determination Requirements]]> Reminder to Owners and Management Agents:

The Refinement of Income and Rent Determination Requirements in Public and Assisted Housing Final Rule CANNOT be implemented prior to the current effective date of September 30, 2009.  Also, existing tenants and applicants are encouraged to start the process of applying for a Social Security Number (SSN) if they do not already have them.  The majority of current tenants without SSNs are under the age of six. 

http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2009/pdf/E9-1248.pdf

 

...]]> <![CDATA[Extension of time frames to file Annual Financial Statements]]> Extension of time frames to file Annual Financial Statements - FYE 12/21/2009

Due to system performance problems, many MF property owners have not been able to submit their financial statements due March 30, 2010 (for owners with a fiscal year end = 12/31).  The Office of Asset Management has authorized REAC to implement a blanket 30 day extension for fiscal year end 12/31/2009 only.   Owners/auditors do not have to request an extension in FASS; the extension will be automatically implemented.  The new FASS due date is 04/30/2010.  This also means that owners who submit on or before 4/30/2010 will not be referred to the DEC.
 
Please contact your HUD Project Manager if you have any questions.
...]]> <![CDATA[Final Rule Notice H10-08]]> Final Rule Notice Posted to HUDCLIPS

 
Housing Notice H10 – 08, Implementation of Refinement of Income and Rent Determination Requirements in Public and Assisted Housing Programs: Implementation of the Enterprise Income Verification System - Amendments; Final Rule, has been signed and posted to HUDCLIPS.  This Notice is located at this link .
...]]> <![CDATA[Use of EIV Must be Resumed Immediately]]> Please be advised that Multifamily Program users must resume use of EIV in its entirety effective immediately.  All Income Summary Reports are available to meet requirements for EIV use as defined by the Final Rule effective January 31, 2010.

 
At this time, the Income Detail Reports remain unavailable.  Users will experience an error message should they attempt to access these reports.  These reports are not necessary to complete tenant third party income verifications as the Income Summary Reports by individual will provide the tenant income data. 
 
Please note, users may receive a “Closed Connection” message when they attempt to login to EIV during peak periods due to limited system resources.  Should this occur, users should wait a few moments and attempt to login again.  Issues with the Detail Reports and connectivity should be resolved no later than September 2010.
...]]> <![CDATA[Tenant Participation in Multifamily Housing Projects]]> On June 18, 2010 HUD issued a memorandum from Deputy Assistant Secretary Carol Galante regarding tenant participation in certain assisted and subsidized properties.  The memorandum covers tenant’s right to organize, legitimate organizations, protected activities, and enforcement. 

http://www.nthdc.org/media/Tenant_Participation_Memo_Carol_Galante.pdf

...]]> <![CDATA[Progress Energy Provides Energy Efficiency Services to Multifamily Owner/Agents ]]> In an effort to increase energy efficiency in multifamily housing projects, many utility companies offer free inspection services, and rebates and/or incentives to replace less efficient products with products that can lower energy bills and make residential living space more comfortable.   HUD strongly encourages owners and management agents to contact their local utility company to determine what services are available.  Some upgrades might be covered expenses under HUD’s new Green Retrofit Program (HUD Notice 09-02), and some may be eligible Reserve for Replacement items.  

In the first of what HUD hopes will become an on-going source of information on specific energy resources available in the State of Florida, HUD is highlighting Progress Energy Florida, Inc. (Progress Energy).  Progress Energy has a variety of programs it offers to multifamily complexes with individually metered apartment units located within the geographic areas it serves.  Upon request, Progress Energy staff will visit your complex, assess energy needs, make recommendations regarding maximizing energy efficiency, and provide information regarding available incentives and rebates.   Additionally, Progress Energy can provide training on energy conservation to your tenants.  For information on specific services available through Progress Energy, you should contact Ms. Claudia Fredette, Energy Efficiency Advisor/Multifamily Project Manager at (727) 409-6376 or Claudia.fredette@pgnmail.com.”
...]]> <![CDATA[4350.3 Rev. 1 CHG 3 Effective August 1, 2009]]> Change 3 to Handbook 4350.3 REV-1, Occupancy Requirements of Subsidized Multifamily Housing Programs, was issued on June 23, 2009.  The effective date for implementation of Change 3 is August 1, 2009.
 
The majority of the changes are corrections or clarifications to current handbook text.  Some of the more significant changes are:
 
• Updates information on access to and use of the Systematic Alien Verification Entitlements (SAVE) system used for verifying the immigration status of individuals declaring eligible non-citizen status.
• Revises and expands the requirements for a live-in aide.
• Incorporates the requirements from Housing Notice H 03-07 on treatment of deployment of military personnel to active duty.
• Clarifies that the same requirements for treatment of Federal Government pension funds paid directly to an applicant’s/tenant’s former spouse pursuant to the terms of a court decree of divorce, annulment, or legal separation also applies to Uniformed Services pensions and other state, local government, social security or private pension funds.
• Includes that owners may develop rules covering tenants conducting incidental business in their units and who receive incidental business income.
• Removes the requirement that signatures on the HUD-50059-A for gross rent increases must be obtained before submitting the data to TRACS.  A note has been added that tenant signatures for gross rent changes affecting the rent the household must pay or utility reimbursement must be obtained within 60 days from the date the gross rent change is implemented by the owner, as evidenced by the owner’s submission of the voucher whereby the owner begins vouchering for assistance based on the new rents.
• Clarifies that when HUD or the Contract Administrator terminates assistance payments when a new certification is not submitted to TRACS within 15 months of the previous year’s recertification anniversary date, the owner must  repay the assistance collected for the 3-month period from the date the annual recertification should have been effective through the end of the 15th month when assistance was  terminated.
• Includes TRACS 202C requirements which includes implementation of the new HUD-50059-A, Owner’s Certification of Compliance with HUD’s Tenant Eligibility and Rent Procedures – Partial Certification.
 
Handbook4350.3 REV-1, CHG-3 is posted on HUDCLIPS at:  http://www.hud.gov/offices/adm/hudclips/handbooks/hsgh/4350.3/index.cfm.
 

...]]> <![CDATA[HUD OFFERS $10 MILLION TO CLEAN UP DANGEROUS LEAD IN HOUSING]]> The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is offering $10.1 million in grants to help eliminate dangerous lead-based paint hazards from lower income homes and protect young children from lead poisoning. HUD is making these grants available through its Healthy Homes Demonstration,Green and Healthy Homes Technical Studies, and Lead Hazard Control Capacity Building programs.

"Today, HUD is reinvesting in the future of our children by promoting healthier housing," said HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan. "The grants we're making available today will help communities clean up dangerous lead hazards, promote needed research, and demonstrate cutting edge ways to make our homes healthier."

HUD is making grants available through the following programs:

* Healthy Homes Demonstration Program - $6 million - These grants will help mobilize public and private resources to develop the most promising, cost-effective methods for identifying and controlling key housing-related environmental health and safety hazards. The grants will also build local capacity to operate sustainable programs that will prevent and control housing-related environmental health and safety hazards in low- and very low-income housing. Eligible applicants include not-for-profit institutions and for-profit firms, state and local governments, housing authorities, federally-recognized Indian Tribes, and colleges and universities. Application due date: Tuesday, November 24, 2009.

* Green and Healthy Homes Technical Studies - $ 2.4 million - These grants will improve knowledge of the effects residential green construction has on both indoor environmental quality and occupant health, with a particular focus on children and other sensitive populations. Eligible applicants include States, public institutions of higher education and hospitals, local (includes State-designated Indian Tribes, excludes institutions of higher education and hospitals); Federally Recognized Indian Tribal Governments; private nonprofit institution/organization (includes institutions of higher education and hospitals). Application due date: Tuesday, November 17, 2009.


* Lead Hazard Control Capacity Building - $ 1.7 million - These grants will help develop the infrastructure necessary to undertake comprehensive programs to identify and control lead-based paint hazards in eligible privately owned rental or owner-occupied housing. Eligible applicants include States, Federally-recognized Native American Tribes, cities, counties/parishes, or other units of local government that have never been a direct recipient or a subgrantee of a Lead-Based Paint Hazard Control or Lead Hazard Reduction Demonstration grant. Application due date: Thursday, November 19, 2009.


HUD will award grants in these three programs to approximately 28 - 51 applicants ranging from $50,000 to $875,000. Applications may be downloaded from the websites for the individual grant programs above, or from HUD's Funds Available Website.

...]]> <![CDATA[Exclusion from Annual Income of Temporary Employment from the U.S. Census Bureau]]> Pursuant to Section 24 CFR §5.609(c)(9), owners and management agents of housing occupied by tenants who receive Section 8 benefits are to exclude from the calculation of annual income any temporary income payments received by those tenants from the U.S. Census Bureau. Temporary is defined as employment lasting no longer than 180 days and not culminating in permanent employment. Employer verification of both the employment dates and income amount must be maintained in the tenant’s file.

 http://www.hud.gov/offices/adm/hudclips/notices/hsg/

...]]> <![CDATA[April 2010 Mandatory Use of EIV Final Rule Webcast Posted]]> The Mandatory Use of EIV Final Rule webcast that took place April 14, 2010, which discussed Housing Notice 10-08 Refinement of Income and Rent Determination Requirements in Public and Assisted Housing Programs: Implementation of the Enterprise Income Verification System – Amendments; Final Rule, has been posted to HUD’s webcasts page at http://portal.hud.gov/portal/page/portal/HUD/webcasts/archives.  The supplemental PowerPoint slides have been posted to the Multifamily EIV website at http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/mfh/rhiip/eiv/eivtraining.cfm.

...]]> <![CDATA[Revised Form: HUD 9624 Contract Renewal Request Form]]> On June 8, 2010, HUD posted a revised HUD form 9624- Contract Renewal Request Form. There are several changes to the form. Please be sure when submitting a Contract Renewal package to NTHDC, that you utilize the newest version of the document.

http://www.nthdc.org/media/ContractRenewal/9624_Contract%20Renewal_Request_Form_6.8.10.pdf

...]]> <![CDATA[Experiencing Problems with EIV?]]> HUD is asking Multifamily Program users of the EIV system to assist them in their effort to detect and correct all problems with the functionality of the EIV system since it came back online.  If you experience any data anomalies or other functionality issues during your use of the system, please send a description of the problem, what report was run and for what property as well as a screenshot, if possible, to Michael Sharkey at michael.a.sharkey@hud.gov.  This will help the EIV team troubleshoot, as well as provide a permanent fix, for any anomalies that may be occurring. 

 
Please be advised that the cents being left off of SSA income is not an anomaly; this is the amount transmitted by SSA and is to be used for SSA income calculation.
...]]> <![CDATA[Information Provided to Census Enumerators]]> Article I, Section 2 of the Constitution of the United States calls for an actual enumeration of the people every ten years to be used for appointment of seats in the House of Representatives among the states.  In March 2010, census takers began going to addresses across the country to count the population and to collect information for the 2010 Census.  

Census takers are required to contact occupied apartments themselves; however, if an apartment is vacant or if the census taker is unable to contact the tenant, the census taker is instructed to ask an apartment owner/manager to answer a few short questions about the apartment (e.g. who was occupying the unit on April 1, 2010), as well as provide the name and phone number of the apartment owner/manager in the event that the Census Bureau needed to ask any follow-up questions. 
 
In accordance with 13 USC 223 (shown below), owners and/or managers of Multifamily Housing properties must provide census takers with the names of tenants residing in their property when requested by a census taker.  If the census taker needs information past the names of the tenants, they should request this information from HUD.  Detailed information outside of the law below has to be requested from HUD as outlined in the Federal Privacy Act, as HUD is authorized to provide the detailed information maintained in a system of records (as defined by the Privacy Act).  Because there are no Privacy Act implications, owners and/or managers could also provide information on what units were vacant.  Property owners/managers are not authorized to disclose additional information.
 
In addition, Contract Administrators (CAs) of HUD Multifamily programs must not provide any tenant information to census takers.  If contacted, CAs should refer the census taker to the owner or manager of the property.
 
§ 223. Refusal, by owners, proprietors, etc., to assist census employees
 
Whoever, being the owner, proprietor, manager, superintendent, or agent of any hotel, apartment house, boarding or lodging house, tenement, or other building, refuses or willfully neglects, when requested by the Secretary or by any other officer or employee of the Department of Commerce or bureau or agency thereof, acting under the instructions of the Secretary, to furnish the names of the occupants of such premises, or to give free ingress thereto and egress therefrom to any duly accredited representative of such Department or bureau or agency thereof, so as to permit the collection of statistics with respect to any census provided for in subchapters I and II of chapter 5 of this title, or any survey authorized by subchapter IV or V of such chapter insofar as such survey relates to any of the subjects for which censuses are provided by such subchapters I and II, including, when relevant to the census or survey being taken or made, the proper and correct enumeration of all persons having their usual place of abode in such premises, shall be fined not more than $500.
...]]> <![CDATA[Draft Section 8 Renewal Policy Guidebook Available for Comment]]> The draft page changes to the Section 8 Renewal Guide have been posted for comment on the HUD Website at http://www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/mfh/mfhsec8.cfm and will remain posted on the website for 10 business days after the publication of the Federal Register Notice. 

Comments are due to HUD 20 business days after the publication of the Federal Register Notice and must be identified by specific page and paragraph reference.  Comments may be submitted by email to Section8RenewalGuide@hud.gov or by overnight mail to:

 
Department of Housing and Urban Development
Attention:  Section 8 Renewal Guide
Room 6134
451 7th Street SW
Washington, DC 20410
...]]>