The recertification process is a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) requirement that allows DHA to review participant income and household composition and to adjust the household’s level of assistance accordingly.

Regular recertification must be performed at least annually.  Because DHA is a MTW agency, recertifications are performed biennially (every other year). Recertification may affect your share of the rent, your utility allowance, and/or the size of the voucher for which you are eligible.

The effective date of a recertification is determined when you move into a unit. Your effective date will change if you change units.

• Prior to the effective date, you will be mailed a re-examination packet. Normally, the process starts around 3 months in advance.
• You must complete all documents in the packet and return them by the due date
• You will be notified, by email or letter, if additional information is needed.
• After all required documents are received, your Occupancy Specialist will review and will follow up with one or more of the HUD-approved methods for obtaining verification of income.
• You will be notified in writing of your rent portion including the effective date of the change.

Failure to return paperwork may result in the termination of your assistance.

Methods for Obtaining Verification of Income

DHA must use the HUD-provided verification guidance to verify all information that is used to calculate housing assistance. The highest level of verification must be used when available. These methods are listed below in order of importance.

• Enterprise Income Verification (EIV), Up-front Income Verification (UIV) – HUD-approved, computer-based sources of income verification.
• Original Documents (ex-paystubs)
• Written Third-Party Verification (verification sent directly to the employer)
• Oral Third-Party Verification (directly contacting the income source by phone)
• Self-Certification or Declaration (written statement of fact by applicant or participant family)

There is no option to opt out of the recertification process.  Failure to complete the recertification process, including supplying all requested documentation, may result in termination of your assistance.