What is CMHA's role regarding the HCV program?

• CMHA pays out nearly $60 million annually in Housing Assistance Payments (HAP) to private landlords in Hamilton County, providing housing subsidies for    
   up to approximately 10,350 families. 
•  Families participating in the program choose where they want to live.
   

How do I get a Housing Choice Voucher?

• Step 1:  Submit an application to CMHA when the Waiting List opens.  CMHA will advertise through "Public Notice" in the local media.
• Step 2:  All families submitting a written application will be placed on the Waiting List.
• Step 3:  CMHA determines a need to select applicant's from the Waiting List.
• Step 4:  CMHA will notify those at the top of the list and will request verification information from those applicants.
• Step 5:  CMHA will determine the applicants eligibility for the HCV program (i.e. income & background checks). 
• Step 6:  CMHA will invite eligible applicants to a briefing.
• Step 7:  CMHA will issue vouchers to families immediately following the briefing.
• Step 8:  Applicants begin search for suitable housing.
   

What are the Requirements for an HCV Family?

• A family pays 30 to 40 percent of adjusted monthly income for rent and utilities.
• Deductions are granted for childcare, medical and other eligible expenses.
   

What are the Requirements for an HCV Landlord?

• The landlord is responsible for screening applicants and lease enforcement.
• The property must pass an annual Housing Quality Standards (HQS) Inspection and meet CMHA standards.
• The property must be maintained to consistently meet HQS requirements.
• The landlord must enter into a HAP contract with CMHA and an acceptable one-year lease with the tenant.
   

What are the HCV Rent Guidelines?

• CMHA is required to perform assessments to ensure that HCV rents are comparable to current unassisted market rents.
• The maximum assistance per family for rent and utilities cannot exceed CMHA’s Voucher Payment Standard (VPS).
• CMHA’s VPS is slightly higher for exception areas (low-poverty).
• The owner and applicant must agree to abide by the tenant rent and HAP amounts established by CMHA.
   

How do I Contact CMHA’s HCV Program?

• Call the HCV Department’s Customer Service Hotline between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday at 513-977-5800.
• Visit the office at 1635 Western Ave., Cincinnati, Ohio 45214.
• Utilize CMHA’s HCV email address at hcvhelp@cintimha.com.
• Contact an HCV staff member directly.