Step 1 - Apply

Families submit an application to CMHA during the published wait list opening period and are served on a first-com/first-serve basic according to preferences.

Step 2 - Verification

When Applicants reach the top of the wait list, they are asked to provide verification of their eligibility for the HCVP. After eligibility has been confirmed, CMHA notifies the applicant that they have been qualified for a voucher.

Step 3 - Briefing

CMHA invites eligible applicants to a required briefing session.  Applicants MUST ATTEND a tenant briefing session in order to obtain their voucher.

Step 4 - Get Voucher

CMHA issues a Housing Choice Voucher to each applicant at the end of the tenant briefing.

Step 5 - Find a Unit

Applicants have 90 days to find a suitable unit, complete the Request for tenancy Approval Form (RTA) with the landlord and submit the document to CMHA.

Step 6 - Affordability Tests

CMHA reviews the RTA to verify that the applicant qualifies for the proposed unit and that the unit meets CMHA’s program requirements.

Click here for affordability Test.

Step 7 - Unit Inspected

The unit is inspected to ensure it meets HUD’s Housing Quality Standards (HQS).

Step 8 - Rent Reasonable Assessment

CMHA mst determine whether the rent to owner is a reasonable rent in comparision to rent for other comparable unassisted units. 

Step 9 - Move In

CMHA notifies all parties that the unit is approved for assistance, finalizes the tenant rent and HAP amounts, and obtains the move-in date from the tenant and the landlord.  The HAP packet is mailed to the landlord.

Step 10 - Owner Returns Lease & HAP Packet

CMHA sends the landlord a HAP contract and Tenancy Addendum outlining the program guidelines and specific contract payment amounts.  The landlord is responsible for completing the HAP contract and obtaining the tenant’s signature on the addendum.  The HAP Contract has to be dated within 60 calendar days of the effective date of the lease start date. The landlord must return these forms to CMHA along with a copy of the tenant’s Lease Agreement.

Step 11 - HAP Payment Issued

Upon receipt of the landlord’s HAP contract, the Tenancy Addendum and the tenant’s Lease Agreement, CMHA will review the Lease Agreement to ensure that it’s terms do not conflict with HUD regulations or PHA policy. Once approved, payments will be made on the next check run following the approval date. CMHA has three check runs per month to ensure speedy payments to landlords.  Payments are issued on the 1st, 15th and 30th of each month.  All payments are issued via direct deposit.