Item HA 03 - Update to the Housing Choice Voucher Administrative Plan

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Administrative Plan 7/1/2025 Page 17-83 Use of FMRs, Exception Payment Standards, and Utility Allowances [24 CFR 983.301(f)] When determining the initial rent to owner, the PHA must use the most recently published FMR in effect and the utility allowance schedule in effect at execution of the HAP contract. When redetermining the rent to owner, the PHA must use the most recently published FMR and the utility allowance schedule in effect at the time of redetermination. At its discretion, the PHA may for initial rent, use the amounts in effect at any time during the 30-day period immediately before the beginning date of the HAP contract, or for redeterminations of rent, the 30-day period immediately before the redetermination date. For PBV projects that are not located in a designated SAFMR area or located in a ZIP code where the PHA has opted in to SAFMRs, any exception payment standard amount under the tenant-based voucher program also applies to the project-based voucher program. HUD will not approve a different exception payment standard amount for use in the PBV program. For PBV projects that are located in a designated SAFMR area or located in a ZIP code where the PHA has opted in to SAFMRs, an exception payment standard amount under the tenant- based voucher program applies when setting rents under 24 CFR 983.301(b)(1) for PBV units and 983.301(c)(1)(iv) for certain tax credit units only if the PHA has adopted a policy applying SAFMRs to its PBV program and met all other requirements in 24 CFR 888.113(h), which are described below. The PHA may not establish or apply different utility allowance amounts for the PBV program. The same utility allowance schedule applies to both the tenant-based and project-based voucher programs. SAHA Policy Upon written request by the owner, SAHA will consider using the FMR or utility allowances in effect during the 30-day period before the start date of the HAP, or redetermination of rent. The owner must explain the need to use the previous FMRs or utility allowances and include documentation in support of the request. SAHA will review and make a decision based on the circumstances and merit of each request. In addition to considering a written request from an owner, SAHA may decide to use the FMR or utility allowances in effect during the 30-day period before the start date of the HAP, or redetermination of rent, if SAHA determines it is necessary due to PHA budgetary constraints. EXHIBIT 1