24 C.F.R. § 5.528
§ 5.528 Liability of ineligible tenants for reimbursement of benefits. (24 CFR Part 5)
Operative Text
Where a tenant has received the benefit of HUD financial assistance to which the tenant was not entitled because the tenant intentionally misrepresented eligible status, the ineligible tenant is responsible for reimbursing HUD for the assistance improperly paid. If the amount of the assistance is substantial, the responsible entity is encouraged to refer the case to the HUD Inspector General's office for further investigation. Possible criminal prosecution may follow based on the False Statements Act (18 U.S.C. 1001 and 1010).
Under 24 CFR Part 5 § 5.528, a tenant who intentionally misrepresented their eligibility status and received HUD housing assistance as a result becomes liable to repay the improperly received benefits. When the amount involved is substantial, the rule encourages the responsible entity to refer the matter to the HUD Inspector General, and potential criminal charges under the False Statements Act may follow.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under 24 CFR Part 5 § 5.528, compliant housing operators and responsible entities document eligibility determinations carefully and, when they discover that a tenant intentionally misrepresented eligible status to obtain HUD assistance, they generally initiate reimbursement proceedings against that tenant. When the improperly received assistance is substantial in amount, operators are encouraged by this provision to refer the matter to the HUD Inspector General's office for further review.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Section 5.528 of 24 CFR Part 5 establishes that tenants who knowingly misrepresent their eligibility for HUD-assisted housing can be held personally responsible for repaying the assistance received, and may face referral to the HUD Inspector General or even criminal prosecution under the False Statements Act. Tenants who believe they have been incorrectly accused of misrepresentation may wish to review their eligibility documentation and consult a tenant-rights organization or housing attorney to understand available options.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated September 3, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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