HUD Handbook 4350.3 § 2-2
Key Terms (HUD Occupancy Handbook 4350.3 REV-1 CHG-4)
Operative Text
A. There are a number of technical terms used in this chapter that have very
specific definitions established by federal statute or regulations, or by HUD.
These terms are listed in Figure 2-1 and their definitions can be found in the
Glossary to this handbook. It is important to be familiar with these definitions
when reading this chapter.
B. The terms “disability” and “persons with disabilities” are used in two contexts –
for civil rights protections, and for program eligibility purposes. Each use has
specific definitions.
1. When used in context of protection from discrimination or improving the
accessibility of housing, the civil rights-related definitions apply.
2. When used in the context of eligibility under multifamily subsidized
housing programs, the program eligibility definitions apply.
NOTE: See the Glossary for specific definitions and paragraph 2-23 for an
explanation of this difference.
Figure 2-1: Key Terms
Accessible
Accessible route Federally assisted housing
Adaptability **Limited English Proficiency (LEP)**
Alteration Person with disabilities (as defined
for civil rights protections)
Auxiliary aids
Prohibited bases
Disability
Qualified persons with disabilities
Fair Housing Act
Recipient
Familial status
Section 504
Federal financial assistance
Title VI – DHUD Handbook 4350.3 REV-1 CHG-4 § 2-2 establishes that certain technical terms used throughout Chapter 2 carry precise definitions set by federal statute, regulations, or HUD itself. Notably, the terms 'disability' and 'persons with disabilities' carry different meanings depending on context: one set of definitions applies when addressing civil rights protections and housing accessibility, while a separate set applies when determining eligibility for multifamily subsidized housing programs. Readers are directed to the Handbook's Glossary and paragraph 2-23 for the full definitions and an explanation of these distinctions.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers operating under HUD multifamily programs should be aware that HUD Handbook 4350.3 REV-1 CHG-4 § 2-2 requires familiarity with the specific technical definitions listed in Figure 2-1 before applying Chapter 2's requirements. Compliant operators generally consult the Handbook's Glossary to ensure they are applying the correct definition of 'disability' — whether in the civil rights context (covering anti-discrimination and accessibility obligations) or the program eligibility context — rather than relying on a general or colloquial understanding. Keeping these distinctions clear helps operators apply occupancy, accessibility, and nondiscrimination standards accurately across their properties.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
HUD Handbook 4350.3 REV-1 CHG-4 § 2-2 clarifies that the word 'disability' has different legal meanings depending on whether it is being used to evaluate civil rights protections — such as protection from discrimination or the right to accessible housing — or to determine eligibility for a subsidized housing program. Tenants who believe their rights under either framework may be at issue can consult the Handbook's Glossary and paragraph 2-23 to understand which definition applies to their circumstances. General information and assistance navigating these definitions may also be available through tenant-rights organizations or by filing a complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
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 30, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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