HUD HCV Guidebook § 6
Project-Basing HUD-VASH Vouchers (HUD HCV Guidebook)
Operative Text
The HCV project-based voucher (PBV) program allows PHAs that already administer a tenant-based voucher program under an annual contributions contract (ACC) with HUD to project-base up to 20 percent of its authorized units which attaches the funding to specific units rather than using it for tenant-based assistance. In addition, PHAs may project-base an additional 10 percent of its units above the 20 percent program unit limit if the unit is dedicated to homeless families, families with disabilities or elderly persons, or in areas where vouchers are difficult to use.23 PHAs must24 operate HUD-VASH PBVs under the regulations for the PBV except in cases where the VASH operating requirements supersede these regulations, such as regulations referring to admissions and waiting lists. The collaborative nature of the HUD-VASH program makes coordination with partner VAMCs critical to the success of veterans housed in project-based HUD-VASH units. As such, HUD strongly encourages that PHAs considering project-basing HUD-VASH vouchers contact their partner VAMC to discuss the need and any details that should be included in the project selection. Prior to project-basing HUD-VASH vouchers, PHAs must consult with their partner VAMC to ensure that the VAMC will be able to continue to provide supportive services should the PHA project-base its HUD-VASH vouchers at the location.25 Other aspects of the project that PHAs may want to consider include any supportive services on or near the project site; accessibility of the proposed site to the VAMC or CBOC, transportation, and social and medical services; and vacancy rates in the area. 21 See Pub. L. No. 110-161 and subsequent appropriations acts. 22 HUD-VASH Sample Leasing Template 23 24 CFR § 983.6 24 24 CFR § 983 25 HUD-VASH Operating Requirements, Section K, “Project-Based Assistance.” and FR-5976_N-03
HUD Housing Choice Voucher Guidebook § 6 describes how Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) may convert a portion of their HUD-VASH tenant-based vouchers into project-based vouchers (PBVs), attaching rental assistance to specific housing units rather than to individual tenants. Under this framework, PHAs can project-base up to 20 percent of their authorized units, with an additional 10 percent allowed for units serving homeless families, people with disabilities, elderly persons, or residents in areas where vouchers are hard to use. Before doing so, PHAs are required to consult with their partner VA Medical Center (VAMC) to confirm that supportive services for veterans can continue at the proposed location.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Property owners and managers seeking to participate in project-based HUD-VASH arrangements under § 6 of the HCV Guidebook should be aware that the PHA administering the program must follow standard PBV regulations (24 CFR § 983), except where HUD-VASH-specific operating requirements take precedence, such as those governing admissions and waiting lists. Operators generally work closely with both the PHA and the partner VAMC, since the VAMC's ability to deliver on-site or nearby supportive services is a key factor in project selection. Considerations such as site accessibility to the VAMC or community-based outpatient clinics (CBOCs), transportation options, and local vacancy rates are all part of the evaluation process outlined in this provision.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
Veterans and other eligible individuals housed in project-based HUD-VASH units should understand that, under § 6 of the HCV Guidebook, the rental assistance is tied to the specific unit rather than traveling with the tenant, which differs from tenant-based voucher assistance. The provision requires that PHAs consult with the partner VAMC before project-basing vouchers, helping to ensure that supportive services remain available at the housing location. Veterans who have questions about their rights under a project-based HUD-VASH arrangement, including admissions and waiting list procedures, may contact their local PHA, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, or a tenant-rights or veterans-services organization for general guidance.
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 26, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
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