Finding Text
Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
Federal Program Name: Housing Voucher Cluster
Assistance Listing Number: 14.871/14.879/14.EHV
Federal Award Identification Number and Year: VA901; 2023-2024
Award Period: July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024
Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control over Compliance, Other Matters
Criteria or specific requirement: When a family has been selected from the waiting list, the PHA must notify the family (24 CFR 982.544(a)).
Condition/Context: During our testing of 60 files for waiting list requirements, we noted the following in 2 files:
- 2 out of 60 files did not include documentation that the Authority notified the applicant that their name had reached the top of the waiting list.
The samples were statistically valid samples.
Questioned costs: None
Cause: As a balance of state PHA, the Authority is responsible for ensuring the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program is administered in compliance with Federal regulations across Virginia. The Authority has partnered with 26 local housing agencies (LHAs) throughout the state to administer the program. However, due to the number of LHAs, inconsistencies in quality control practices have emerged. These variations result from differences in agency size, staffing structures, geographic service areas, and overall program capacity. The Authority has been actively working to improve the
HCV program by taking a methodical approach, making intentional decisions about program enhancements while balancing the need for swift compliance with federal regulations.
Effect: The Authority is not in compliance with HUD requirements.
Repeat Finding: No
Recommendation: We recommend that the Authority review its internal controls over the waiting list process to ensure all documentation is maintained at the time each applicant is selected from the
waiting list.
Views of responsible officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.