Finding Text
Finding 2023-001 – Housing Choice Voucher Tenant Files – Eligibility – Rent Calculations
Noncompliance & Significant Deficiency
Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Cluster – ALNs #14.871 and #14.879
Condition & Cause:
We reviewed sixty-five (65) Housing Choice Voucher tenant files and noted seven (7) files not in compliance, or 10.8%. For three (3) of the files, we noted that the reexaminations in review were not maintained with the tenant documentation. Upon further inquiry, the Authority was unable to provide the documentation for the missing actions. The HAP paid during the fiscal year from the three (3) undocumented actions is the basis for the questioned costs. For the remaining four (4) files, we noted that the verification of income was either missing or outdated. We noted that the Authority experienced high staff turnover and has had difficulty in hiring and retaining employees. As of August 2023, subsequent to year-end, the Authority has contracted with an outside vendor to assist with tenant certifications.
Criteria:
The Code of Federal Regulations, the Authority’s Administrative Plan, and specific HUD guidelines in documenting and maintaining Housing Choice Voucher tenant files.
Effect:
Improper verification and documentation of tenant reexaminations can result in misstatement of the financial statements, improper calculation of HAP subsidy, and noncompliance with Federal provisions governing the Housing Choice Voucher program.
Recommendation:
We recommend that the Authority conduct a file audit of existing tenants to determine the extent of the deficiencies. We also recommend that the Authority implement a quality control review to adequately monitor compliance with regulations pertaining to the maintenance of tenant files.
Questioned Costs: $46,655
Repeat Finding: No
Was sampling statistically valid? Yes