HUD-VASH has the following characteristics:

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• The VA case manager acts as the point of contact for both the household and the housing provider. This allows for positive communication between all the parties when there are questions or concerns.  

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• The program does not have a time limit. Eligible veterans can receive the subsidy and support for as long as they need or want it (as long as they remain eligible). This offers stability to both the program participant and the housing provider.

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• Participants in HUD-VASH select their own housing—which can include single-family homes, townhouses, or apartments or shared living situations — so long as that housing meets the District's fair rent standards and passes a Housing Quality Standards (HQS) inspection by a licensed HQS inspector.
   

• Each unit must pass a HQS inspection before a household can move in. Download the inspection checklist.

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• Participants sign their own lease. Through the lease signing process, we make sure that everyone understands their rights and obligations for participation in the program, tenancy, and how rent payments are made.​

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• Veterans receive supportive services as part of their participation in the program. VA case managers connect veterans with supportive services to help them in their recovery process and with their ability to maintain housing in the community. Case management services are focused on helping clients to stabilize and connect to resources.

 

• The difference in cost between the actual rent and the tenant portion is paid directly to the housing provider by the DC Housing Authority (DCHA). Veterans participating in the HUD-VASH program pay approximately 30 percent of their income towards rent directly to the housing provider.

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• Veterans can receive financial assistance to cover move-in costs of the security deposit and the first month’s rent.