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· How is my rent calculated?
You are charged a monthly rent that is based on 30% of your adjusted income or 10% of your gross household income. Everyone’s rent is calculated in accordance with HUD regulations. In order to move into one of our units, you will be required to sign a written lease. It will show the amount of rent you will be required to pay. You will also be required to pay a deposit based on bedroom size. Back to top
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· When will my rent be due?
Your rent will be due the first of each month. If you do not pay your rent by the 5th of each month a late fee will be added to your account. If the 5th falls on the weekend or holiday, late charges will not be added if the payment is in our drop box by 7:59 AM on the first working day following the 5th. Please call your Housing Specialist if you have further questions. Back to top
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· How and where will I pay rent?
The Housing Authority does not accept cash. It is our policy to never have any cash on hand. We strongly urge you to pay with a check or money order. You can either mail your rent to The Housing Authority of South Bend, 501 Alonzo Watson Drive, South Bend, Indiana 46601 or pay it at our payment window (remember, no cash). If you pay by mail, please be sure to include the return portion of your billing statement, and write your correct address and account number on the check or money order. The Housing Authority can also assist you in setting up a direct pay arrangement with your bank. Back to top
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· Will my rent be adjusted every year?
Your rent will be adjusted any time your income or family size changes. Your income and family composition will be verified by the Housing Authority at least once a year to determine if there are any changes. Back to top
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· What is considered income?
Annual income is the anticipated total income from all sources received by the head of household and spouse and also by each additional family member who is over 18 years of age and not a full time student. This includes all income derived from assets for the 12 month period following the effective date of our verification of your income. Back to top
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· Do I have to verify my family’s income?
All income must be verified! Some examples of income include wages, social security, supplemental security income, child support, TANF, family support, pensions, etc. If unreported income is found, it could result in you having to pay back money or possible termination of your housing assistance. Back to top
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· What deductions are allowed?
Deductions are allowed in the following amounts for the following reasons:
$480 for each member of the family residing in the household who is under 18 years of age, or who is older than 18 and handicapped/ disabled or a full- time student (other than the head of household or spouse).
$400 for any senior couple.
Medical expenses in excess of 3% of annual income of any elderly family.
Reasonable child care expenses necessary to enable another member of the family to be employed or to further his/ her education.
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· What is Total Tenant Payment (TTP)?
Total Tenant Payment is the highest of the following rounded to the nearest dollar.
30% of monthly adjusted income, or;
10% of gross monthly income, or;
A minimum rent established by the Housing Authority in accordance with HUD regulations, or;
A flat rent established by the Housing Authority in accordance with HUD regulations. Back to top
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· What is adjusted income?
Adjusted income is annual income less deductions according to HUD regulations. Back to top
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· Do I have to report changes in my family’s income?
Yes! Your rent is based on your adjusted family income. You are required to let us know when there is a change in:
The source of income (such as TANF to employment, part- time hours to full- time hours etc.).
The amount of income such as a salary increase or decrease.
The number of people in your family.
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