MTW Frequently Asked Questions
What is the MTW Program?
The MTW Program gives housing authorities the ability to modify their housing programs to better benefit their local community.
MTW has three objectives:
- Reduce cost
- Encourage self-sufficiency through job training, education programs, etc.
- Increase housing choices
What are housing agencies permitted to do under MTW?
Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) that are chosen to participate in MTW are allowed to structure their housing programs to better benefit their local community. These PHAs have flexibility in combining their funding across multiple housing programs and in how they deliver services to their participants.
MTW agencies must still follow all other federal rules and regulations, including the Fair Housing Act, the Civil Rights Act, labor standards, environmental rules, procurement guidelines, demolition and disposition procedures and relocation regulations. PHAs must also develop hardship policies and safeguards for unforeseen circumstances to support households in the MTW program.
What kinds of activities have MTW Agencies implemented?
MTW Agencies can only use MTW flexibility in pursuit of the three MTW objectives listed above. Some of the activities include streamlining HUD processes, redesigning HUD forms, inspection and rent reform, supportive services, developing mixed-income and tax credit properties, foreclosure prevention, and increasing the percentage of project-based vouchers.
How will the MTW program affect my rent?
The second cohort of the MTW Expansion Program is designed to evaluate different ways of calculating participants’ rent portions. AMHA will participate in this evaluation for seven years, approximately 8/1/22 through 7/31/29. All eligible households will be randomly assigned to either the Standard Rent group, with rent continuing to be calculated the way it is now (approximately 30% of household income), or the Tiered Rent group, to which the new rent policy will apply. The tiered rent policy groups households by income into tiers. Within each tier, all households will pay the same rent portion. Income reexaminations will occur every three years rather than every year. If a household’s income increases into a higher income tier, its rent will not change until the triennial income reexamination.
Will I be required to work?
No, work requirements are not included in AMHA’s MTW plan at this time. AMHA will encourage self-sufficiency through job training, education programs, and/or other activities that support economic self-sufficiency.
Will I have to move?
No, you will not have to move from your current unit due to AMHA joining the MTW program.
How long will AMHA be an MTW agency?
MTW agencies complete a twenty-year contract.
What are AMHA’s MTW plans?
You can read AMHA’s current MTW Supplement here.
Please continue to check back on this page for further updates. You may also ask questions or provide comments at any time by calling our MTW information line at (330) 825-6987 or email email MTW@AkronHousing.Org.
