Analyzing and Documenting the Rent Calculation Process .ppt

January 2004 Data Collection, Analysis and Documenting PH Chapter 3. Data Collection, Analysis, and Documenting the Rent Calculation Process Chapter 3. Section 1.Introduction Learning Objective Gather, analyze and document information through improved skill development in interviewing and analysis Introduction HUD programs rely greatly on voluntary disclosure by family PHA actions to reduce vulnerability Critically analyze PHA intake and reexamination processes Work on improving the interviewing skills of their staff Train their staffs to analyze information critically Introduction PHA actions to reduce vulnerability Develop comprehensive data collection and verification tools Adopt policies that require relevant documents to be provided by families Make maximum use of UIV tools to prevent and detect false statements and underreporting of income Introduction Steps in the rent calculation process: Gathering data Interviewing Verification Review and follow-up Data entry and calculation Maintaining files Introduction The steps are determined by the answers to three important questions: What information is needed for correct rent calculations? How will the information be verified? How will the information be processed and recorded? Chapter 3. Section 2.Step 1: Gathering Data Gathering Data: Forms For most PHAs, the admission or reexamination process begins when a “forms packet” is provided to the family The forms used for initial and annual certifications are most critical (application and recertification forms) RIM reviewers have found that many application and verification forms used by PHAs do not ask ALL necessary questions or questions are too vague to make accurate determinations of income and rent Gathering Data: Forms If the PHA’s forms do not ask ALL of the right questions clearly, staff may be unable to make correct income and rent determinations Forms should be reviewed for the 4 C’s: completeness, clarity, and compliance with current requirements