Project-Based Assistance

Project-Based Assistance

  • Year Started 1974
  • Administratering Agency U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
  • Total Units Count 3,435,161
  • Total Assisted Units Count 2,683,016
  • # Persons/Houshold Served 2,274,058
  • Funding Agency U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
  • Population Targeted Families with 80% or less of AMI. 40% of units need to go to families with 30% of AMI or less.
  • Client Group Type PBA
  • Housing Type Name Multifamily Housing
  • Last Updated June 1, 2022

If the resource information above is incorrect, please notify your local HUD field office.

The Project-Based Assistance program is one of the many initiatives under the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) that assist in providing affordable housing options to low-income families.  This program targets individuals and families who are struggling to afford rental housing in the private market.  Under the Project-Based Assistance Program, HUD enters into contracts with private landlords to subsidize the rents of eligible households.  This program provides a stable rental subsidy for a specific housing unit, ensuring that the tenant’s rent payment does not exceed 30% of their income.  In return, the landlords agree to maintain the rental unit in good condition and to follow all of HUD’s rules and regulations.

HUD’s Project-Based Assistance program has several benefits for low-income families.  One of the main advantages is that it provides long-term affordable housing.  With the support of this program, tenants can live in their homes for as long as they meet the program’s eligibility criteria, providing them with home stability.  Additionally, the program ensures that housing units meet HUD’s quality standards, as landlords are required to maintain the units in good condition.  Furthermore, the program helps reduce homelessness by providing safe and stable housing to those who may otherwise be at risk of homelessness.

To be eligible for the Project-Based Assistance program, individuals and families must meet certain income requirements and other eligibility criteria.  The program is designed to target low-income households, and the subsidy provided by HUD is calculated based on the household’s income.  Families with members who have disabilities and seniors are given priority under this program.  Applicants must also meet the program’s screening and eligibility requirements, which include background checks, credit checks, and landlord references.  Once accepted into the program, tenants sign a lease agreement with the private landlord and HUD provides the rental assistance to the landlord on their behalf. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Statutory and Regulatory Authority

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Statutes

Section 202, Housing Act of 1959

  • 12 U.S.C.A. § 1701q

Section 811, National Affordable Housing Act of 1990

  • 42 U.S.C.A § 8013

Select HUD Regulations

  • 24 C.F.R. Part 247 (evictions)
  • 24 C.F.R. Part 891 (supportive housing for the elderly and persons with disabilities)