DHCD revised its RAFT eligibility guidelines to make RAFT more accessible in light of the extraordinary demand on this resource during these times. A one page summary is available here (and below) and the Powerpoint Presentation provides additional detail.
Key policy changes include:
- Maximum benefit level increased. The new maximum benefit limit is $10,000 for all types of RAFT and housing crisis options. There is no longer a combined benefit limit between RAFT and HomeBASE.
- Sustainability requirements no longer in effect. No more “6 month rule” and no more “presumption of future sustainability.
- Automatic Income eligibility. Income limits are 50% area median income (AMI), bumped to 60% if affected by domestic violence DTA/MassHealth recipients are automatically income-eligible. Non-DTA/MassHealth households must verify income.
Please go to the summary and/or the Powerpoint for additional information.
Bottom line: if tenants were previously denied, they should reapply! These rule changes may make them eligible for rental assistance.
