HUD Handbook 4350.3 § 8-2
Key Terms (HUD Occupancy Handbook 4350.3 REV-1 CHG-4)
Operative Text
A. There are a number of technical terms used in this chapter that have very specific
definitions established by federal statute or regulations or by HUD. These terms
are listed in Figure 8-1, and their definitions can be found in the Glossary to this
handbook. It is important to be familiar with these definitions when reading this
chapter.
B. The terms “disability” and “persons with disabilities” are used in two contexts – for
civil rights protections, and for program eligibility purposes. Each use has specific
definitions.
1. When used in context of protection from discrimination or improving the
accessibility of housing, the civil rights-related definitions apply.
2. When used in the context of eligibility under multifamily subsidized housing
programs, the program eligibility definitions apply.
NOTE: See the Glossary for specific definitions and paragraph 2-23 for an
explanation of this difference.
Figure 8-1: Key Terms
Adult Rural Housing Service (RHS)
*Enterprise Income Verification Tenant
(EIV)*
Tenant with a disability
Eviction
Termination of assistance
Family
Termination of tenancy
Fraud
Unauthorized occupant
Increased ability to pay
Unintentional program violation
Law enforcement agency
Live-in aideSection 8-2 of HUD Handbook 4350.3 REV-1 CHG-4 establishes a set of key terms that carry precise, federally defined meanings throughout Chapter 8, including terms like "disability," "tenant," "eviction," and "fraud." Notably, the terms "disability" and "persons with disabilities" carry different definitions depending on context: one set of definitions applies when the subject is civil rights protections and housing accessibility, and a separate set applies when determining eligibility for multifamily subsidized housing programs. Readers are directed to the Handbook's Glossary and paragraph 2-23 for the full definitions and an explanation of this distinction.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Operators and managers of HUD-assisted multifamily properties should be aware that § 8-2 of HUD Handbook 4350.3 REV-1 CHG-4 requires familiarity with the specific federal definitions of terms used throughout Chapter 8, as everyday meanings may differ from the regulatory ones. In particular, compliant operators distinguish between the civil rights definition of "disability" — relevant when addressing reasonable accommodations and accessibility — and the program eligibility definition, which governs who qualifies for subsidized housing assistance. Consulting the Handbook Glossary and paragraph 2-23 when applying these terms helps ensure consistent and accurate administration of the program.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
For tenants living in or applying to HUD-assisted multifamily housing, § 8-2 of HUD Handbook 4350.3 REV-1 CHG-4 is relevant because the word "disability" and related terms have distinct legal meanings depending on whether the issue involves protection from discrimination or qualification for housing assistance. Understanding which definition applies in a given situation can affect how rights are evaluated under the program. Tenants who have questions about how these definitions apply to their circumstances may find it helpful to consult the HUD Handbook Glossary, contact the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, or reach out to a local tenant-rights organization for general guidance.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
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