How must a PHA notify an applicant if they are deemed ineligible for assistance?

The correct approach for a Public Housing Agency (PHA) to notify an applicant deemed ineligible for assistance is through written communication. This written notice must include the reasons for the determination and inform the applicant of their rights. This requirement aligns with federal regulations that protect the rights of applicants by ensuring they have a clear understanding of the reasons behind the ineligibility determination. Furthermore, it allows applicants to prepare for any appeals or next steps by knowing exactly what led to the decision.

The option of verbal communication only lacks the necessary documentation and transparency that a written notice provides. Verbal notifications do not create an official record and can be misunderstood or forgotten, reducing the clarity around the applicant's status and rights.

Sending an email notification could be insufficient as it does not guarantee that the applicant has received and acknowledged the information. Traditional written notices provide a reliable method of communication, including documented receipt.

While an official meeting can provide personal interaction and clarification, it does not replace the need for a formal written notification that records the reasons for ineligibility and details the applicant’s rights. Such a meeting alone lacks the formal documentation required to ensure the applicant understands their situation and has the means to take appropriate action, such as appealing the decision.

Thus, the choice that