If a disability is obvious, what is required regarding third-party verification?

When a disability is obvious, third-party verification is not required. This principle arises from the need to ensure accessibility and privacy for individuals with disabilities. The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program recognizes that when a disability is clearly observable—meaning there is sufficient visual or contextual information to acknowledge it—there is no necessity to obtain further verification from a third party.

This approach helps to streamline processes and reduce unnecessary burdens on individuals who may already face challenges due to their disabilities. It allows participants in the program to access assistance more efficiently and respects their dignity and privacy by limiting the amount of sensitive information that needs to be disclosed or verified.

In situations where a disability is not apparent, or if there are questions about the nature of the disability, mandatory or optional verification may be needed, depending on the circumstances. However, for obvious disabilities, the requirement for third-party verification is eliminated to facilitate engagement with the housing assistance process.