What is a tenant-based voucher?

A tenant-based voucher is a type of housing assistance that empowers families to choose their own housing options within the private rental market, as long as the unit meets certain eligibility criteria set by the Housing Authority. This flexibility is a key characteristic of tenant-based vouchers, enabling participants to select housing based on their needs, preferences, and circumstances.

This program primarily operates through the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, which provides subsidies to families that can be used in a variety of housing types, including apartments, single-family homes, and townhouses. The participant pays a portion of the rent, and the voucher covers the remaining costs, ensuring that families have greater control over their housing choices while still receiving financial assistance.

The other options describe different scenarios that do not align with the definition of a tenant-based voucher. For instance, a voucher that allows families to buy homes pertains to a different type of assistance, and the statement focusing solely on public housing does not reflect the flexibility given by tenant-based vouchers. Additionally, vouchers specifically for seniors indicate a specialized program that is not representative of the general tenant-based voucher framework, which serves a broader population.