What is meant by "income limits" in the HCV program?

In the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, "income limits" refer to the specific restrictions that determine the income level of families eligible to qualify for rental assistance. These limits are established based on the median income levels of the area where the family resides. They ensure that assistance is directed to those who truly need it, typically focusing on very low-income households, which are generally defined as earning no more than 50% of the median income of the area.

By setting these income limits, the HCV program aims to help families who are most in need, thereby fostering stability in housing for low-income populations. This also helps ensure that the resources available through the program are allocated effectively, prioritizing those with the greatest financial challenges in securing affordable housing.

The other options do not align with the definition of "income limits." For instance, budget limits pertain to the overall financial resources available for the program itself, while limits on the number of vouchers issued refer to administrative constraints, and maximum allowable rent amounts relate to the thresholds for rental costs rather than the income of participants.