What is the difference between "tenant rent" and "housing assistance payment" (HAP)?

The distinction between "tenant rent" and "housing assistance payment" (HAP) is essential for understanding how the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program operates. Tenant rent refers to the amount that the participating family is responsible for paying out of their own income toward their rent. This payment is determined through a formula based on the family's income, and the tenant is expected to cover this portion directly to the landlord.

On the other hand, the housing assistance payment (HAP) is the amount paid by the Public Housing Authority (PHA) directly to the landlord on behalf of the family to help cover the cost of housing. The HAP is calculated based on the family's financial situation, the fair market rent established for the area, and the specific rent agreement with the landlord.

Thus, option B accurately captures this fundamental aspect of the HCV program by stating that tenant rent is what the family pays out of pocket while the HAP is what the PHA pays to the landlord. This understanding is crucial for HCV specialists, as it underpins the financial interactions between the family, the landlord, and the PHA.