Housing Counselor Certification (HUD) Practice Exam

Who is most likely to issue a Housing Choice Voucher?

1. State government

2. Local housing authority

3. Private lender

4. Non-profit organization

The correct answer is: Local housing authority

The issuance of Housing Choice Vouchers is primarily the responsibility of local housing authorities, which are entities established by cities or counties to manage public housing programs. These authorities operate under guidelines set forth by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to ensure that families with low income can access affordable housing options in the private rental market. Local housing authorities are directly involved in the administration of the Housing Choice Voucher program, including determining eligibility, conducting inspections of rental properties, and providing support to voucher recipients as they seek suitable housing. This local level of administration allows for responsiveness to the specific housing needs of the community. In contrast, while state governments may have broader roles in housing policy, they do not typically issue vouchers themselves; instead, they oversee local housing authorities. Private lenders and non-profit organizations play different roles in the housing market and do not issue Housing Choice Vouchers, as their focus is usually on financing or assistance rather than the direct administration of housing resources provided by HUD.