Certain costs incurred by a household member with a disability may be considered when determining adjusted income for housing voucher eligibility and rent calculation. These expenses must be: reasonable, related to the disability, and necessary to enable a household member (with the disability) to work or to ameliorate the conditions of the individual with the disability. Examples include attendant care, medical equipment, and modifications to the dwelling beyond reasonable accommodation that is paid by the family. The goal is to recognize the financial burden that disability-related expenses place on a household.
Accounting for these costs helps to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equitable access to affordable housing. By reducing adjusted income, the housing voucher program becomes more accessible, allowing individuals with disabilities to maintain independent living and participate more fully in their communities. Historically, acknowledging these expenses represents a significant step towards a more inclusive and supportive housing system.
