VA Homeless Programs
Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) Shallow Subsidy Services
VA offers a number of different programs and services to assist Veterans who are at risk of homelessness in response to the affordable housing crisis. Among those is the Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) Shallow Subsidy services.
Shallow Subsidy offers a set percentage of rental support over a defined time, differentiating it from traditional rapid rehousing and homelessness prevention assistance that has more rental assistance flexibility but is generally a shorter, variable timeframe.
Shallow Subsidy services have proven to be effective in preventing homelessness due to evictions and other housing crises. It is different from traditional rapid rehousing and homelessness prevention assistance services because of its ability to support households for a longer period (up to 24 months) while supporting housing stability.
If you find yourself in need of assistance to stay in stable housing, learn more about how Shallow Subsidy services can serve you and your family until circumstances improve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be enrolled in SSVF to receive the Shallow Subsidy service?
Yes, Shallow Subsidy is available only to eligible and enrolled Veterans in the SSVF Program. It is one of the many services that may be available to a Veteran to ensure long-term housing stability.
How long can I receive Shallow Subsidy services?
Each eligible Veteran can receive up to two years or 24 months of Shallow Subsidy services. This will be determined locally based on income eligibility and any previous rental assistance provided by traditional SSVF.
What is the maximum amount of rental subsidy I can receive for my household through Shallow Subsidy services?
Shallow Subsidy services provide up to 50% of rent on a unit that is deemed rent reasonable.
What happens if I am unable to pay my portion of the rent?
If you are no longer able to pay your portion of rent, you will still have the cushion of traditional rapid rehousing or homeless prevention financial services through SSVF.
If I have an increase in income, will Shallow Subsidy assistance go away?
No. While a Veteran household is receiving Shallow Subsidy services, they remain eligible for the full commitment period regardless of increases in income.
Do I need to be living in permanent housing to be considered for Shallow Subsidy services?
In most cases, your household will already be placed in permanent housing with support from traditional SSVF before accessing Shallow Subsidy services. In some cases, Veterans can be referred to Shallow Subsidy services at initial intake, bypassing the need for rental assistance or deposits from traditional SSVF.
What happens if my rent changes?
If your rent increase is due to your household being required to move to a different (and possibly larger) unit with a different rate amount, the “new” Shallow Subsidy amount would be based on the rent amount included in the new lease if the rent amount is determined to be reasonable.
Similarly, if you move to a more affordable unit, the subsidy would be adjusted based on the new rent amount.
If the rent increase is solely due to the landlord raising the Veteran household rent, no increase in the rental subsidy amount may occur. SSVF grantees, however, may negotiate with the landlord to keep the rental amount the same.
How to Get Help through SSVF Shallow Subsidy Service
- Reach out to your local SSVF grantee to help determine if you are eligible for traditional, Shallow Subsidy, or other services to help find and maintain housing or prevent the loss of your current housing.
- If you are in need of urgent housing assistance, call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877-424-3838, where trained counselors are ready to talk confidentially 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
- Visit the SSVF Initiatives website to learn more about the Shallow Subsidy service.
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