HUD will not revise TRACS version 202D to make it compliant with HOTMA; instead, all HOTMA provisions will be rolled out with the future release of TRACS version 203A. This means that, as of the date of this message, the MFH systems and forms used to receive and process owner vouchers have not yet been updated to reflect the new HOTMA rules.
HUD’s Office of Multifamily Housing Programs strongly recommends that owners align their own HOTMA implementation timeframe with the release of 203A (anticipated Summer 2024).
For owners who decide to implement HOTMA and other new requirements issued in the HOTMA Implementation Notice (as revised) prior to the release of 203A, please note the following guidance.
Use of Rent Override Function
An owner who implements HOTMA prior to the release of TRACS version 203A must utilize the “rent override” function in TRACS if a family’s HOTMA-calculated tenant rent differs from their pre-HOTMA calculated tenant rent. An owner employing the rent override function must:
1. Submit accurate information in Sections B (Summary) and C (Household Information) of the 50059. Section C must accurately reflect the circumstances of the household so that HUD can continue income data-matching with other agencies;
2. Enter the data in the remaining sections D (Income Information), E (Asset Information), and F (Allowances & Rent Calculations) of the 50059 from the family’s most recent reexamination (either annual or interim); and
3. Submit non-interim transactions (see subtopic I.4 in Attachment I of Notice H 2023–10) as interim reexaminations, when applicable.
Use of the rent override function may result in the generation of specific, limited discrepancy codes, which owners may disregard. HUD has instructed Contract Administrators to process vouchers despite these specific discrepancy codes, after ensuring that all other information is correct. HUD strongly encourages owners to provide their Contract Administrators with notice that they intend to use the rent override function.