FAQ's Family Self Sufficiency
What is the Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) Program?
The FSS program can help you build a more stable financial future. As your income from work increases, your rent increase is saved in an escrow account that you’ll receive when you successfully complete the program. FSS is a five-year program.
Am I eligible to join FSS if I am unemployed?
Yes, voucher participants who are not currently employed are allowed – and encouraged – to join the program. To join the program, you must be willing to seek employment since it is a graduation requirement.
How does the FSS Savings Account work?
When you enroll in the program, your Augusta Housing sets up and manages a FSS savings account for you. An increase in your rent because of an increase in earnings from work will result in a credit to your account.
What is the Family Self Sufficiency (FSS) Program?
The FSS program can help you build a more stable financial future. As your income from work increases, your rent increase is saved in an escrow account that you’ll receive when you successfully complete the program. FSS is a five-year program.
Am I eligible to join FSS if I am unemployed?
Yes, voucher participants who are not currently employed are allowed – and encouraged – to join the program. To join the program, you must be willing to seek employment since it is a graduation requirement.
How does the FSS Savings Account work?
When you enroll in the program, your Augusta Housing sets up and manages a FSS savings account for you. An increase in your rent because of an increase in earnings from work will result in a credit to your account.
Do I have access to the escrow account anytime?
You do not have access to the account during the program. Your Housing Authority manages the account for you until you graduate. Can I access the funds for emergencies? You cannot use the account for emergencies. You can however request an interim disbursement during the program if the money will be used to make progress on one of your set goals outlined in your contract. |
What are the graduation requirements?
There are three requirements to graduate from the program. First, you’ll need to be suitably employed at the time of graduation. Second, all household members will need to be free of cash welfare assistance for at least 12 months prior to graduation. Finally, you must have completed the goals you set during the program.
What if I can't complete my goals in five years?
If you need more time to complete the program, you can request an extension of up to two years depending on the circumstances. For example, if you have an unexpected health issue or sudden job loss, you can request an extension.
There are three requirements to graduate from the program. First, you’ll need to be suitably employed at the time of graduation. Second, all household members will need to be free of cash welfare assistance for at least 12 months prior to graduation. Finally, you must have completed the goals you set during the program.
What if I can't complete my goals in five years?
If you need more time to complete the program, you can request an extension of up to two years depending on the circumstances. For example, if you have an unexpected health issue or sudden job loss, you can request an extension.
What else do I need to know?
- If income decreases no money is taken out of your escrow account.
- All earnings from work that affect your household rent will contribute to your FSS Escrow Account.
- If you lose your housing assistance while participating in FSS you are no longer eligible to remain in the FSS program. Early graduation may occur in some instances.
- If you graduate from FSS you can still keep your voucher, or work towards Homeownership.
- You can graduate early if you complete the graduation requirements before your contract term is up.
For more information or to sign up click the link below.