If you are unable to obtain third party documentation or an intake worker observation for all or some of the applicant's chronic homelessness history, you can obtain a certification by the individual seeking assistance. You must also document the steps you took to first obtain third party documentation.
If you are unable to obtain third party verification for all or some of the applicant's chronic homelessness history, the applicant can use self-certification. Self-certifications are required to:
- Specifically state the dates for which the applicant is verifying their homelessness (i.e. June 2016 to August 2016) and exactly where the applicant was staying during those dates (i.e. in their car, sleeping outside)
- Be signed and dated by the applicant
- Be signed and dated by the intake worker. The intake worker should also print his/her name and title.
- The intake worker must also document in writing his/her efforts to first obtain third party documentation.
Limits on Self Certification for Prioritized/Dedicated Beds
In an operating year, 100% of individuals and families served in a PSH program can use self-certification or 2nd priority documentation to document 3 months of their chronic homelessness.
However, in an operating year, only 25% of individuals or families served in a PSH program can use self-certification or 2nd priority documentation to document more than 3 months of their chronic homelessness. The remaining 75% of individuals and families must have third party documentation for at least 9 out of the 12 months.
However, in an operating year, only 25% of individuals or families served in a PSH program can use self-certification or 2nd priority documentation to document more than 3 months of their chronic homelessness. The remaining 75% of individuals and families must have third party documentation for at least 9 out of the 12 months.
- This limit applies to clients who entered the program on or after January 15, 2016.
- There is no limitation on using self-certification to document breaks in homelessness. An applicant can self-certify all breaks in homelessness.