How HUD-VASH Works: A Step-by-Step Guide for San Antonio Veterans
Finding stable housing can be challenging. Doing it while sorting through program names, referrals, and paperwork can feel overwhelming. If you’re a veteran in San Antonio who has heard about HUD-VASH but isn’t sure how it works, this guide covers what the program is, who it’s for, and how to take the first step.
What Is HUD-VASH?
HUD-VASH is a partnership between the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). It combines two kinds of support:
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A Housing Choice Voucher from HUD, which helps pay rent at a privately owned apartment.
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Case management and clinical support from the VA, which helps veterans settle in and stay housed.
The program follows a Housing First approach: get a veteran into a stable home first, then build support around them. You can read the official overview on the VA’s HUD-VASH page and HUD’s HUD-VASH page.
Who Qualifies?
Eligibility has two parts:
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VA eligibility. The VA determines whether a veteran qualifies for VA health care and is a good fit for the program. HUD-VASH is designed for veterans experiencing homelessness, including those facing long-term or repeated homelessness.
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Housing authority eligibility. The local public housing agency reviews income and other program rules.
Because the VA makes the first determination, the process always starts with the VA, not with the apartment community.
What Will I Pay for Rent?
HUD-VASH participants generally pay about 30% of their adjusted income toward rent, and the voucher covers the rest. Your exact portion depends on your income and household. Participants recertify their income each year.
How to Get Started: Step by Step
Step 1: Contact the VA. If you’re not already working with the VA, call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 877-424-3838. It’s free, confidential, and available 24/7. Locally, you can also contact the South Texas Veterans Health Care System and ask for a Homeless Coordinator.
Step 2: Get screened and referred. A VA team member will review your eligibility and, if HUD-VASH is a fit, refer you to the program.
Step 3: Work with your case manager. Every HUD-VASH participant is assigned a case manager. They’ll help with paperwork, the voucher process, and your housing search.
Step 4: Find a community that accepts HUD-VASH. Tell your case manager where you’d like to live. If you’re interested in Valor Hill, let them know and contact our leasing office so we can coordinate with your team.
Step 5: Tour, apply, and move in. We’ll walk you through availability across our studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartments, along with income documentation and next steps.
What HUD-VASH Support Looks Like at Valor Hill
At Valor Hill, support doesn’t stop at move-in. Veterans living in HUD-VASH homes receive on-site case management from the VA. Our partner Endeavors, a San Antonio-based nonprofit, also provides housing assistance, mental health services, employment programs, and family support from an office inside the community.
That means fewer bus rides to appointments and more time getting settled. Learn more on our Veterans & Voucher Housing page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply to Valor Hill directly with HUD-VASH?
HUD-VASH referrals come through the VA. Once you’re working with a VA case manager, contact our office and we’ll coordinate with them.
Do I have to be a veteran to live at Valor Hill?
No. Select homes are designated for veterans, and Valor Hill also offers income-restricted and market-rate homes. See our FAQ for details.
What if I’m in crisis right now?
Call 988 and press 1 for the Veterans Crisis Line, available 24/7.
Take the First Step
Questions about HUD-VASH or living at Valor Hill? Call our leasing office at 833-951-7989 or schedule a tour.