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In this article, we will review the HUD definition of homelessness which consists of four categories. We will take a deeper look at each category and what qualifies under the definition.

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The Four Categories of Homelessness (from HUD)

1. Literally homeless
2. Imminent risk of homelessness
3. Homeless under other federal statutes
4. Fleeing/attempting to flee domestic violence

Category 1: Literally Homeless

This category consists of individuals or families who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence. An individual or family only needs to meet one of the three subcategories to qualify.

Subcategories:

1. Has a primary nighttime residence that is a public place not meant for human habitation (ex. park bench, vehicle, or abandoned house); or
2. Is living in a publicly or privately operated shelter designed to provide temporary living; or
3. Is exiting an institution (ex. hospital, jail, or inpatient care center) where they have resided for 90 days or less and who resided in an emergency shelter or place not meant for human habitation immediately before that.

Category 2: Imminent Risk of Homelessness

This category consists of individuals or families who will imminently lose their primary nighttime residence given that:

1. The residence will be lost within 14 days of the date of application for homelessness assistance;
2. No subsequent residence has been identified; and
3. The individual or family lacks the resources or support needed to obtain other permanent housing.

Category 3: Homeless Under Other Federal Statutes

This category consists of unaccompanied youth under the age of 25, or families with children/youth that meet the Category 3 definition, who do not otherwise qualify as homeless under this definition, but who:

1. Are defined as homeless under the other listed federal statutes;
2. Have not had a lease agreement, ownership interest in permanent housing during the last 60 days prior to their application;
3. Have experienced persistent instability (measured by two or more moves during the last 60 days); and
4. Can be expected to continue in such status for an extended period of time due to special needs or barriers.

Category 4: Fleeing/Attempting to Flee Domestic Violence 

This category consists of any individual or family who:

1. Is fleeing, or attempting to flee, domestic violence;
2. Has no other residence; and
3. Lacks the resources or support to obtain other permanent housing.

 

 

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Related Articles

Street Outreach Work Flow

Emergency Shelter Work Flow

 

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Still having trouble?

If you still have questions about HUD’s definition of homelessness, please contact the HMIS Administration Team at [email protected].