What Is Coordinated Entry
Coordinated Entry is a standardized assessment and intake system that PHAs and Continuums of Care use to evaluate, prioritize, and refer homeless individuals and families to available housing resources. Under HUD's 2015 mandate, every CoC must implement a coordinated entry process to improve efficiency and ensure equitable access to housing assistance programs, including Section 8 vouchers.
How It Works
When someone experiencing homelessness seeks housing assistance, they enter through a single standardized assessment point rather than applying separately to multiple programs. Here's the process:
- An intake worker administers the Vulnerability Index or similar assessment tool to evaluate housing barriers, income level, health status, and priority needs.
- The system scores applicants based on vulnerability and urgency, not first-come-first-served basis.
- High-priority candidates are matched with appropriate housing resources: permanent supportive housing, rapid rehousing, or Section 8 vouchers if available.
- Referrals flow directly to housing providers and PHAs, reducing duplication and wait time.
Relevance for Landlords and Tenants
For Section 8 landlords, coordinated entry affects your tenant pool. Referrals from coordinated entry systems typically include documented income verification, background information, and prioritization level, which streamlines your leasing process.
For voucher holders, coordinated entry determines your placement priority within the CoC. Tenants exiting the homeless response system often receive preference for available vouchers. Your vulnerability score and household composition influence both timing and availability of housing options.
Connection to PHA Operations
PHAs partner with coordinated entry to allocate housing choice vouchers efficiently. Some jurisdictions reserve a percentage of new vouchers specifically for individuals exiting the coordinated entry system. This integration helps PHAs meet HUD's goals around rapid rehousing while managing their overall caseload.
Common Questions
- Does coordinated entry guarantee I'll get a Section 8 voucher? No. Coordinated entry prioritizes you within the available resources in your CoC. Voucher availability depends on program funding and waitlist status in your PHA. High vulnerability scores increase your priority for available assistance.
- How long does the coordinated entry assessment take? Initial intake typically takes 30 to 60 minutes. Processing and referral placement can take several weeks depending on your CoC's capacity and current resource availability.
- Can I apply directly to my PHA if I've gone through coordinated entry? Rules vary by PHA. Some require coordinated entry participation before Section 8 eligibility if you're homeless or exiting homelessness. Contact your local PHA for specific requirements.