Understanding Utility Reimbursement Payments (URP)

Negative Rent?

If a tenant has very little income ($0 to $100/mo), their calculated tenant contribution (TTP) might be lower than the Utility Allowance.

How URP Works

Example:
Tenant TTP: $20
Utility Allowance: $75
Difference: -$55

In this case, the tenant pays $0 rent to the landlord. The PHA pays the landlord the full contract rent. ADDITIONALLY, the PHA (or sometimes the landlord, depending on local rules) issues a $55 check to the tenant or utility company to help cover the bills. This is the Utility Reimbursement Payment.