New Federal Policies Expand Housing Voucher Eligibility for Homeless Veterans in San Diego County

New federal policies are set to expand eligibility for the Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH) program in San Diego County, aiming to assist more homeless veterans. The changes include excluding service-related disability payments from income calculations and raising the income eligibility threshold from 50% to 80% of the area median income.

“These adjustments are a major victory,” said U.S. Democratic Rep. Mike Levin at a press conference in Encinitas. Previously, veterans with disability income were often excluded from housing assistance despite living in tents near newly built housing projects.

The latest count revealed 544 homeless veterans in the county, marking a third consecutive year of increases. Despite the usefulness of VASH vouchers, many have gone unused due to the competitive housing market. Efforts are underway to improve voucher distribution, including a $20 million allocation for recruiting landlords and covering security deposits.

Peter Hunter from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development emphasized that veterans deserve more than gratitude—they need tangible support. The policy changes, effective Tuesday, are expected to increase voucher eligibility nationwide.

Isaac Estevez, a veteran who faced homelessness, shared how VASH and supportive services helped him find stability and transform his life.