You do not have access to the account during the program. Your housing authority manages the account for you.

The only way to add to your FSS escrow account is through an increase in income from work. When your rent increases, you will still pay your new, higher rent to your housing authority, but that increase in rent will also be credited to your account.

You cannot use the account for emergencies. You can, however, request an interim disbursement during the program if you plan to use the money to make progress on one of the goals you have outlined in your contract.

You do not have to complete the full five years, but you do need to complete the graduation requirements to receive the money in your savings. If you’ve completed all graduation requirements before your contract term is up, you can request an early graduation.

There are three requirements you must meet to graduate from the program. First, you’ll need to be employed at the time of graduation. Second, all household members will need to be free of cash welfare assistance for at least 12 months prior to graduation. Finally, you must have completed the goals you set during the program.

Yes, heads of household who are not currently employed are allowed – and encouraged – to join the program. To join the program, you must be willing to seek employment since it is a graduation requirement.

No, when you successfully complete the program, you may keep your rental assistance if you still need it. If you do not graduate from the program, you also will not lose your voucher or public housing unit.

No, during the program, money is only taken out of your escrow account when you request an interim disbursement to make progress toward one of your goals. When your income changes and you recertify with the housing authority your monthly escrow credit will change, but no money will be withdrawn from the account.