As a landlord, how do I access the direct deposit system for Housing Assistance Payments?

Effective July 1, 2010, Housing Works will be switching to direct deposit for Housing Assistance Payments (HAP). A direct deposit sign-up sheet will need to be signed and returned to the Housing Works office prior to the July 1st HAP payment. If a landlord has already submitted a direct deposit from they do not need to send in another form.

After signing up for direct deposit, Housing Assistance Payments will be electronically deposited into the landlord's checking or savings account each month. No change to the landlord's present banking relationship is necessary for this service.

The new online payment system is called HMS PAL.

Beginning July 1, landlords will be provided online access with up to 18 months of payment history, current year-to-date totals, and tenant payment details, including tenant addresses. The most current direct deposit payment data will be available online on the day following the processing of the housing assistance payment.

To access the HMS PAL online system, go to the following web site: www.hmsforweb.com/pal. Instructions on how to log in are provided on the login page of the web site.