The Department of Housing and Urban Development has ordered a nationwide review of citizenship verification after an internal audit revealed ineligible tenants living in taxpayer-funded housing. The findings raised concerns about weak enforcement of federal eligibility rules and the misuse of public housing resources. Federal officials moved quickly to tighten oversight following the report.
The audit found that some public housing authorities failed to properly verify citizenship or immigration status as required by law. Federal housing assistance is restricted to U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens, yet documentation was often missing or insufficient. In some cases, housing agencies relied on self-reported information rather than verified records.
Department of Housing and Urban Development directed local housing authorities to conduct immediate eligibility reviews and report their findings. HUD officials stressed that limited housing assistance must be reserved for qualified applicants. The agency also instructed providers to strengthen verification procedures to prevent future violations.
The audit concluded that improper housing assistance has cost taxpayers millions of dollars. Officials noted that housing shortages and long waitlists are made worse when units are occupied by individuals who do not meet eligibility standards. Lawful residents seeking assistance often face extended delays as a result of improper placements.
Office of Inspector General conducted the review and cited long-standing compliance failures. Investigators found that oversight varied widely across jurisdictions, with some housing authorities failing to follow basic federal requirements. The report recommended stricter audits, improved documentation standards, and enforcement measures for agencies that remain out of compliance.
HUD warned that continued violations could lead to funding consequences for local housing authorities. Federal officials emphasized that citizenship verification is a legal requirement tied to taxpayer accountability. The issue has renewed debate over immigration enforcement and access to public benefits as housing affordability remains a pressing national concern.
