Family Self-Sufficiency Program
We believe in empowering families to reach their fullest potential. That’s why we offer the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program—a supportive program designed to help Housing Choice Voucher participants achieve financial independence and long-term stability.
What is the FSS program?
The FSS program is a voluntary initiative that connects families with resources to improve their skills, grow their income, and reduce dependency on government assistance. Whether you want to pursue a better job, further your education, or strengthen your financial future, the FSS program is here to guide you.
The FSS program is currently not accepting new applicants. If you’re interested in participating in the program, please speak with your housing specialist about the program for future consideration.
How the FSS Program Works
Your Path to a Brighter Future Starts Here
- Set Your Goals
When you join the program, you’ll work with an FSS Coordinator to create a personalized plan tailored to your aspirations. - Build Your Skills
You’ll have access to services like job training, education opportunities, and financial literacy courses to help you succeed. - Earn Escrow Savings
As your earned income increases, a portion of your rent subsidy is deposited into an escrow account—savings that will be yours when you successfully complete the program! - Celebrate Success
Once you achieve your goals, you’ll graduate from the program with new skills, financial stability, and the confidence to thrive independently.
Who Can Join the FSS Program?
The FSS program is available to participants in the Housing Choice Voucher program. In order to participate in the program, you must be able to seek and maintain employment. If you’re ready to take control of your future and work towards independence, this program is for you.
Why Join the FSS Program?
The Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program helps adults set goals and connect with essential services like education, job training, and financial literacy. While participation is voluntary, it offers significant benefits, including the chance to save money as your income grows. Graduates often exit rental assistance and sometimes even become homeowners. Escrow savings, averaging $6,000, can support future investments in emergencies, education, or homeownership.
- Achieve Financial Freedom
Gain the tools to increase your income and manage your finances effectively. - Build Savings
Accumulate savings through the escrow account to support your long-term goals. - Access Resources
Benefit from partnerships with local organizations offering job training, education, and more. - Gain Support
Work with a dedicated FSS Coordinator who will support and guide you throughout your journey.
Ready to take the first step? Contact us to learn more about the Family Self-Sufficiency program and how it can help you achieve your goals.
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Other Frequently Asked Questions
How does the FSS savings account work?
When you enroll in the program, ATCOG sets up and manages a FSS savings account for you. An increase in your rent because of an increase in earnings from work will result in a credit to your account.
Do I have access to the escrow account anytime? Who manages this account?
You do not have direct access to the account during the program. ATCOG manages the account for you. You can request funds from the account during the program for specific expenses related to your financial goals. For example, you can request funds to help you build credit, pay down debt, enroll in job training/education, or purchase a home. After you graduate from the FSS program, you receive a check for all the funds in the account and can use the funds for any purpose.
Can I add to the FSS Savings Account?
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, but that increase in rent will also be credited to your account.
Do I have to complete all five years of the program?
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 escrow account. If you’ve completed all graduation requirements before your contract term is up, you can request an early graduation.
What are the graduation requirements?
There are three requirements to graduate from the program. First, you’ll need to be suitably employed at the time of graduation. Second, all household members will need to be free of cash welfare assistance at the time of graduation. Finally, you must have completed the goals you set during the program.
What if I need more time to successfully complete the program?
If you need more time to complete the program, you can request an extension of up to two years depending on the circumstances. For example, if you have an unexpected health issue, sudden job loss, or need more time to accomplish your goals, you can request an extension.
What if I don’t complete my goals during my contract time period?
To graduate and receive your escrow account funds, you will need to complete your goals. That said, you will be working with your FSS coordinator throughout the program to create and change goals as your interests and circumstances change.
Am I eligible to join the program if I’m unemployed?
Yes, participants 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.
Will I lose my housing assistance by joining the FSS program?
No, when you successfully complete the program, you may keep your rental assistance if you still need it. If you don’t graduate from the program, you also will not lose your housing assistance.
What happens if I lose my housing assistance while participating in the program?
Unfortunately, if you lose or give up your housing assistance while enrolled in FSS, you can no longer participate in the program. Depending on the circumstances, you may be eligible for an early graduation.
If I am not working, but have a member of my household who is working, does that income count toward my FSS escrow account?
Yes, any increase in earnings from work that affects your household rent will contribute to your FSS escrow account. That also means any earned income in your household when you enroll in the program will be included in the starting income on your contract.
If my rent decreases, is money taken out of my FSS escrow account?
No, during the program, money is only taken out of your FSS escrow account when you request an interim disbursement to make progress toward one of your goals. When your income decreases, your monthly credit will change, but no money will be withdrawn from the account.
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The Ark-Tex Council of Government does business in accordance with the Federal Fair Housing Law (The Fair Housing Amendments Act of 1988). It is illegal to discriminate against any person because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin in the sale or rental of housing or residential lots; in advertising the sale or rental of housing; in the financing of housing; in the provision of real estate brokerage services; in the appraisal of housing; and blockbusting is also illegal. Anyone who feels he or she has been discriminated against may file a complaint of housing discrimination: 1-800-669-9777 (Toll Free), 1-800-927-9275 (TTY), or online at www.hud.gov/fairhousing.