Understanding and Navigating Federal Definitions of Homelessness

This NCHE brief explores the different federal definitions of homelessness used by the U.S. Department of Education, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), explaining eligibility criteria, age parameters, and authorized role groups for determining eligibility across programs. This brief can help local liaisons make appropriate referrals, navigate complex eligibility requirements, and collaborate effectively across systems. You can also view the companion on-demand webinar entitled “Understanding and Navigating Federal Definitions of Homelessness,” which walks viewers through key content from the brief.