January 17, 2018, HUD published notice PIH 2018-01 (HA) providing instructions on implementing Small Area FMRs as well as other changes to FMRs, payment standards, and rent reasonableness analyses that apply to all PHAs with the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program. Small Area FMRs are FMRs that are calculated at the zip code level instead of the metropolitan level – which will decrease or increase rents depending on the area. While HUD decided to suspend implementation of small area FMRs back in August, a recent court decision reversed that.

PHAs that are required to implement Small Area FMRs are required to implement them as quickly as possible and no later than April 1, 2018.