Q&A: Disability Verification

Question:  I just had an applicant ask an interesting question that I could not find the answer for.  Who needs to fill out the Disability Verification form?  Can a Nurse Practitioner do it?  Does it have to be an MD?  Can it be a DO, or a PsyD or PhD depending upon the disability?   Nowhere on HUD’s sample verification form does it ask for a license number or anything of that sort.  Should I be getting a copy of licensure with the verification?  ~ Lynne in Florida

Answer:  According to the 4350.3, 3-28(B), the form should go to a source “including but not limited to the individual’s physician, care worker of the elderly, social worker, psychiatrist or Veterans Administration.”  Appendix 3 says notes Verification of Disability Status should be obtained from a “medical professional”.

Some management companies add a paragraph to the Sample Verification in Appendix 6-B that says something like, “I agree to testify as to the truth of these statements in a court of law if necessary”, to ensure that the person verifying the disability takes it seriously.  If you believe that a source isn’t licensed, you can ask for a copy of the licensure, but you’re not required to on a routine basis.