HOC’s 2026 schedule lists different standards by ZIP code. The HOC Housing Choice Voucher page says its standards are based on HUD Small Area Fair Market Rents and that ZIP codes each have their own values. Use the exact address ZIP and the voucher bedroom size when you review the table.
The number that matters, and the limit of what it says
HOC defines its Voucher Payment Standard as the maximum Housing Assistance Payment contribution it can make on behalf of a voucher customer for a given unit size. The calculation of approved rent and the household’s rent share also depends on the household, utilities, proposed rent, program rules and HOC’s unit review.
What utilities and rent review change
A two-bedroom payment standard is not the market rent ceiling for every two-bedroom listing in the county. Household share, utilities, the current HOC schedule, rent reasonableness and unit approval all matter. A higher or lower advertised rent cannot be assessed from the payment standard alone. Ask HOC to calculate a specific unit before relying on an estimate.
What the authority checks
Choose HOC in the Foxx Voucher Home Finder, select the ZIP and voucher bedroom size, then use the live rental listing search to filter Housing Choice Voucher = Yes, number of bedrooms, baths, ZIP and rent. The listing search helps identify options; it does not reserve a home or establish that HOC will approve it.
Use an area-by-area search
HOC’s current HCV information includes payment standard links, utility allowance information and an explanation of the voucher program. Contact HOC to confirm the latest schedule, an address-specific calculation, portability and the required paperwork.
Get clear on local requirements
The 2026 standards are an orientation tool, not a guarantee of eligibility, subsidy or unit approval. HOC makes those decisions. Tenise can help organize your Maryland rental search and prepare landlord questions.
Talk through the next step
Tenise Foxx provides Maryland real estate guidance and placement support. Share the area, bedrooms and timing you are considering; do not send sensitive documents through the initial inquiry form.
Information checked October 2026. Program standards and agency instructions can change. Confirm current details with the housing authority.