We want to share an important update regarding the upcoming 2026 HMIS Data Standards that require your active review and planning. Typically, HUD releases the updated HMIS Data Standards well in advance of their October 1st effective date, allowing time for system updates, training, and community preparation. However, as of now, HUD has not yet released the finalized 2026 standards or implementation guidance. This delay directly impacts our ability to prepare the system and provide early support to agencies.
What You Need to Know
Submit Reports Early
If your agency has reports due to HUD or other funders around October 1st, we strongly encourage you to submit them as early as possible. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Annual Performance Reports (APR)
- Quarterly Performance Reports (QPR)
- PATH Annual Reports
- Runaway and Homeless Youth (RHY) Reports
- VA Repository Reports
Early submission will help avoid complications that may arise from system changes once the new standards are implemented.
Training & Support Timeline
We anticipate limited capacity to offer training or technical support prior to October 1st due to the delayed release of HUD’s guidance. We want to emphasize that we will begin preparing training and support materials as soon as the standards are published. There may be a short delay while we create these resources, but our goal is to ensure the community is well-supported and informed throughout the transition.
We will continue to monitor HUD communications closely and will share updates with you as soon as they become available. In the meantime, we ask that you review your agency’s reporting timelines and prepare accordingly.