What is the difference between project start date and housing move-in date?
Author: Betty | Date Created: July 21, 2025 | Date Updated: July 21, 2025
What this is
In HMIS, two important dates often cause confusion: the Project Start Date and the Housing Move-in Date (HMID). Here's a quick explanation of what each one means and why they matter.
Quick summary
| Term | What It Means | Example Date |
|---|---|---|
| Project Start Date | When client starts receiving services | July 1 |
| Housing Move-in Date | When client actually moves into housing | August 10 |
Project Start Date
The Project Start Date is the date when a client begins receiving services from a housing program. This could include case management, assessments, or other support. It marks the client’s official entry into the project.
Example: A client is enrolled in a Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) program on July 1. Even if they don’t have housing yet, the Project Start Date is July 1.
Housing Move-in Date
Housing Move in Date (HMID) is collected only by permanent housing projects (RRH, PSH, PH S, PH HO). For clients in a Transitional housing (TH) project, the enrollment date (project start date) should be the day they move into the TH unit.
The Housing Move-in Date is the day a client physically moves into their housing unit. This applies only to housing projects like PSH or Rapid Re-Housing (RRH).
Example: If the same client moves into their apartment on August 10, then the Housing Move-in Date is August 10.
Why the Difference Matters
- It helps track how long it takes clients to get housed.
- It’s important for reporting and funding requirements.
- It shows whether a client is still homeless or housed.