What a payment standard is
In the Housing Choice Voucher program, the payment standard is the maximum monthly assistance a housing authority uses to calculate a family's subsidy for a given unit size. Each public housing agency (PHA) sets its own.
The basic range
PHAs generally set payment standards between 90% and 110% of the Fair Market Rent, or of the Small Area FMR where SAFMRs apply. With HUD approval, an agency can set an exception payment standard above that range in some areas.
How the tenant's share works
A voucher family generally pays about 30% of its adjusted monthly income toward rent and utilities, and the voucher pays the rest up to the payment standard. If the gross rent is above the payment standard, the family pays the difference. When a family first rents a unit, its share can't exceed 40% of adjusted monthly income.
Rent reasonableness
Separately, the PHA must find that the rent is reasonable compared with similar unassisted units nearby. A rent can be within the payment standard and still need to pass this check.
Use the range as a starting point
Aeonis Rent Check shows 90% to 110% of the FMR as the typical range. Your housing authority publishes its actual payment standards and makes the final decisions, so confirm with them.