Client intake is more than a form — it’s the first impression, the start of service delivery, and the foundation for accurate HMIS data. Done well, intake ensures clients are treated with dignity while agencies collect the information needed to deliver services, track outcomes, and maintain compliance with HUD and local requirements.

This course walks you through the client intake process step by step, blending practical system navigation with the “why” behind each field. You’ll learn how to avoid common mistakes, collect data ethically, and enter information in a way that strengthens both client trust and community reporting.

What You’ll Learn

• The purpose of intake and its role in the client journey
• Step-by-step guidance through required HMIS intake fields
• How to explain forms, assessments, and ROIs to clients clearly
• Common intake errors and how to avoid them
• Balancing compliance with dignity and respect for clients
• Practical system navigation tips to build intake confidence