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Participate in HMIS

Step-by-step instructions for new provider agencies in Sacramento and Yolo Counties to become HMIS-participating organizations.

Here's what it means to be an HMIS-participating agency:

HMIS is a secure database used by partner agencies to document services, enroll clients, and share data that strengthens our region’s homelessness response. As an HMIS-participating agency, you will be part of that system by contributing data from your agency’s work with those at risk of or experiencing homelessness. The system will also allow your agency to better understand a person’s full service history and more easily coordinate with other agencies.

If your agency is not yet part of HMIS, this page guides you through the process to join. Before any staff can participate, your agency must:

  • Sign agreements with Sacramento Steps Forward.
  • Complete required security and compliance steps.
  • Set up at least one program in HMIS.


If you are looking for services for yourself or a client, visit our Access Support page.

If your agency is already active in HMIS and looking to make updates, visit our Update Your Agency’s HMIS Information page.

Ready to participate in HMIS?

Step 1: Submit Agency Request

  • Form: HMIS Agency Request
  • Purpose: Officially start the process of becoming an HMIS-participating agency.
  • Who completes it: CEO or other administrative staff.

Step 2: Complete Security Audit Checklist

  • Form: HMIS Security Audit Checklist
  • Purpose: Confirm your agency meets all HMIS data security and compliance requirements before participation begins.
  • Who completes it: CEO or other administrative staff.

Step 3: Request Your Program(s)

Step 4: Meet with HMIS Team

Once forms are submitted, the HMIS team will schedule a meeting to:

  • Review your program setup.
  • Confirm training needs and security compliance.
  • Outline next steps for onboarding your staff.

Step 5: Add and Train Staff

  • Supervisors submit the HMIS Access Request Form for each staff member.
  • Staff complete HMIS training and quiz within two weeks of receiving materials.
  • Staff must pass the quiz before login credentials are issued.

Step 6: Finalize Staff Participation

Upon first login (within 72 hours), staff complete the HMIS End User Agreement found in the portal shared with you.

Step 7: Update Bed Count and Housing Inventory Regularly

  • Form: HMIS Housing Inventory Request
  • Purpose: If your agency operates a housing program, confirm your bed count and housing inventory quarterly and as needed.
  • Why it matters: Accurate inventory allows us to refer clients to your program efficiently and ensures your housing utilization data reflects your actual capacity, and doesn’t reflect poorly on the good work you are doing.
Learn about the ways to access support with this process.

Have questions or need Support?

For general HMIS support, system access questions, or help with data entry and reporting, reach out to us using the form below.

Note: Please do not include personally identifiable information (PII) in emails or when you submit a question below. Use the HMIS Unique Identifier instead.

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