Transferring a Section 8 Voucher to Another State
Moving to a new state can be both exciting and challenging. If you’re a Section 8 housing voucher holder planning to relocate, you need to follow specific steps to ensure your housing assistance continues without interruption. This guide will walk you through the entire process of transferring your Section 8 voucher across state lines.
What Is a Section 8 Housing Voucher?
The Housing Choice Voucher Program (commonly known as Section 8) is a federal program managed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). It helps low-income families, elderly individuals, and people with disabilities afford decent, safe housing in the private market.
Under this program, participants receive vouchers that cover a portion of their rent, allowing them to choose any housing that meets program requirements. The government pays the subsidy directly to the landlord, while the family pays the difference between the actual rent and the amount subsidized.
To qualify for Section 8 assistance, families must meet income eligibility requirements and other criteria set by local Public Housing Agencies (PHAs).
Step-by-Step Guide to Transferring Your Section 8 Voucher
1. Contact Your Current Housing Authority
The first step is notifying your current housing authority about your intention to move. This is called “porting” your voucher to another location.
Important timing note: Start this process at least 60-90 days before your planned move date. According to HUD’s housing portal, voucher transfers typically take 4-6 weeks to process, but can take longer depending on the housing authorities involved.
When you contact your housing authority, they will:
- Verify your eligibility for transfer
- Check if you have any outstanding debts or lease violations
- Confirm you’ve lived in your current jurisdiction for at least 12 months (a common requirement)
2. Understand the Portability Rules
Before proceeding, make sure you meet the basic requirements for transfer:
- You must have been receiving HUD assistance for at least one year
- You must be in good standing with your current PHA
- You cannot have any outstanding debts to your current PHA
- You must not be under eviction or have violated your lease terms
Victims of domestic violence may be exempt from some of these requirements under the Violence Against Women Act protections.
3. Notify Your Current Landlord
Once you’ve confirmed your eligibility to transfer, inform your landlord about your plans to move. Review your lease agreement carefully, as it outlines the conditions for ending your tenancy.
Most leases require:
- Written notice (typically 30-60 days before moving)
- Proper documentation of your intent to vacate
Your current PHA will provide a transfer packet with forms that require your landlord’s signature. Remember that you cannot transfer your voucher if your current lease is still active unless your landlord agrees to release you from the contract.
For more information about landlord interactions, check out How To Become A Section 8 Landlord.
4. Verify Your New Location’s PHA
Not all areas have PHAs that accept incoming vouchers. Before finalizing your moving plans, verify that the city or county you’re moving to:
- Has a PHA that accepts portable vouchers
- Has available vouchers (some PHAs have waiting lists)
- Accepts the voucher amount you currently receive (payment standards vary by location)
You can find a list of PHAs by state on the HUD PHA contact information page.
5. Gather Required Documentation
Your current PHA will need to send a portability packet to your new PHA. Prepare the following documents:
- HUD-52665 (Family Portability Information form)
- HUD-50058 (Family Report form)
- Birth certificates for all family members
- Social Security cards and photo IDs
- Income verification documents
- Current lease agreement
- Voucher documentation
Ensuring all forms are correctly filled out and submitted will prevent delays in your transfer process. The National Housing Law Project offers helpful resources for navigating this documentation.
6. Connect with Your New Housing Authority
Once your current PHA forwards your portability packet, your new PHA will contact you to:
- Schedule an intake appointment
- Potentially conduct a background check
- Explain local program rules and requirements
- Issue a voucher valid in their jurisdiction
Some PHAs may require you to attend an orientation session or briefing before issuing a new voucher. If you’re wondering about your application status, learn How Do I Confirm That My Section 8 Application Is on the Wait-List?
7. Find a New Home
With your new voucher in hand, you can begin your housing search. Remember that:
- The home must meet HUD’s Housing Quality Standards
- The rent must be reasonable for the area
- The landlord must be willing to accept Section 8 vouchers
Helpful resources for finding Section 8-friendly housing include:
- Affordable Housing Online
- GoSection8.com
- Local PHA websites
- HUD Resource Locator
For answers to common questions about affordable housing, check out Affordable Housing Common Q & A.
8. Request Housing Inspection
Once you’ve found a suitable home and the landlord has agreed to participate in the program, notify your new PHA. They will:
- Schedule an inspection to ensure the property meets safety and quality standards
- Review the lease agreement
- Determine if the rent is reasonable for the area
According to the National Low Income Housing Coalition, housing inspections typically take 7-10 business days to complete.
9. Sign Your New Lease
After the home passes inspection and rent is approved:
- Sign a lease with your new landlord
- Provide a copy to your new PHA
- The PHA will execute a Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) contract with the landlord
Remember that your portion of the rent may change based on the payment standards in your new location.
Special Considerations
Payment Standards Differences
Payment standards (the maximum amount a PHA will pay) vary by location. When moving to a higher-cost area, your portion of the rent may increase. Conversely, moving to a lower-cost area might decrease your portion.
Additional Family Members
If you plan to add someone to your household during the move, make sure to inform both housing authorities. Learn more about How to Add Someone to Your Section 8 Voucher.
Disability Accommodations
If you or a family member has a disability, you may be eligible for additional accommodations during the transfer process. Check out HUD Housing Programs for the Disabled and Section 811 Housing Assistance for Disabled for more information.
Emergency Situations
In cases of domestic violence, natural disasters, or medical emergencies, expedited transfers may be possible. Learn more about How to Apply for Emergency Section 8.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Challenge: Delays in Processing
Solution: Start the process early, follow up regularly with both PHAs, and keep copies of all submitted documents.
Challenge: Different Voucher Rules
Solution: Request a briefing from your new PHA to understand local regulations and requirements.
Challenge: Finding Accepting Landlords
Solution: Work with housing counselors at your new PHA who can provide lists of landlord partners.
Challenge: Higher Rent Standards
Solution: Before moving, research the payment standards in your new location and budget accordingly.
What is Section 8 portability and why would I need to transfer my voucher?
Portability allows you to move your Section 8 (Housing Choice Voucher) across different jurisdictions. You may need to transfer if you’re relocating for a new job, family reasons, or seeking a different housing market.
Do I have to reapply with the new Public Housing Agency (PHA)?
Not exactly. Your current PHA will send a “portability packet” with your details to the new PHA, which will typically require an intake process. If you meet their guidelines, they’ll issue a voucher valid in their area without a full reapplication.
How can I break my lease or inform my landlord that I’m moving?
Review your lease agreement for notice requirements (often 30–60 days). Then provide written notice to your landlord. Make sure you follow your PHA’s procedures—especially if your lease hasn’t ended yet. (For landlord details, see How To Become A Section 8 Landlord .)
Will my voucher amount change when I move to a new state?
It can. Different areas have different payment standards based on local rents. Moving to a high-cost area might mean you pay more out of pocket; a lower-cost area could mean you pay less. (Check out Income Eligibility for Section 8 for more on budget calculations.)
Can I add new family members while transferring my voucher?
Yes, but you must inform both your current and new PHA. Any added household member must meet eligibility requirements. (Learn more in How to Add Someone to Your Section 8 Voucher .)
What if I have an emergency or disability that requires a faster transfer?
Some PHAs can expedite transfers if you’re facing domestic violence (VAWA protections), medical needs, or other emergencies. (Read more at HUD Housing Programs for the Disabled or How to Apply for Emergency Section 8 .)
What if I can’t find a landlord who accepts vouchers in the new area?
Check rental listing sites, ask your new PHA for landlord contacts, or look for ads referencing Section 8. If you’re struggling, Affordable Housing Common Q & A has more tips for locating voucher-friendly rentals.
How can I track my application or waitlist status with the new PHA?
Ask the new PHA if they have an online portal or contact them by phone. (Details at How Do I Confirm That My Section 8 Application Is on the Wait-List? .)
Conclusion
Transferring your Section 8 voucher to another state requires careful planning and patience. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure a smoother transition to your new home. Remember to communicate clearly with both housing authorities throughout the process and keep all documentation organized.
For more detailed information about public housing options, check out Applying for Public Housing Help and How to Apply for Section 202.
With proper preparation, you can successfully transfer your housing assistance and enjoy a fresh start in your new location.