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Section 8 guide

Moving with a Section 8 voucher (portability)

A Housing Choice Voucher is portable: you can use it anywhere in the U.S. where a housing authority runs the voucher program. The move takes paperwork between two agencies, so plan it ahead.

Agencies by state

Who can port

You can generally port if you are in good standing with your agency and are not breaking your lease. If you did not live in the agency's area when you applied, it can require you to rent there for the first 12 months before porting.

Steps to port your voucher

  1. Tell your current housing authority in writing that you want to move and where.
  2. Give your landlord proper notice under your lease (or move at the end of the lease).
  3. Your agency sends your file to the housing authority that serves the new area (the receiving agency).
  4. Contact the receiving agency quickly: it schedules a briefing and gives you a voucher with its own search deadline.
  5. Find a unit; it must pass the receiving agency's inspection before the lease starts.

What can change

The receiving agency recertifies your income and uses its own payment standards and subsidy standards (how many bedrooms your household gets). Your share of the rent can go up or down. Check the Fair Market Rent of the new area before you decide.

Absorb or bill

The receiving agency either "absorbs" you into its own program or bills your original agency for the assistance. For you, the difference is mostly administrative, but it can affect timing. Ask both agencies how long the transfer usually takes.

Frequently asked questions

Can I move to another state with Section 8?

Yes. Portability works across states, as long as a housing authority administers vouchers in the area you move to.

How long does a portability transfer take?

Often several weeks. Start the process before your lease ends and stay in contact with both agencies.

Can I port a public housing unit?

No. Portability only applies to Section 8 vouchers. To live in public housing elsewhere you must apply at that agency.

More Section 8 guides

How to apply for Section 8Step by step, from finding your agency to the briefing.Section 8 waiting listsHow lists open, preferences and how to check your status.Section 8 eligibility requirementsIncome, citizenship, background and household rules.Documents you need to applyThe checklist housing authorities ask for.How Section 8 rent is calculatedThe 30% rule, payment standards and utility allowances.Public housing vs. Section 8Which program fits you and how each one works.Section 8 inspection checklistWhat inspectors check before you can move in.

Official sources: 24 CFR Part 982 (Section 8 tenant-based assistance) · HUD: Housing Choice Voucher Program · HUD USER: Fair Market Rents. Written and reviewed by Agustin Mendez. How we check the information.