Moving to Another Arizona County with a Rental Voucher

If you're an Arizona renter using a Housing Choice Voucher (commonly called Section 8) and want to move to a different county, you have the right to transfer your rental assistance under certain federal and state rules. Understanding the process and forms involved can make your move smoother and help protect your housing rights.

How Voucher Portability Works in Arizona

You can use the portability feature of your Housing Choice Voucher to move from one county to another within Arizona. This option is available if you meet the requirements set by your current Public Housing Agency (PHA) and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Portability is especially helpful for renters seeking better job prospects, school districts, or affordable housing options in a different area.

Eligibility to Move with Your Voucher

• You must have been living in your current PHA's jurisdiction for at least 12 months, unless you received your voucher while already living there.
• Your rent and other tenant responsibilities must be in good standing with your current landlord and PHA.
• If you are a new voucher holder, you generally need to use it in your current jurisdiction for the first 12 months.

Steps for Transferring Your Housing Choice Voucher

The main process is called "porting out." Here are the typical steps to successfully move your voucher to another Arizona county:

• Contact your current PHA to request voucher portability. Find your PHA using HUD's Arizona PHA contact tool.
• Complete the official portability request and notify your current PHA of your wish to move.
• Your PHA will send your paperwork (including your current voucher details) to the receiving PHA in your new county.
• Work with the receiving PHA to process the move, attend any required briefings, and search for a rental unit in the new county that meets voucher requirements.

It’s essential to keep in close communication with both the sending and receiving PHAs during this process to avoid interruption in your rental assistance.

Key Forms Used for Portability

• HUD Form 52665: Family Portability Information
  Used by your current PHA to officially transfer your voucher details to the receiving PHA.
  Example: You notify your current PHA and they complete and send this form to the agency serving the county you wish to move to.
  Download HUD Form 52665 (official source)
• Portability Request/Intent to Move Form
  This is an agency-specific form Arizona PHAs use to record your wish to move with your voucher. It typically involves stating your reason and your intended new location. Check with your local PHA for their specific form—for example, the City of Phoenix uses a Housing Choice Voucher Intent to Move form.

Additional documentation may be required based on your PHA's process, such as proof of residency or compliance with program rules.

Where to Get Support and Resolve Disputes

If you face issues, such as delays or difficulties with the transfer or feel your rights are not being respected, you can seek help from the Arizona Department of Housing or file a complaint. Formal disputes about vouchers and other tenant matters are handled by the Arizona Justice Courts, which oversee residential landlord-tenant issues in the state.

Your Rights and Responsibilities When Moving

As a voucher recipient:

• You must continue to comply with all lease and program rules before, during, and after your move.
• Your new rental unit must be inspected and approved by the receiving PHA before moving in.
• You cannot receive double assistance in both counties at the same time.

Arizona's residential tenancies are governed by the Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Title 33, Chapter 10). This act outlines both landlord and tenant rights, including how voucher tenants are protected when moving or facing changes to their lease agreements.

What to Expect After Moving

• The receiving PHA may have different payment standards, which can affect the size of the unit or the amount of subsidy you qualify for in the new county.
• You will need to sign a new lease and complete any required paperwork before your assistance resumes in the new location.

Be aware that some Arizona counties may have waiting lists or limited voucher availability, so staying in contact with both agencies can help avoid gaps in your rental assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I move anywhere in Arizona with my Section 8 voucher?
   Yes, as long as the PHA in your destination county participates in the voucher program and you meet the portability criteria.
2. Will my rental portion change if I move counties?
   It may change. The payment standard and rent by county can affect your portion, so always check with the receiving PHA for updated amounts.
3. How long does it take to transfer my voucher?
   The process can take several weeks or longer, depending on paperwork, inspections, and landlord cooperation.
4. Do I need to give notice to my current landlord before moving?
   Yes. You must provide written notice per your lease terms and coordinate with your PHA to ensure compliance.
5. Where can I find official Arizona housing forms and guidance?
   Visit the Arizona Department of Housing for forms and resources, or contact your local PHA directly.

Key Takeaways for Renters Transferring Vouchers

• You have the right to move to another Arizona county with your Housing Choice Voucher if you meet all requirements.
• The process requires communication between your current and new PHA, plus key forms for a successful transfer.
• Staying informed of your obligations under the Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act protects your rights as you move.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Arizona Department of Housing – State housing programs, voucher info, help line
• HUD Arizona PHA Directory – Find your local housing authority
• Arizona Justice Courts – Tenant-landlord dispute resolution
• AZLawHelp.org – Free legal information for renters

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1. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Portability Guidelines for the Housing Choice Voucher Program: HUD HCV Fact Sheet.
2. Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, Title 33, Chapter 10.
3. HUD Form 52665: Family Portability Information.
4. Arizona Department of Housing: Official State Portal.
5. Arizona Justice Courts Residential Tenancy: Arizona Courts Guide.

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