How to Use Housing Vouchers to Move to Another County in Arkansas

Looking to move with your Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) within Arkansas? Arkansas renters wanting more affordable housing or a better fit for their family can use a process called “portability” to move between counties. This article explains, in simple terms, how Arkansas voucher holders can relocate using their housing voucher, including required paperwork, legal protections, and where to turn for help.

Understanding Voucher Portability in Arkansas

The Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program allows renters to select their own housing, as long as it meets program requirements. One key benefit is portability, which means you can transfer your voucher to a different county, even if that means working with a new local housing agency.

If you receive voucher assistance from an Arkansas Public Housing Agency (PHA), you may have the right to move to another city or county—provided you follow the correct steps. Below, you'll find the process, official forms, and resources.

Eligibility and Key Requirements

• You must have lived in your current PHA’s area for at least 12 months, unless your original voucher was from outside the county.
• You must be in good standing with your PHA (not owing money, not breaking the lease).
• The new county must have a Housing Choice Voucher program (most Arkansas counties do).

If you meet these criteria, you may start the portability process.

How to Transfer Your Voucher: Step-by-Step

Moving with a Section 8 voucher requires communication between your current PHA and the PHA in the county where you plan to move. Here’s what to expect:

1. Notify your current PHA (for example, the Arkansas Housing Agency Directory) in writing of your intent to move and use your voucher elsewhere.
2. Complete the Request for Portability Transfer form. The name and format may vary—your current PHA will provide it. Example: "Housing Choice Voucher Portability Request."
   Use case: Jane has lived in Pulaski County for 12 months and wishes to relocate to Benton County. She submits this request to her current PHA.
   Contact your PHA’s office or visit its website for the exact form.
3. Your current PHA will contact the PHA in the destination county, sharing your eligibility and paperwork.
4. The receiving PHA will contact you to schedule an interview and explain local rules, utility allowances, payment standards, and offer a list of available rentals. You may be asked to complete a new Voucher Application as well.
5. Find and lease a qualifying rental unit in the new county. The landlord must agree to accept vouchers, and the unit must pass a HUD Housing Quality Standards inspection.
6. Sign the lease and required PHA agreements. Your voucher will then become active for your new home.

Key Forms You May Need

• HUD Form 52665: Family Portability Information
  Used to transfer your information between PHAs.
  Download HUD-52665 (official).
  Example: When transferring from Little Rock Housing Authority to Washington County, this form ensures your eligibility records follow you.
• PHA-specific Portability Transfer Request (name and number vary)
  Initiates your move. Always request this directly from your current PHA office or website.
  Arkansas PHA Directory.

Your Rights and Legal Protections

As a voucher holder, your rights are protected under federal law (the U.S. Housing Act of 1937) and Arkansas law. Discrimination against voucher holders in Arkansas is prohibited in some circumstances, and you may appeal a denial of portability rights. Review your notification paperwork carefully, as you may be entitled to a hearing before your PHA if portability is denied.

All Arkansas rental tenancies must also comply with Arkansas Circuit Courts for disputes, and are subject to the Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (see § 18-17-101 et seq.).

What If You Face an Issue?

If your move is delayed, or your voucher transfer is denied, you may request an informal hearing with your PHA. Your notification letter should include instructions on how to request this hearing. If your rights continue to be denied, you may appeal to your county's Circuit Court or seek help from local legal aid services.

FAQ

1. Can I move with my voucher right away?
   Usually, you must live in your PHA’s area for at least 12 months before transferring. Some special exceptions may apply for safety or hardship cases.
2. Will my rent change if I move to another county?
   Maybe. Each county’s PHA sets its own payment standards based on local housing costs. The receiving PHA will explain your new rent portion and maximum allowance.
3. Do all landlords have to accept vouchers?
   Not always in Arkansas. There’s no statewide law requiring landlords to accept vouchers, but some local ordinances may offer protections. Always check with the destination county’s rules.
4. What happens if my new unit fails inspection?
   The landlord must make required repairs. Your voucher cannot be used until the unit passes the HUD inspection standards.
5. Who oversees rental disputes in Arkansas?
   The Arkansas Circuit Courts handle residential tenancy disputes, including issues related to housing vouchers.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• You have the right to transfer your voucher (after 12 months), but you must follow both your current and future PHA’s procedures.
• Always notify your PHA early and complete the required forms (like HUD-52665 and your PHA’s transfer request).
• If you encounter problems, request an informal hearing or contact Arkansas legal resources for support.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Find your Arkansas Housing Agency (PHA Directory)
• HUD Arkansas Renting and Housing Assistance
• Legal Aid of Arkansas: offers free legal advice for eligible renters
• Arkansas Circuit Courts: for tenancy hearings and appeals
• Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (state tenancy legislation)

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1. HUD: Housing Choice Voucher Portability
2. Arkansas Housing Agency Directory
3. Arkansas Residential Landlord-Tenant Act (Title 18, Chapter 17)
4. Arkansas Circuit Courts
5. HUD Form 52665 Family Portability Information

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