How to Use Housing Choice Vouchers to Move Counties in California

If you're a California renter with a Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8), you may be considering moving to a new county so you can secure better housing, access needed services, or be closer to family. California law and federal rules allow eligible renters to transfer their vouchers between counties — a process called "portability." This guide explains how portability works, the forms you'll need, and which agencies to contact for support.

Understanding Voucher Portability in California

Housing Choice Vouchers, commonly known as Section 8, are federally funded and administered by local Public Housing Agencies (PHAs). In California, renters can transfer their vouchers to a new county using the portability process, under the oversight of their local PHA and following federal HUD guidelines.^[1]

What is Portability?

Portability means you can move your assistance from one jurisdiction to another within California or even out of state. The PHA that issued your voucher is known as the "initial PHA," and the PHA where you want to move is the "receiving PHA."

• You must generally live in your current PHA’s area for at least 12 months before porting your voucher.
• Portability helps you access safer neighborhoods, jobs, schools, or medical providers.

Steps to Move Your Voucher to Another County

The voucher portability process can take several weeks. Following these steps will help you avoid delays:

• Contact your current (initial) PHA: Inform them you want to move and start the portability process.
• Complete any local exit or move-out forms required by your PHA.
• Your PHA will provide the Portability Request Form or equivalent paperwork. In practice, most use local versions, but all must comply with HUD Form 52665: Family Portability Information.^[2]
• The initial PHA sends your voucher information to the receiving county's PHA.
• The receiving PHA contacts you with next steps, such as a briefing and local paperwork.

Official Forms for Portability

• HUD Form 52665: Family Portability Information
  • When used: Your current PHA completes this when you request portability.
  • How it works: The form provides your details to the receiving PHA for voucher processing.
  • Download HUD Form 52665 (official HUD site)
• PHA Portability Request Forms
  • When used: Often required at the time of your official portability request to your local PHA.
  • Example: The Los Angeles County Development Authority and the San Francisco Housing Authority each use their own versions, available directly from their portals or offices (LACDA Portability | SFHA Portability).
  • Ask your caseworker for the latest local form, as requirements can differ by PHA.

What to Expect After Submitting Your Request

The receiving PHA will contact you after receiving your packet. They’ll provide an orientation and help you understand their local rules, payment standards, and any additional forms required. Housing search times and deadlines will vary by county, so communicate promptly with both your old and new agencies.

Tip: Keep copies of all forms and communications. Changes in county may affect payment amounts and availability — check the new county’s PHA website for details.

Key Rights and Protections Under California Law

Your rights as a voucher holder are protected by both federal law and California tenant laws, specifically those under the California Civil Code - Tenant Protections.^[3] In addition:

• No landlord in California can refuse to rent to you because you use a Housing Choice Voucher (state source of income anti-discrimination law).
• Portability does not guarantee housing in the new county, but it does mean your assistance travels with you if you find qualified housing.

California Housing Authority Contacts and Legal Oversight

California's PHAs administer voucher programs locally, and the main tribunal for landlord-tenant matters is the California Superior Court Housing Division. For voucher disputes, also use HUD resources or your local PHA's grievance policy.

• Find all California PHAs (official HUD list)
• File a discrimination complaint (California Civil Rights Department)

FAQ: Moving Vouchers Between California Counties

1. Can I move my Section 8 voucher right after getting it?
   Usually, you must live in your current county for 12 months before transferring (or "porting") your voucher.
2. What if my new county’s payment standard is lower or higher?
   Your voucher payment may adjust depending on the new county's rent limits. Ask the receiving PHA for estimates before moving.
3. Does my landlord have to let me break my lease if I want to move counties?
   You must follow your lease. Speak with your PHA and landlord—moving early may have penalties unless you are at the end of your agreement or your lease allows early termination.
4. How long does voucher portability take?
   It can take several weeks, so start paperwork early and stay in touch with both PHAs.
5. Who do I call for help with portability questions?
   Contact your current PHA first, or use the official HUD field office locator if you need federal assistance.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for California Renters

• You can move your Section 8 voucher between California counties after 12 months’ residency.
• Use HUD Form 52665 and any local PHA request forms to start the process.
• Always communicate with both your current and destination PHAs to avoid delays or lost assistance.

With good planning and by using the right official resources, you can securely transfer your housing assistance if you need to relocate within California.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• HUD Form 52665: Family Portability Information (official form)
• California Public Housing Authority Directory (official HUD)
• California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH)
• California Superior Court Housing Division (residential disputes)

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1. [1] HUD Housing Choice Voucher Program Fact Sheet
2. [2] HUD Form 52665: Family Portability Information
3. [3] California Civil Code - Tenant Protections

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