Moving to Another County Using Housing Vouchers in DC

If you're a renter in the District of Columbia (DC) and rely on Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8), you may wonder if you can use your voucher to move to another county. DC renters often seek new homes in nearby Maryland or Virginia. This guide explains how "portability" works for voucher holders, which official forms you'll need, and where to get help with the process.

Understanding Portability: Using Vouchers Beyond DC

The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program, also known as Section 8, helps low-income renters pay rent in privately-owned homes. In DC, the District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) manages these vouchers. A key feature of HCV is portability: eligible renters can transfer their voucher to another jurisdiction, like a neighboring county in Maryland or Virginia.

Who Is Eligible to Transfer?

• You must have an active Housing Choice Voucher through DCHA.
• Your lease in DC must be complete (usually 12 months unless your landlord allows an early move).
• You must be in good standing: no serious lease violations or unpaid debts to DCHA.

Always confirm your eligibility with your DCHA caseworker before planning a move.

Key Steps to Port Your Voucher

Moving with your voucher involves several official steps. Here’s an overview of how you can transfer your assistance to another county:

• Notify the District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) in writing of your intent to move using the official form.
• Meet with your caseworker to discuss your move and receive required paperwork.
• Identify the Public Housing Agency (PHA) in your destination county; you’ll need to coordinate with them for approval.
• Submit all required verification and release forms.
• Keep in contact with both agencies during the transfer process.

Official Forms You’ll Need

• Transfer Request/Intent to Vacate Form
  When to use: When you decide to move, submit this to DCHA. This notifies them of your plan and starts the portability process.
  Find the Intent to Vacate/Porting Request Form here (on the DCHA Move Process page).
• Housing Choice Voucher Program Portability Packet
  When to use: Your DCHA coordinator will provide this packet after you submit your intent to port. It contains information you need for the receiving PHA.
  Portability Packet details from DCHA.
• Release of Information Consent Form (HUD-9886)
  When to use: You may be asked to complete this form so agencies can share required information.
  Download HUD Form 9886 from HUD.gov.

Action Steps to Move with Your Voucher

Before you move out, follow these steps to protect your rental assistance:

1. Contact your DCHA caseworker about moving and ask if you’re eligible to port your voucher.
2. Submit the Intent to Vacate/Porting Request Form to DCHA. Keep a copy for your records.
3. Meet all lease or notice requirements for ending your current tenancy.
4. Receive the Portability Packet and submit any extra documentation your new county’s housing authority requests.
5. Work with the receiving PHA to complete their process and receive your new housing voucher.

Which Tribunal Handles Rental Disputes in DC?

Rental disputes, such as security deposit returns or disagreements with landlords, are handled by the Office of Administrative Hearings, Landlord & Tenant Branch. Housing voucher issues are typically managed by DCHA, but tenant rights are protected under District of Columbia Residential Landlord-Tenant Regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use my DC Housing Choice Voucher outside of the District?
   Yes, you may be able to transfer (or "port") your voucher to another county in the United States, as long as you follow the proper steps and the receiving public housing agency accepts your voucher.
2. How long does the voucher portability process take?
   The process can take a few weeks up to several months, depending on paperwork, voucher availability in your new county, and how quickly both agencies process your transfer.
3. Are there any reasons my portability request could be denied?
   Your portability request could be denied if you haven’t fulfilled your lease term, have serious lease violations, or owe money to DCHA.
4. Who do I call if my caseworker doesn't respond?
   If you can't reach your DCHA caseworker, contact the DCHA Housing Choice Voucher Program directly via their official contact page or call (202) 535-1000.
5. Is there help to prevent losing my voucher during the move?
   Yes. For help, reach out to the DCHA Portability Team. It's important to stay in contact through every step and meet notice deadlines to maintain your rental assistance.

Key Takeaways for DC Voucher Holders

• Moving with your Housing Choice Voucher is possible if you follow the portability process.
• Submit official forms—especially the Intent to Vacate—and keep in touch with both DCHA and your future housing authority.
• Contact the DCHA Portability Team or relevant PHA immediately with any questions or issues to protect your rental assistance.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• District of Columbia Housing Authority Housing Choice Voucher Program (DCHA HCVP): Main program portal
• DC Office of Administrative Hearings, Landlord & Tenant Branch
• HUD Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Fact Sheet
• District of Columbia Residential Landlord-Tenant Regulations
• Contact DCHA Customer Service

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1. See the HUD HCV Portability Fact Sheet: HUD – About Housing Choice Voucher Program (Portability)
2. District of Columbia Housing Authority HCVP: DCHA Housing Choice Voucher Program
3. District of Columbia Residential Landlord-Tenant Regulations: DC Official Code Title 42, Chapter 35
4. DC Office of Administrative Hearings Landlord & Tenant Branch: OAH Landlord & Tenant
5. HUD Consent Form 9886: HUD Release of Information Form

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