How to Use Housing Choice Vouchers to Move to Another County in Florida

For Florida renters using the Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) program, moving to another county might seem complex, but with the right information and official support, the process can be navigated smoothly. If your life circumstances change—whether for work, family, or safety—you have the right to transfer your voucher under a process known as 'portability.' Understanding portability can help you maintain rental assistance and continued housing stability in a new community within Florida.

Understanding Voucher Portability in Florida

Portability is the process that allows eligible Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) participants to use their rental assistance in a different area, including another county or city in Florida. This right is protected by federal regulations and supported by local Public Housing Agencies (PHAs), in combination with state tenancy laws.

Who Can Transfer a Voucher?

Generally, you may transfer your Housing Choice Voucher if:

• You have lived in the jurisdiction of your issuing PHA for at least one year (unless you initially qualified to rent outside your jurisdiction).
• You are in good standing with your current PHA (not in violation of program rules or lease).
• You follow the proper notification and paperwork procedures.

If unsure, always contact your current PHA before making moving arrangements.

Steps for Moving Your Voucher to Another County

Below is a step-by-step summary tailored to renters wishing to relocate anywhere within Florida using their HCV/Section 8 assistance.

1. Contact Your Current Public Housing Agency (PHA): Notify them of your intent to move and request 'portability' paperwork. You can find your Florida PHA using the official HUD Florida PHA directory.
2. Complete and Submit Portability Forms: Your PHA will provide a Portability Request Form (sometimes titled 'Notice of Intent to Move'). Complete this to formally request the transfer.
   
   • Form Name: Portability Request/Notice of Intent to Move (form numbers vary by county PHA)
   • Purpose: Tells the PHA you want to move and start portability processing
   • Example Usage: If John, a renter in Miami-Dade, is moving to Orange County, he submits this notice to Miami-Dade's PHA
   • Find this form on your PHA's site; see Miami-Dade Section 8 Forms or Orange County Section 8 Information.
3. PHA Coordination: Your current PHA will forward your portability packet to the PHA in the area where you want to move. That receiving PHA will contact you with next steps, orientation materials, or additional forms.
4. Attend Briefings/Orientation: The receiving PHA may require a briefing or eligibility review. Bring your paperwork and be ready to answer questions about your household and needs.
5. Search for Housing: Once processed, look for eligible rental properties in your new county that accept vouchers. Ask the receiving PHA for an updated list of landlords.
6. Submit the Request for Tenancy Approval (RFTA) Form: When you find a unit, submit the HUD-52517, Request for Tenancy Approval (HUD-52517 PDF).
   • Used: When you and your new landlord agree to a rental
   • Example: After choosing an apartment in Orange County, you and your landlord fill out the HUD-52517 to start the approval process
7. Unit Inspection & Approval: The receiving PHA will schedule an inspection to ensure the new home meets Housing Quality Standards before your move-in date.

Important Forms and Where to Find Them

• Portability Request/Notice of Intent to Move: Get from your local PHA (often on their 'Forms' web page).
• HUD-52517, Request for Tenancy Approval: Download the official form here.

An official PHA might require additional forms, such as proof of income, family composition, or ID. Each PHA may have slightly different requirements—always check their website or call their office directly.

Your Rights and Legal Protections

Your right to portability is protected under federal law: 24 CFR § 982.353 and the Florida Landlord and Tenant Act (Chapter 83, Florida Statutes)^[1].

• You cannot be denied the ability to port your voucher if you meet program requirements
• Landlords in the new county are not required to accept your application, but no additional barriers should be placed by PHAs themselves

The Florida Department of Children and Families does not operate a central residential tribunal for tenancy disputes. However, rental disputes (including those related to portability or voucher discrimination) may be addressed in your local county court. Learn more at the Florida State Courts System website.

FAQ: Florida Voucher Portability and Moving

1. Can I move to another county in Florida with my Section 8 voucher?
   Yes. You can transfer ("port") your voucher after meeting eligibility requirements and following proper procedures.
2. What happens if my new county's PHA has different rules?
   While local PHAs may have specific policies, they must follow HUD and Florida law to process portability. You may need to attend briefings or submit different forms, but your right to use the voucher remains.
3. How long does the portability transfer process take?
   It can take several weeks to a few months, depending on paperwork, coordination between PHAs, and unit availability. Plan ahead and keep communication lines open.
4. Do I need to find a landlord who accepts vouchers in the new county?
   Yes. Only properties with landlords who participate in the HCV/Section 8 program are eligible.
5. Where can I find official help during the process?
   Contact your PHA, HUD Field Office, or visit the HUD Florida Renting Assistance resources.

Key Takeaways for Florida Renters

• Portability allows you to use your Housing Choice Voucher anywhere in Florida if you meet eligibility rules
• Start with your local PHA and use only official forms for requests and move-out notices
• Always confirm approval from the new county's PHA before signing leases or relocating

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• HUD Florida Rental Assistance – General information on housing programs
• Florida PHA Directory – Find your local Public Housing Agency
• Florida Landlord and Tenant Act (Chapter 83)
• Florida State Courts System – For legal housing disputes

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1. Florida Landlord and Tenant Act: Read Chapter 83, Florida Statutes
2. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development: Housing Choice Voucher Program Fact Sheet: Portability
3. 24 CFR § 982.353 — Where family can lease a unit with tenant-based assistance

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