How to Use Housing Choice Vouchers to Move Counties in Idaho

Moving to a new county in Idaho can open new opportunities—but when you're receiving rental assistance, the process comes with important steps. This article explains how to use your Housing Choice Voucher (commonly known as Section 8) to move from one Idaho county to another. We'll use clear language, walk you through the forms, and point you to trustworthy state resources.

Understanding Portability: Moving with Your Voucher

Housing Choice Vouchers are managed by local Public Housing Agencies (PHAs), but federal law lets you move from one area to another. This feature is called portability. If you qualify, you can transfer your voucher to eligible rental housing in a new county—helpful if you need to move for work, family, or other reasons.

What Is a Housing Choice Voucher?

A Housing Choice Voucher is a rental assistance program funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and locally administered by Idaho Public Housing Agencies. Eligible renters pay a portion of their income toward rent; the PHA pays the rest directly to the landlord.

• The largest voucher program is 'Section 8.'
• Vouchers can be used for approved private housing (apartments, homes, etc.).
• Visit the HUD Idaho PHA Directory to find your local agency.

Can You Move Your Voucher to Another County?

Yes, as long as you meet certain requirements: you must be in good standing with your current PHA, and typically, you've lived for at least a year in your current area unless you first received your voucher while living in the new county. The new county must also operate a Housing Choice Voucher program.

How to Transfer (“Port”) Your Voucher to Another Idaho County

If you want to move, follow these steps to use your voucher in another county in Idaho:

1. Notify Your Current PHA

• Inform your current Public Housing Agency (PHA) in writing that you intend to move.
• Ask to start the portability transfer process—they’ll confirm your eligibility and explain the timeline.

2. Complete the Required Form: Request to Move/Port

• Form name: Idaho Housing and Finance Association (IHFA) Request to Move/Port Form
• When to use: Complete this form when you want to transfer your Housing Choice Voucher to another county.
• Example: If you find work in another county and want to use your voucher there, submit this form to your current PHA as soon as possible.
• Access the official Request to Move/Port Form (PDF)

3. Wait for PHA Approval and Paperwork Transfer

• Your PHA will review your request and confirm you are in good standing.
• They will communicate with the receiving county’s PHA and send your documents (“portability packet”).

4. Attend a Briefing with the Receiving PHA

• The PHA in the new county will schedule a meeting or "briefing" for you.
• You'll learn their local rules and get your new voucher.

5. Find Eligible Housing and Complete Lease-Up

• Search for eligible housing in the new county (within the voucher payment standards).
• Submit a Request for Tenancy Approval (also known as the RFTA form HUD-52517.
• Once all steps are approved, sign your new lease and move in.

Summary: Start by talking to your PHA, use the Request to Move/Port Form, attend a briefing, and then find housing and complete the required paperwork.

What Legislation Covers Rental Vouchers in Idaho?

The key rules are found in the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 (Section 8) and HUD’s Housing Choice Voucher Program regulations (24 CFR Part 982). Idaho’s rental laws, overseen by the Idaho State Courts, also apply to landlord-tenant relationships once you’ve moved in.
To learn more about general Idaho tenant rights, visit the Idaho Attorney General’s Legal Guide for Tenants and Landlords.

Important Official Forms for Moving Your Voucher

• Request to Move/Port Form (IHFA):
  • Purpose: Request a transfer of your voucher to a new county.
  • When to use: Anytime you intend to move with a voucher.
  • IHFA Request to Move/Port Form Official Link
• Request for Tenancy Approval (RFTA), HUD-52517:
  • Purpose: Register your new rental unit with the housing authority in your new county.
  • When to use: After finding an eligible rental, before moving in.
  • HUD-52517 RFTA Official Link

Tribunal or Board for Idaho Tenancy Issues

• Idaho State Courts handle residential tenancy disputes, including eviction and rental disagreements.

FAQ: Moving Vouchers Between Idaho Counties

1. Can I use my voucher right away in a new county?
   Your voucher’s transfer (“portability”) must be approved by both the sending and receiving Housing Authorities. This can take several weeks.
2. Do I need to reapply for rental assistance in the new county?
   No, you do not need to reapply, but you must complete the official Request to Move/Port Form and work with both county PHAs to continue your benefits.
3. Can my landlord refuse my voucher in Idaho?
   Idaho state law does not require landlords to accept Section 8 vouchers in most cases. Always ask potential landlords about their policies.
4. What happens if the receiving county has a different payment standard?
   The receiving PHA’s payment standards and policies will apply to your voucher, which may impact your portion of the rent.
5. Who can I contact if my transfer is delayed or denied?
   Contact the Idaho Housing and Finance Association or your local legal aid for guidance; unresolved disputes can be brought before the Idaho State Courts.

Conclusion

• Portability lets you move with your voucher, but it’s important to follow the correct steps and work closely with your PHA.
• Use official forms from the Idaho Housing and Finance Association and HUD to start your move, and be aware of different payment standards in your new county.
• For landlord-tenant issues after your move, the Idaho State Courts oversee disputes under state law.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Idaho Housing and Finance Association – Section 8 Program: Main agency for rental assistance and voucher moves.
• HUD Idaho Public Housing Agency Contact List: Find and contact local PHAs.
• Idaho Attorney General’s Tenant and Landlord Guide: Your rights and responsibilities in Idaho rentals.
• Idaho State Courts: For residential rental disputes and legal processes.

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1. Idaho Housing and Finance Association: Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program
2. HUD: Idaho Public Housing Agencies List
3. Idaho Housing and Finance Association: Request to Move/Port Form
4. HUD-52517: Request for Tenancy Approval (RFTA)
5. 24 CFR Part 982: Housing Choice Voucher Program Federal Regulations
6. Idaho State Courts: Official Tribunal for Rental Disputes
7. Idaho Attorney General: Tenant and Landlord Guidelines

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