How to Use Housing Vouchers to Move Between Counties in Illinois

If you're receiving rental assistance through a housing voucher—such as the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV), also known as Section 8—in Illinois, you may have the right to move to another county while maintaining your benefits. Understanding how to "port" your voucher can help you find affordable housing that better meets your needs, regardless of county lines.

Understanding Portability: Moving with Your Voucher in Illinois

The Housing Choice Voucher program, overseen by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), allows you to use your voucher outside your original housing authority’s jurisdiction—a process called "porting." In Illinois, this means you can move from one county to another and continue to receive rental assistance, provided you follow the correct procedures.

Key Steps Before Starting the Move

• Confirm your eligibility for portability with your current Public Housing Agency (PHA).
• Give your landlord and PHA proper notice (usually 30 days or more, depending on your lease).
• Ensure your voucher is in good standing (no outstanding violations or debts).

It's important to coordinate with both your current and future PHA to avoid losing your benefits during the transition.

Required Forms for Porting Your Voucher

Portability Information Form (No official number)

• When/How Used: This form is completed when you notify your current PHA of your intention to move. It collects details about your receiving housing authority and new location.
• Official form PDF – Portability Information Form (Chicago Housing Authority)
• Example: If you want to move from Cook County to Kane County, provide this form to your Cook County PHA, identifying Kane County Housing Authority as your receiving agency.

Intent to Vacate Notice

• When/How Used: Give written notice to your current landlord and PHA before leaving. The required period is often 30 days, but check your lease agreement.
• Official Intent to Vacate Form
• Example: Inform your landlord and PHA in writing on the date your 30-day notice starts, ensuring documentation for both parties.

Voucher Portability Request Packet (from the receiving PHA)

• When/How Used: Once your file is sent to the new county’s PHA, complete any additional paperwork or eligibility updates required by the receiving agency.
• View Kane County Housing Authority Portability Instructions
• Example: After your Cook County PHA transfers your records, fill out the new agency’s packet, possibly including income verification or updated household information.

What to Expect from Housing Authorities

Both the initial (current) and receiving housing authorities have specific roles and responsibilities during a voucher transfer:

• Your current PHA must process your portability request promptly and send required paperwork to the receiving PHA.
• The receiving PHA will review your information, validate your eligibility, and issue a new voucher for use in their jurisdiction.
• Rental amounts and program rules may differ in the new county, so discuss payment standards and deadlines before moving.

You should always keep copies of all forms and correspondence. Deadlines for paperwork are strict—delays may jeopardize your eligibility or housing.

Protections and Rights for Illinois Renters Moving with Vouchers

Illinois law protects your right to move under the Housing Choice Voucher program. The Illinois Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination based on the source of income, which includes rental subsidies like vouchers. Local ordinances may provide extra protections.

Your housing rights, including notice requirements and dispute resolution, are outlined in the Illinois Residential Tenants’ Right to Repair Act and the Illinois Human Rights Act. If you face problems, you can contact the Illinois Department of Human Rights (IDHR) or your local housing agency for support.

Key Actions for Renters Porting a Voucher in Illinois

Moving with a voucher is a process with clear steps. Each housing authority may have its own forms or requirements, so verify details with both your current and future PHA.

• Request portability approval from your current PHA
• Submit proper move-out and portability paperwork
• Complete all forms with the receiving (new) PHA
• Communicate regularly to confirm deadlines and application status

FAQs: Moving Vouchers Across Counties in Illinois

1. Can I move with my Section 8 voucher anywhere in Illinois?
   Yes, the HCV program allows eligible families to use vouchers in any county or area where a participating housing authority administers the program. Always coordinate your move with both PHAs in advance.
2. What if my new county's payment standards are different?
   The receiving PHA’s payment standards and rules apply, which may affect your portion of the rent. Ask the new PHA about their limits before committing to a unit.
3. Do I need to reapply for a voucher in my new county?
   No, but you must go through the portability transfer process and may need to provide updated paperwork to the new PHA.
4. How long does it take to complete a voucher transfer?
   Transfers can take several weeks. Start planning early and submit all forms promptly to avoid interruptions.
5. Where do I get help if a housing agency is not processing my move?
   You can contact the Illinois Department of Human Rights or request a grievance hearing with the PHA if you believe your rights have been violated.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Illinois Renters

• You can transfer (port) your housing voucher to another county in Illinois with proper notice and by following both PHAs’ processes.
• Use required official forms and communicate regularly with housing authorities to keep your benefits active.
• Know your rights under Illinois law and contact official housing support if problems arise.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA): Guidance on rental programs & moving with vouchers
• Chicago Department of Housing: Tenant Resources
• Illinois Department of Human Rights: Support for discrimination complaints and tenant rights
• HUD Voucher Forms and Information
• Illinois Legal Aid: Housing Choice Vouchers
• Illinois Moving with a Housing Voucher – Official FAQ

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1. Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) Program information: HUD HCV Program Fact Sheet
2. Illinois Human Rights Act, source of income protections: Illinois Human Rights Act
3. Illinois Residential Tenants’ Right to Repair Act: Illinois Residential Tenants’ Right to Repair Act
4. Official Illinois PHAs list: HUD Illinois PHA Contact Report
5. Tribunal for Illinois: Illinois Department of Human Rights

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