How to Use Your Housing Voucher to Move to Another County in Indiana

If you receive rental assistance through the Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) program in Indiana, you may have the right to use your voucher to move to another county within the state. This process, called “portability,” can help you access better housing opportunities, move closer to work or family, or adjust to changing needs. Understanding the portability process, official forms, and your tenant rights can make moving smoother and less stressful.

Understanding Housing Voucher Portability in Indiana

Portability is a feature of the federal Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program, allowing eligible voucher holders to transfer their assistance to a different city or county—even outside their current Public Housing Agency’s (PHA) service area. In Indiana, this process is managed by the local PHA and must follow federal and state housing rules.

When Can You Use Portability?

• You must be a current voucher holder in good standing, with no outstanding debts to your PHA.
• If your voucher was first issued in your current county, you may be required to live there for at least 12 months before moving.
• All moves must be reported to and approved by your local PHA.

Step-by-Step: Moving with a Section 8 Voucher to Another County

Moving your voucher is a structured process. Carefully following these steps will help avoid delays or loss of assistance.

• Contact Your Current PHA: Let your PHA know you want to move to another county. Find your current Indiana PHA using the HUD Resource Locator.
• Submit Required Forms: Complete and submit the necessary forms. The standard form used is the Portability Release/Request Form (may also be called the Portability Request or Intent to Move Form, depending on your PHA).
• Your Current PHA Notifies the Receiving PHA: Your PHA will forward your paperwork, including your current voucher and supporting documentation, to the PHA in the county you wish to move to.
• Wait for Approval: The receiving PHA will review your application, check local rules, and may require an orientation or additional paperwork.
• Search for Housing: Once approved, you can look for eligible rental housing in your new county.
  • Find approved units and landlords through the Indiana Housing Search portal.
• Sign the Lease: After final approval, you sign a new lease and your voucher assistance continues as before, handled by your new county’s PHA.

Key Forms for Portability Moves

• Portability Release/Request Form (sometimes called Intent to Move):
  • When & How Used: Complete this with your current PHA to officially notify them of your desire to move and authorize transfer of your voucher file. Each PHA may have their own version, but it serves the same purpose statewide.
  • Indianapolis Housing Agency Official Portability Guidelines & Forms
• HUD Form 52665 – Family Portability Information:
  • When & How Used: Filled out by your housing specialist at your PHA. It provides your eligibility and transfer information to the receiving PHA.
  • Download HUD Form 52665 – Family Portability Information

Where to Get These Forms

Most Indiana PHAs offer these forms online or by request at their office. For a list of Indiana PHAs and contact details, visit the HUD Indiana PHA directory.

Your Rights and Tenant Protections

When moving with a voucher, your rights are protected by federal law (including HUD Housing Choice Voucher rules) and Indiana state law. Landlords in the new county must accept Section 8 vouchers unless they qualify for an exemption. You cannot be charged extra rent or denied housing solely for using a voucher.

If you encounter discrimination, you may file a complaint through the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA) or the HUD Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity.

What Agency Handles Rental Disputes?

In Indiana, rental disputes (including voucher issues or unlawful denying of tenancy) are handled by the local county civil court. You can learn more at the Indiana Judiciary Small Claims/Magistrate Courts.

Relevant Legislation

• Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31 – Landlord-Tenant Relations
• HUD Housing Choice Voucher Program Federal Rules

1. Can I use my Indiana Section 8 voucher anywhere in the state?
   Yes, you can use your voucher in any Indiana county, provided you meet eligibility and have followed all program rules such as living in your initial PHA’s service area for the required period.
2. How long does the portability process take?
   Processing typically takes 30–60 days or longer. Timing depends on how quickly paperwork is handled and whether your new county has waitlists or additional requirements.
3. What if the landlord in the new county refuses my voucher?
   Landlords generally cannot refuse your voucher because of its source. If you believe you were discriminated against, file a complaint with the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority or HUD’s Fair Housing office.
4. Is there a fee for moving my voucher to another county in Indiana?
   No, there is no fee for transferring your Section 8 voucher. Your PHA handles the paperwork free of charge.
5. What happens if I move without getting approval?
   Moving without official approval or proper notice can result in loss of your housing assistance. Always contact your PHA and follow all steps before moving.

Conclusion: What Indiana Renters Should Remember

• You can move to another county in Indiana with a Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher by following official steps and submitting the right forms.
• Your rights are protected by both state and federal law. Do not move before your PHA approves.
• Seek help from your local or receiving PHA if you have questions during your move.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• List of Indiana Public Housing Agencies (PHAs)
• Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA) — information, eligibility, and complaints
• Indianapolis Tenant Assistance Program
• Indiana Attorney General's Landlord-Tenant Resource

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1. Indiana Code Title 32, Article 31 – Landlord-Tenant Relations: View current Indiana landlord-tenant law
2. HUD Portability Fact Sheet: Official HUD Information on Portability
3. Portability Forms and Guidance: Indianapolis Housing Agency Section 8 Portability
4. HUD Form 52665: Direct download from HUD.gov
5. Indiana Judiciary: Small Claims/Magistrate Court information

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