How to Use Housing Choice Vouchers to Move Counties in Kansas

Moving to another county in Kansas with a Housing Choice Voucher — sometimes called a Section 8 voucher — is a big step if your situation or needs change. Fortunately, the Kansas voucher system includes a process known as “portability,” which allows renters to use their vouchers in different areas. This guide walks you through important rules, official forms, and what to expect when transferring your rental voucher across county lines, making the process as clear as possible for Kansas residents.

Understanding Voucher Portability in Kansas

Housing Choice Vouchers are federally funded through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), but they are managed locally by Public Housing Agencies (PHAs) throughout Kansas. If you receive rental assistance, "porting" your voucher allows you to move to another county and keep your subsidy, as long as the new area is covered by another PHA.

Basic Steps to Move Your Voucher

• Contact your current PHA to express your interest in moving.
• Confirm you meet eligibility (e.g., completed 12 months in your current unit, in good standing).
• Complete required forms to request portability.
• Your current PHA will forward your paperwork to the receiving (new county's) PHA.
• The new PHA reviews your case, may require a briefing, and issues your voucher for use in the new location.

It’s important to communicate with both your current and receiving PHAs early in the process to stay on track.

Official Forms for Portability in Kansas

All voucher moves must start by notifying your local PHA and completing necessary portability paperwork. Below are the standard forms and how they are used:

• Portability Release/Transfer Request Form (no standard federal number)
  • When to Use: When you want to move out of your current PHA’s jurisdiction to another county. Usually obtained from your current PHA office.
  • Example: If you live in Wyandotte County (managed by Kansas City, Kansas Housing Authority), and wish to move to Sedgwick County, you complete this form with your current housing office.
  • Kansas Housing Resources Corporation – Portability Information
• HUD Form 52665: Family Portability Information
  • When to Use: This form documents all portability actions and must be completed by your PHA. It is submitted by the agency, not the tenant, but you can request a copy for your records.
  • Example: After your initial transfer request is approved, the PHA uses this form to coordinate with the receiving PHA. HUD Form 52665 download

Check with your specific local PHA to confirm if additional forms or steps are required, as procedures may differ slightly by office.

Kansas Rental Legislation and Authority

Housing vouchers, landlord rights, and renter obligations are governed by the Kansas Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (full text here), along with HUD’s Section 8 regulations. Local housing authorities handle rentals under these statutes.

The Kansas Housing Resources Corporation (KHRC) is the statewide agency managing most Housing Choice Vouchers and rental assistance in Kansas. Local PHAs, such as the Kansas City, Kansas Housing Authority or Wichita Housing Authority, oversee programs in their respective areas.

Key Requirements for Portable Vouchers

Before you can move your voucher to another county:

• You must usually have lived in your current PHA’s area for at least 12 months after receiving your voucher.
• You must be in good standing — not violating lease or PHA rules.
• Your new home must meet both federal and local housing quality standards, and rent amount must fall within local payment standards.

What to Expect After Requesting Portability

Once you file the portability request with your current PHA, here is what often happens:

• Your PHA checks your eligibility and circumstances.
• If approved, they send your information to the receiving PHA in your new county.
• The receiving PHA contacts you for an intake or briefing (may include an orientation on local rules).
• You receive a new voucher, search for a suitable rental unit, and complete inspections before move-in.

Note: Some counties in Kansas may have waiting lists or caps on voucher use; be sure to confirm availability with your destination PHA.

How to File a Voucher Portability Request

1. Contact your current PHA office to discuss your intention and check specific local procedures.
2. Complete any required forms (release/transfer requests) and attend a meeting if requested.
3. Your caseworker will start the HUD Form 52665 process and forward your paperwork to the new PHA.
4. Respond quickly to requests from the receiving PHA to avoid processing delays.

Always keep copies of all communications and forms for your records.

FAQ: Moving With Vouchers in Kansas

1. Can I move anywhere in Kansas with my Housing Choice Voucher?
   You can move to any county in Kansas with a participating Public Housing Agency, provided you meet eligibility requirements. Always check with the receiving PHA for availability and any waiting lists.
2. How long does the portability process take?
   It commonly takes 30–90 days, depending on how quickly forms are processed and whether the receiving PHA has immediate availability.
3. What if the new county has a higher rent than my previous one?
   Your voucher payment standards may change. The receiving PHA will explain your new rental limits based on local standards and HUD guidelines.
4. Are there costs involved in transferring my voucher?
   There are no fees to move your voucher, but you are responsible for moving expenses such as transportation and moving services.
5. Who do I contact if I have issues during the portability process?
   Start with your current PHA caseworker. For unresolved problems, you can reach out to the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation or HUD field office for assistance.

Key Takeaways for Kansas Renters

• Voucher portability gives you flexibility to move within Kansas, provided you meet key PHA and HUD requirements.
• Start your transfer process early and communicate with both your current and future counties’ housing agencies.
• Always use official forms and keep records of all your paperwork and correspondence during your move.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Kansas Housing Resources Corporation – Voucher Portability
• HUD: Kansas PHA Contact List – Find your local housing agency
• KHRC: Contact and Support
• Kansas Legal Services: Renter Assistance

---

1. Kansas Housing Resources Corporation: Portability Information
2. HUD Form 52665 – Family Portability Information
3. Kansas Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (KSA 58-2540 et seq.)
4. HUD: Housing Choice Voucher Fact Sheet

Categories

Renter Rights & Legal Protections Lease Agreements & Renewals Rent, Fees & Security Deposits Moving In: Inspections & Disclosures Moving Out & Ending a Lease Maintenance, Repairs & Habitability Health & Safety Standards Evictions & Lease Violations Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Fair Housing Laws Accessibility & Disability Accommodations Utilities, Services & Billing Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Rent Control & Rent Stabilization Privacy Rights & Landlord Entry Security, Locks & Emergency Protections Dispute Resolution & Legal Aid Retaliation & Harassment Protections Mobile Home & Manufactured Housing Rights Special Housing Types & Situations