How to Use Housing Vouchers to Move Between Counties in Michigan

Are you a Michigan renter with a Housing Choice (Section 8) voucher and thinking about moving to another county? Understanding how voucher 'portability' works can ensure you keep your rental assistance and avoid gaps in housing. This guide explains your rights, steps, and official resources for using vouchers across counties in Michigan.

What Is Housing Voucher Portability?

Voucher portability means you can use your Housing Choice (Section 8) voucher outside the area where you received it, including moving to another Michigan county. This allows you to seek housing that fits your needs without losing your rental assistance.

Your Rights Under Michigan Housing Law

• Michigan's Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) administers the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program statewide.
• The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) sets federal guidelines for voucher portability.
• Michigan renters are protected by the Michigan Tenant-Landlord Act, which provides general tenant protections.

For disputes, the district court in your county handles rental disagreements and housing voucher issues.

Eligibility: Can You Move with Your Voucher?

Generally, if you have lived in your current area for at least one year with your voucher, you may move (“port”) to another county. If you haven’t met the one-year requirement, you may need to request special approval or transfer your voucher if your current Public Housing Agency (PHA) allows.

How the Portability Process Works in Michigan

• Notify your current PHA (the local or state agency giving your voucher) that you wish to move to a new county.
• Your PHA will confirm your eligibility for portability and explain the required forms.
• The receiving PHA in your desired county will process your request and work with you to locate a unit and complete inspections.
• Once approved, sign a lease in your new county and move in.

Different counties may have different payment standards, paperwork, or waitlists—even within Michigan. Always verify available housing and standards before starting the process.

Key Forms for Porting Your Voucher

• Request to Move or Port Voucher (MSHDA Form HCV-006):
  • When to use: Submit when you want to notify MSHDA or your local PHA about your plans to move with your voucher and initiate portability.
  • Example: If you find a job in another county and want to relocate, complete and submit this form to your caseworker.
  • Download the HCV-006 Request to Move form from MSHDA
• Portability Release Form (if required by your PHA):
  • When to use: Some local PHAs may have their own release or transfer request forms.
  • Example: Your Flint, Kalamazoo, or Detroit PHA may ask you to sign this when moving to Grand Rapids or another county.
  • Ask your caseworker for the form or visit your PHA’s official Housing Choice Voucher page.

Common Steps for Renters Porting Vouchers

• Step 1: Notify your PHA in writing and complete required forms as early as possible.
• Step 2: Wait for confirmation of your eligibility to move; keep communication records.
• Step 3: Provide information about the destination county’s PHA so your paperwork can be sent there.
• Step 4: Respond quickly to requests for documents or appointments from the new county's PHA.
• Step 5: Find eligible housing in the destination county and follow rental steps as directed by the new PHA.

Tip: Always get written confirmation of each step. Never move before receiving approval—this helps protect your voucher.

FAQ: Michigan Voucher Portability

1. Can I use my voucher anywhere in Michigan?
   Yes, but you must follow portability procedures, inform your housing agency, and find housing in a participating area.
2. Will my rent portion change if I move counties?
   Possibly. Payment standards and rents may vary by county, which could affect your required portion. The new PHA will inform you of any changes.
3. How long does the process take?
   Processing transfers can take several weeks or longer. Start as early as possible and maintain contact with both PHAs.
4. Who handles disputes about voucher portability?
   Disputes are typically overseen by the district court in your county or by the Michigan State Housing Development Authority.
5. What if I have special needs or reasonable accommodation requests?
   You can request reasonable accommodations during the portability process. Ask your caseworker or see the MSHDA official housing page.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

• You have the right to move between Michigan counties with your Section 8 voucher, but you must follow the state and federal portability process.
• Use official forms like the MSHDA HCV-006 and communicate early with both your current and new county housing authorities.
• For any problems, seek help from the MSHDA, your local PHA, or county district court.

With the right steps and resources, you can successfully move with your voucher and find a new home in Michigan that fits your needs.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• MSHDA Housing Choice Voucher Program — Official program guidance and forms
• MSHDA Contact Page — For direct assistance
• HUD PHA Contact List for Michigan — Find your local PHA
• Michigan Courts Landlord-Tenant Self-Help Center — Get information about legal rights and disputes

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1. See HUD’s Guide to Housing Choice Voucher Program
2. Read the Michigan Tenant-Landlord Act
3. MSHDA HCV-006: Request to Move Form (PDF)
4. MSHDA Housing Choice Voucher Program Portal

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