How to Use Housing Choice Vouchers to Move Counties in Minnesota

If you have a Housing Choice Voucher (often called Section 8), you have the right to move to a new home—including one in a different county—across Minnesota. Understanding the process, paperwork, and regulations ensures your transition is as smooth and hassle-free as possible.

Understanding Voucher Portability in Minnesota

Voucher portability is a benefit of the Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8). Portability lets you use your current voucher to rent a new place in another county, provided the public housing authority (PHA) there participates in the program. This process is regulated by federal guidelines, but each Minnesota county’s PHA may set local policies for transfer timelines and eligibility.

When Can You Move with Your Voucher?

• You can move after you've lived in your current home for a full 12 months (unless your PHA allows transfers sooner).
• Your rent and utility payments must be current, and you shouldn’t have serious lease violations.
• You must notify your current PHA before moving, and the move must comply with the lease’s notice requirements.

How to Transfer Your Section 8 Voucher to Another County

The process involves both your current housing authority and the one in your new county. Each step is important for keeping your voucher active and your housing secure.

• Step 1: Contact your current PHA as soon as you think about moving. Ask for their Portability Coordinator to discuss your intent and learn about deadlines or documentation specific to your area.
• Step 2: Check your lease agreement’s notice requirements. Most leases require a written move-out notice (usually 30 or 60 days). Comply with these timings for a smooth transition.
• Step 3: Complete and submit the required PHA forms (see below) to start the portability process. Your current PHA will send your portability paperwork to the receiving PHA in your destination county.
• Step 4: Wait for approval and instruction from the receiving PHA, who will guide you through finding a new rental and signing a lease.

Key Forms for Voucher Portability in Minnesota

• Portability Request Form (no statewide form number): Used to formally notify your current PHA of your wish to move. Your PHA may provide a specific version; for example, Minneapolis PHA uses the Portability Request Form.
  Example: Jessica lives in Ramsey County, has finished her 12-month lease, and wants to move to Hennepin County. She requests and fills out the Portability Request Form with her current PHA, who then initiates the transfer process.
• HUD Form 52665 – Family Portability Information: This form is exchanged between PHAs, not by renters directly, but your paperwork will trigger its use. It confirms eligibility and starts transfer coordination. Access HUD Form 52665.
• Notice of Intent to Vacate: Usually a written or PHA-supplied form providing your move-out notice. Ask your PHA or see typical samples, like the Notice to Vacate for HCV Tenants.

Important Tips for Renters

• Keep copies of all forms submitted and received.
• Communicate regularly with both the original and receiving PHAs to avoid paperwork delays.
• Research local rental market limits—payment standards may differ by county.

Who Regulates Rental Assistance Programs?

Housing Choice Voucher rules in Minnesota are set at the federal level by HUD and locally administered by each Minnesota Public Housing Authority (PHA). If you have disputes or need appeals, contact your county's PHA and, if needed, the Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B – Landlord and Tenant Law for your legal rights¹.

FAQ: Moving with a Housing Choice Voucher in Minnesota

1. Can I transfer my Section 8 voucher to any county in Minnesota?
   Yes, most Minnesota counties accept voucher transfers. Always check with the receiving PHA in advance to confirm participation and availability.
2. How long does it take to process a portability move?
   The average time ranges from 30–60 days, but it can take longer depending on paperwork and PHA response times. Initiate the transfer as early as possible.
3. Do I need to reapply for assistance in the new county?
   No, you use your existing eligibility, but you may need to attend a briefing or provide updated documents to the new PHA.
4. What if my new county’s payment standard is different?
   If the standard is higher, you may pay more out-of-pocket. The PHA will tell you what you qualify for. Always review budget details with the receiving PHA.
5. Who resolves disputes over my voucher transfer?
   Start with the involved PHAs. If needed, you can file a complaint with the Minnesota Public Housing Authority, or seek assistance via legal aid (see resources below).

Key Takeaways for Minnesota Voucher Holders

• Portability lets you use your Housing Choice Voucher to move anywhere in Minnesota (and beyond).
• Start the process early, follow your PHA’s instructions, and keep documentation organized.
• If issues arise, official resources and assistance are available to protect your rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Minnesota Public Housing Authorities Contact List (HUD)
• HousingLink: Portability Information for Section 8 Renters
• LawHelpMN: Housing Rights & Legal Help
• Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B: Landlord and Tenant Law
• For disputes/appeals, contact your local PHA directly via their listed contact on the HUD Minnesota PHA directory.

---

1. Minnesota Statutes Chapter 504B: Landlord and Tenant Law
2. HUD: Housing Choice Voucher Fact Sheet
3. HUD: List of Minnesota PHAs

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