How to Use Housing Vouchers for a County-to-County Move in Montana

If you’re a Montana renter with a Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) and want to move to another county, understanding the transfer (portability) process can help you keep your rental assistance. This article will walk you through the rules, forms, and official steps to successfully move your voucher in Montana.

Understanding Voucher Portability in Montana

"Portability" is the process that lets you use your Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) outside the area where you originally received it. In Montana, this means you can move from one county to another and continue getting rental assistance—if you follow the rules set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and administered locally by Public Housing Authorities (PHAs).

Can You Move With Your Voucher?

• If you’ve lived in your current rental under your voucher for at least 12 months, you’re usually eligible to move anywhere in Montana (or even the U.S.).
• You must be in good standing with your local Public Housing Authority—owing no unpaid rent or owing money to your PHA.

The process and paperwork may seem complex, but you have rights and support throughout.

Steps to Transfer (Port) Your Housing Choice Voucher

• Notify your current PHA: Let your local PHA know you want to move. You’ll need to submit a written request and share where you plan to move (even if you’re still looking).
• Meet all lease and program requirements: Confirm you’ve completed your lease term and maintain compliance with voucher rules.
• Your PHA contacts the receiving PHA: Your current PHA sends your information to the housing authority in the county you want to move to—this starts the portability process.
• Complete any required paperwork: The new (receiving) PHA may require more forms and a briefing about their local rules and payment standards.
• Find and lease approved housing: Locate a rental in the new county that meets program requirements and pass inspection before moving in.

The right support and paperwork keep your rental assistance intact during a move.

Official Forms: What Montana Renters Need to Know

• HUD Form 52665 – Family Portability Information
  When is it used? This form is used by PHAs when you request to port your voucher. For example, if you live in Billings and want to move to Missoula, your Billings PHA completes HUD-52665 and sends it to Missoula Housing Authority.
  Read or download HUD Form 52665 (Family Portability Information)
• Montana Authorization for Release of Information Form
  When is it used? Some PHAs may ask you for a signed release so they can share your information with the new PHA. This ensures your application can be processed smoothly.
  Montana Release of Information Form (EIV Authorization)

Ask your local PHA if any additional forms are needed for your selected county.

Where to Get Help: Montana’s Tenant Resources and Official Authority

If you have questions or disputes when transferring your voucher, contact your local PHA or the Montana Department of Commerce Housing Division. Residential tenancy matters, including disputes and legal hearings, may be handled in Montana District Courts—Landlord-Tenant Division.

Montana's landlord-tenant law is found in the Montana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Title 70, Chapter 24, MCA).¹

Tips for a Successful Voucher Transfer

• Keep written records of all communications with both PHAs.
• Meet move-out and move-in deadlines so you don’t risk losing assistance.
• Ask each PHA if they have a checklist of steps or required local documents.

FAQs About Moving Vouchers Between Montana Counties

1. Can I move to any county in Montana with my voucher?
   Yes, if you meet eligibility rules—most commonly, having used your voucher in your current area for at least a year and staying in good standing with your PHA.
2. How long does a voucher transfer usually take?
   Typically, the process takes several weeks but can take longer if forms are delayed or if the new county’s PHA has waitlists or unique rules.
3. Do I have to fill out new paperwork when moving my voucher?
   Yes. Both your current and receiving PHAs will have you complete or sign forms like the HUD-52665. Always check with both offices.
4. Who approves voucher use in my new county?
   Your "receiving" PHA (in your new county) will process and approve rentals according to their local standards—your move isn’t final until approved there.
5. What official board handles tenant disputes in Montana?
   The Montana District Courts—Landlord-Tenant Division handle rental disputes. Visit Montana Courts Landlord-Tenant resources.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• You can transfer your Housing Choice Voucher to another county in Montana by following the HUD portability process.
• Use official forms like HUD-52665 and work closely with both the current and new county’s PHA.
• Reach out to Montana’s District Court Landlord-Tenant Division for help with rental disputes.

Being prepared with the right paperwork and by knowing your rights ensures a smooth housing voucher move.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Montana Department of Commerce Housing Division – Information for Section 8 renters and contacts for all PHAs.
• Montana District Courts—Landlord-Tenant Division – Official site for rental legal disputes and information on court procedures.
• HUD Montana Renting Resource – Federal and local guidance for voucher holders.

---

1. Montana Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Mont. Code Ann. Title 70, Ch. 24)
2. Montana Department of Commerce Housing Division
3. HUD Form 52665: Family Portability Information
4. Montana District Courts—Landlord-Tenant Division

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