How to Use Housing Choice Vouchers to Move Counties in New Hampshire

If you have a Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher in New Hampshire and are interested in moving to another county, you have important rights and responsibilities to ensure your rental assistance continues smoothly. Understanding the process—known as "portability"—can lessen your stress and help you make a successful move while maintaining affordable housing support.

Understanding Housing Choice Voucher Portability

"Portability" refers to your right as a Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) holder to move to another city or county—even outside of New Hampshire—and still use rental assistance. This flexibility is protected by federal and state regulations and helps renters pursue work, family support, or safer neighborhoods without losing their voucher.

Which Agency Handles Your Rental Voucher?

In New Hampshire, most Section 8 vouchers are managed by the New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority (NHHFA). Some local public housing agencies (PHAs) also administer voucher programs in specific areas. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Public Housing Agency (PHA) Directory for New Hampshire lets you find your administering agency.

What Are the Steps to Move with Your Voucher?

To move to another county in New Hampshire with your voucher, follow these key steps:

• Notify your current Public Housing Agency (PHA) in writing of your intent to move and use portability.
• Ensure your lease has been fulfilled (typically one year) and you are in good standing with your landlord and PHA.
• Submit the required portability paperwork (see below) to your current PHA.
• Your current PHA will contact the receiving PHA in your new county, sending your information and voucher eligibility.
• The receiving PHA will schedule an orientation, reverify your eligibility, and issue you a voucher for your new location.
• Search for approved housing in the new county and complete the paperwork to finalize your move.

This process is sometimes called "initiating portability." Always check your PHA's deadlines for giving notice and completing paperwork.

Official Forms Needed for Moving with a Voucher

• Portability Request Form (No Standard HUD Number) – Used to formally request that your Housing Choice Voucher be transferred (“ported”) to another PHA. Typically, you would ask your PHA for their version of this form. For example, NHHFA Portability Request Form.
  Example: If you're moving from Manchester to Concord, submit this form to NHHFA, and they will communicate with Concord Housing Authority.
• HUD Form 52665 – Family Portability Information – Used between PHAs to transfer a family's info. Usually completed by your current PHA, not the tenant. You can review the form on HUD’s official website for information.
• Notice of Intent to Vacate (varies by landlord/agency) – You are usually required to notify your current landlord in writing before moving. NHHFA provides a Notice of Intent to Vacate form.

Each PHA may have their own process; always confirm requirements directly with your agency.

Key Legal Protections and Guidelines

Voucher rules are governed federally by 24 CFR Part 982 (Housing Choice Voucher Program Regulation) and locally administered by New Hampshire Housing authorities. New Hampshire’s main tenancy law is the New Hampshire RSA 540 (Residential Tenancies), which outlines your rights in housing.

• You cannot be denied voucher portability solely based on race, national origin, family status, or other protected classes.
• Timely notice and completion of both PHA and landlord paperwork is required to avoid delays.
• Most voucher holders must remain in their original jurisdiction for at least one year before porting.

What If There’s a Dispute or Delay?

If you feel your rights are being denied—such as unnecessary delays or discrimination—contact your PHA for a written explanation. If problems persist, you may file a complaint with HUD’s Office of Fair Housing (HUD Fair Housing Complaint Page) or seek advice from New Hampshire Legal Assistance.

Residential Tenancy Dispute Handling Body in New Hampshire

New Hampshire does not have a standalone "rental tribunal"; instead, most residential tenancy disputes, including those involving vouchers, are handled in local New Hampshire Circuit Courts (District Division). They interpret and enforce RSA 540 and relevant federal regulations.

FAQ: Moving with a Voucher in New Hampshire

1. Can I move anywhere with my Section 8 voucher in New Hampshire?
   Generally, yes—after you have lived in your current jurisdiction at least one year. You need PHA approval and must follow portability procedures.
2. How far in advance should I notify my PHA about moving?
   Most agencies require at least 30-60 days written notice. Check with your PHA for their exact timeline.
3. What if my landlord refuses my move?
   If you have completed your lease and followed proper notice, your landlord cannot stop your portability. Legal action may be necessary only if you are still within your lease term.
4. Can my voucher amount change when I move?
   Yes, your rent portion or subsidy may be recalculated based on the new area’s payment standards and rent limits.
5. Who do I contact for disputes about voucher portability?
   Start with your PHA. If unresolved, contact HUD's Office of Fair Housing or the Circuit Court in your area for further steps.

Key Takeaways

• Section 8 voucher holders in New Hampshire can move to another county using "portability," but must coordinate closely with both PHAs.
• Key paperwork includes your local Portability Request Form and Notice of Intent to Vacate.
• Disputes and legal issues are usually handled by the Circuit Court, interpreting RSA 540 and federal voucher regulations.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority Rental Assistance – Main state-level PHA for voucher issues.
• HUD Public Housing Agency Contact List for NH
• NH Legal Aid – Legal help for low-income renters.
• NH Circuit Court District Division – Handles tenancy disputes.
• HUD Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity

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1. New Hampshire Housing Finance Authority (NHHFA) Rental Assistance Programs
2. Housing Choice Voucher Federal Regulation (24 CFR Part 982)
3. New Hampshire RSA 540: Residential Tenancies
4. New Hampshire Circuit Courts (District Division)

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