How to Use Housing Choice Vouchers to Move to Another County in New Jersey

If you are a New Jersey renter with a Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8), you have the right to move to another county within the state. This process—known as "Portability"—lets you use your voucher outside your original Housing Authority’s area. Understanding these steps and your rights can make your move smoother, protect your benefits, and help you secure a safe and affordable new home.

Understanding Voucher Portability in New Jersey

The Housing Choice Voucher Program, sometimes called Section 8, is managed federally by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and locally by Public Housing Authorities (PHAs). If you want to relocate to a new county in New Jersey, you must follow the correct procedures to transfer your voucher and avoid losing assistance.

What is Portability?

Portability allows you to move with your voucher to a different part of New Jersey—or even another state—where a different PHA will administer your assistance. This is useful if you need to be closer to family, work, or better school districts.

Steps to Transfer Your Voucher to Another New Jersey County

Below is a summary of what you can expect during the moving process:

• Notify your current PHA: Provide written notice to your current PHA that you want to use portability to move. This is often done using a specific form (see below).
• Request portability paperwork: Ask your current PHA for all necessary documentation to begin the transfer.
• Confirm eligibility: Most renters must live in the issuing PHA's area for at least 12 months before porting out. Check with your PHA for exceptions.
• Choose your destination: Identify the PHA in the county where you want to relocate. You can search for NJ PHAs using the NJ HUD PHA List.
• Transfer your paperwork: Your current PHA will send your documents to the new PHA.
• Attend a briefing: The receiving PHA may require you to attend a voucher briefing or interview.
• Search for housing: You can now begin searching for a qualifying rental unit in your new county. The new PHA will let you know payment limits and requirements.

Timing can vary between authorities. Begin the process as early as possible to avoid gaps in your housing assistance.

Official Forms Needed for Moving with a Voucher

• Notice of Intent to Move (Portability Request)
  • When used: This form notifies your current PHA that you plan to move and use your voucher in another area. Most PHAs have their own version. For example, see the NJ DCA Notice of Intent to Move.
  • How it's used: Submit to your housing specialist before moving, such as: "I want to move from Essex County to Middlesex County and continue using my Section 8 voucher."
• HUD Form 52665: Family Portability Information
  • When used: Your original (sending) PHA completes this and sends it to the receiving PHA when you move to a different jurisdiction.
  • How it's used: For instance, if you're moving from Newark to Camden, your current housing authority fills out HUD-52665 to transfer your case. See HUD Form 52665 for an official copy.

Always keep copies of your forms and confirm receipt with both PHAs for your records.

Important NJ Housing Agencies and Laws

• Department of Community Affairs (DCA): The main state agency administering vouchers. Learn more and get assistance at the NJ DCA Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher page.
• Tribunal Handling Disputes: Disputes about rental housing, voucher discrimination, or improper denials are handled by the New Jersey Landlord-Tenant Court (Superior Court, Special Civil Part, Landlord/Tenant Section).
• Relevant Legislation: Tenant rights and PHA duties are governed by the New Jersey Anti-Eviction Act and related rules found in NJSA 2A:18-61.1 et seq.

FAQ: Moving with Section 8 Vouchers in New Jersey

1. Can I move anywhere in New Jersey with my voucher?
   Yes, as long as the new county has a participating PHA and you follow all notice and eligibility rules.
2. Does moving with a voucher affect my current lease?
   You must give your current landlord the proper notice, usually 30–60 days, and not break your lease terms.
3. How do I find the PHA in the county I want to move to?
   Use the HUD New Jersey PHA directory.
4. Can my landlord keep my voucher or deposit if I move?
   No. Your voucher stays with you. Security deposit returns follow state law.
5. What if my new landlord won't accept my voucher?
   Refusing a legal voucher may violate New Jersey’s anti-discrimination laws. File a complaint with the NJ DCA if needed.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Renters

• Portability lets you move to another New Jersey county while keeping your Housing Choice Voucher.
• Submit the correct forms to your PHA, provide proper notice, and follow state rules to protect your assistance.
• Contact your local Public Housing Authority or the NJ DCA for up-to-date guidance and support.

Planning ahead and knowing your rights help ensure your move goes smoothly and housing assistance continues uninterrupted.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• NJ DCA Housing Choice Voucher Resources — Official forms, contact info, FAQs, and tenant guides.
• HUD’s New Jersey PHA Directory — Find local PHA addresses and phone numbers across all NJ counties.
• NJ Landlord-Tenant Court Information — Procedures, forms, and filing complaints or appeals.
• Official NJ Housing Forms — Access all current forms, notices, and paperwork for renters and voucher holders.

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1. NJ DCA Section 8 HCV Program
2. HUD PHA Contact List for New Jersey
3. NJ DCA Official Housing Forms
4. NJSA 2A:18-61.1 et seq. (Anti-Eviction Act)
5. NJ Landlord-Tenant Court

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