Moving to Another County in NY with Housing Vouchers

If you live in New York and have a housing voucher—such as a Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher—you may wonder if you can move to another county and bring your assistance with you. The good news: the process, known as “portability,” allows eligible renters to use their vouchers in many other places throughout New York State. This article explains the rules, steps, and official forms you’ll need to successfully move with your voucher.

Understanding Voucher Portability in New York

Portability means you can transfer your rental assistance (like a Section 8 voucher) outside your initial Public Housing Agency (PHA) area—often to another county. This gives renters flexibility if you need to move for work, family, or a safer or better-suited home.

• Eligible Vouchers: Most commonly Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
• Applicable Areas: Any U.S. jurisdiction where a participating PHA operates, including any New York county
• Governing Law: The Code of Federal Regulations, Title 24, Section 982.353 and the New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR)

Your current PHA (the agency that manages your voucher now) and your new PHA (the agency for the county you want to move to) will coordinate to process the move.

When and How Can You Use Voucher Portability?

In most cases, you must have lived in your current PHA’s jurisdiction for at least one year before moving. Some exceptions may apply, especially for new recipients. Confirm with your PHA before making plans. Here’s how the process typically works:

• Give written notice to your current PHA about your intent to move and use portability.
• Your current PHA sends your information to the new county’s PHA.
• You follow the new PHA’s application requirements and deadlines.
• Once approved, you find a qualifying rental in your new county.

Key Forms for New York Voucher Portability

• Portability Move Request Form (varies by PHA)
  When to use: Complete this form to officially tell your current PHA you want to transfer your voucher. Each PHA may have its own version; for example, NY State HCR’s Portability Request Form.
  How: Fill out the form and submit it to your PHA’s Section 8 office before you move. For instance, if you’re in Albany County and want to move to Westchester, fill out the form and return it to Albany’s Section 8 office.
• HUD Form 52665: Family Portability Information
  When to use: Your current PHA completes this federally required form and sends it to the receiving PHA.
  How: This step is handled by agency staff, but you can view the official HUD Form 52665 for reference.
• Voucher Extension Request (if needed)
  When to use: If you can’t find eligible housing in the new county in time, you may request an extension. Contact your receiving PHA (example: NYS HCR or your county PHA) for their specific extension form.

Always use the forms provided by your individual PHA, which may be available on their website or by calling their office.

Step-by-Step: Moving to Another County with Your Voucher

Here’s a summary of the main steps involved in New York:

• Contact your current PHA (for example, find your local NYS PHA here).
• Submit the Portability Move Request Form, stating the county you plan to move to.
• Wait while your PHA confirms eligibility and communicates with the receiving PHA.
• Apply to the new county’s PHA as directed (some may require a meeting or documentation).
• Find an eligible rental unit and have it approved by the new PHA.
• Sign the lease and move in after final PHA approval.

If you’re unsure about any step or who to contact, check your PHA’s website or call and ask to speak to the Section 8 coordinator.

Tip: Start your portability process as soon as you’re considering a move, since securing housing and clearances can take several weeks or longer.

Your Rights and Protections as a Renter Moving with a Voucher

Both your current and new PHAs are required to follow federal and state regulations. Your voucher remains protected under the New York State Real Property Law and federal Section 8 rules. No landlord can deny you solely because you use a housing voucher, thanks to New York’s Source of Income Discrimination Law.

• You have the right to request reasonable accommodations due to disability at any stage.
• If you believe your voucher rights are violated, you may file a complaint with the New York State Division of Human Rights or ask your PHA for help.

Who Handles Disputes?

Most housing voucher issues are first handled by your local Public Housing Agency. For legal disputes or unresolved complaints, the main authority is the New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR). Learn more about their complaints process on the official complaints page.

1. Can I move anywhere in New York with my Section 8 voucher?
   Yes, you can transfer your voucher to any county with an active PHA that administers Section 8, provided you meet eligibility and notice requirements.
2. Do I lose my voucher if I move?
   No, as long as you follow the correct portability process and meet move criteria, your voucher remains valid.
3. How long does the process take?
   Processing can range from a few weeks to several months. Start early and maintain communication with both PHAs.
4. Is my new landlord allowed to refuse my voucher?
   No. New York’s law protects you from source-of-income discrimination—landlords cannot reject you for using a voucher.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• Voucher portability allows you to move to a different New York county and keep your rental assistance.
• Use official PHA forms and start the process early to avoid losing eligibility.
• Both state and federal law protect your rights throughout the move and after.

By getting familiar with the portability process and following the steps carefully, you can make your move smoother and maintain your housing stability.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• New York State Homes and Community Renewal (HCR): Section 8 Info & Local PHA Locator
• Find Your County's PHA Contact Info
• NYS Division of Housing and Community Renewal (Main Tribunal for Tenancies)
• File a Complaint or Appeal (NY DHCR)
• New York State Division of Human Rights: Discrimination Complaints

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1. 24 CFR § 982.353 – Portability of Voucher Assistance
2. New York State HCR – Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher Program
3. HUD Form 52665 - Family Portability Information
4. NY Real Property Law – Tenant Rights
5. New York State Human Rights Law – Source of Income Protection

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