How to Use Housing Choice Vouchers to Move Between Counties in Ohio

If you have a Housing Choice Voucher (also known as Section 8) in Ohio, you have the right to move to another county. This option is called "portability." Portability can help you get better access to jobs, schools, or affordable housing. Here, we explain what portability means, how it works in Ohio, and what renters need to know to move smoothly between counties while using a voucher.

What Is Portability for Housing Vouchers?

Portability lets eligible renters transfer their Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) from one county's Public Housing Agency (PHA) to another’s, including counties throughout Ohio. Each county has its own PHA that administers the voucher program. Portability is governed by U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) rules and the Ohio Revised Code Chapter 3735 – Housing Authorities¹.

Who Can Use Portability in Ohio?

• You must have a current, valid Housing Choice Voucher.
• You must have lived in the county where you first got your voucher for at least 12 months (unless your PHA lets you move sooner).
• Your voucher must still be active, and you must be complying with all voucher rules.

If you qualify, you may request to move to any other county in Ohio (or even another state) where a PHA administers the voucher program.

How Portability Works: The Basics

The process involves coordination between your current PHA (the "initial PHA") and the PHA in the county you wish to move to (the "receiving PHA"). It’s important to notify your current PHA before you make any moving plans. Official steps and required forms are outlined below.

Key Steps to Move with Your Voucher

1. Notify your current PHA in writing of your intent to move to another county. Use their standard portability request procedure if available.
2. Submit the HUD-52665 Form: This form, called the "Family Portability Information Form (HUD-52665)," is used by your current PHA to communicate with the receiving PHA. For example, if you live in Franklin County and want to move to Cuyahoga County, Franklin County’s PHA will send this form to Cuyahoga County’s PHA after you notify them.
   • When used: After you give notice, your PHA staff will complete and send the HUD-52665.
   • How it helps: Starts the official process for your voucher to be accepted in the new county and transfers your details.
   • View HUD-52665 (PDF)
3. Work with both PHAs to complete any additional paperwork or eligibility checks required by the receiving PHA, such as:
   • Income documentation
   • Background checks
4. Attend a briefing session if your new county's PHA requires it. Some agencies have special orientation sessions for incoming families via portability.
5. Find a rental unit in your new county that accepts vouchers, meets program standards, and passes an inspection.

Public Housing Agencies & Tribunals in Ohio

Ohio tenants and landlords are overseen by their county-level PHAs and may resolve legal disputes through the local Municipal or Housing Courts. For general voucher complaints and discrimination issues, HUD investigates through its Fair Housing division.

Relevant Ohio Legislation

• See Ohio Revised Code Chapter 3735 – Housing Authorities
• HUD Portability Resource Guide (federal rules)

Common Voucher Portability Issues

• Delays due to incomplete paperwork. Make sure all forms are complete and submitted early.
• Income re-certification in your new county. Your eligibility must be rechecked according to the new county’s limits.
• Differences in payment standards. Rental assistance amounts may change by area.

Preparation and open communication with both PHAs can help avoid most roadblocks and secure your new home faster.

FAQ: Moving with Vouchers in Ohio

1. Can I use my voucher to move out of Ohio?
   Yes, portability rules let you move your voucher to any other location in the U.S. with a Housing Choice Voucher program, but rules and processes vary by destination.
2. Will I lose my voucher if I move?
   No, as long as you follow the steps and maintain eligibility, your voucher remains active throughout the process.
3. How long does the portability process take?
   It often takes 30–60 days, but processing can be longer if there’s missing paperwork or delays in finding a new rental unit.
4. Who do I contact if there’s a dispute or delay?
   You can talk to your PHA’s case manager, contact the receiving county’s PHA, or escalate to Ohio’s housing court system if necessary.
5. Do I need to file any paperwork myself?
   Usually, your PHA will handle the HUD-52665 Form, but you must provide timely written notice and any supporting documents they request.

Key Takeaways for Ohio Renters

• You can move your Housing Choice Voucher between counties, but must follow both your current and new PHA’s procedures.
• The HUD-52665 Form is essential for processing your portability request.
• Stay in communication with both agencies for a smooth move.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• HUD List of Ohio Public Housing Agencies – Find and contact PHAs by county
• Ohio Legal Aid Housing Help – Help and legal support for renters
• Ohio Housing Finance Agency – Statewide affordable housing resource
• Ohio Housing Courts – For disputes and tenant rights cases
• HUD Fair Housing Complaints

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1. Ohio Revised Code Chapter 3735 – Housing Authorities
2. HUD Portability Fact Sheet
3. HUD-52665 Family Portability Information Form
4. List of Ohio PHAs (HUD)
5. Ohio Housing Courts

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