How to Use Housing Vouchers to Move to Another County in Oregon

If you have a housing choice voucher (commonly called a Section 8 voucher) in Oregon, you have the right to use it to move to another county — a process known as ‘portability.’ Knowing your rights, the paperwork, and how Oregon’s laws protect you will make the move smoother and more secure for you and your family.

Your Rights When Moving with a Housing Voucher in Oregon

Oregon renters using federal Housing Choice Vouchers have ‘portability’ rights, which means you can, in most cases, take your voucher to another city or county. The process is overseen by local public housing authorities (PHAs) and protected under Oregon’s Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^[1] You are also protected by federal rules from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

What is Voucher Portability?

Portability lets you move with your Section 8 voucher anywhere in the U.S. where a PHA administers a voucher program, such as from Portland (Multnomah County) to Eugene (Lane County). The process has steps and forms, but it is your legal right.

Steps to Transfer ("Port") Your Voucher to Another County

The process keeps your rental assistance active while you move. Here’s what you’ll generally need to do:

• Notify your current PHA (local housing authority) in writing that you plan to move to a new county. This starts the portability process and allows the agency to guide you through the next steps.
• Confirm your eligibility with your PHA (for example, that you’ve fulfilled any required tenancy period).
• Work with your current PHA to complete the official HUD Form 52665: Family Portability Information.
• Your current PHA will send your records to the receiving PHA in your destination county.
• The new (receiving) PHA will contact you about next steps, including briefings, paperwork, and local requirements.
• Find a landlord and eligible unit in your new county, and have your new PHA approve the lease and rental unit.

Key Official Form: HUD Form 52665

• Name: Family Portability Information (Form HUD-52665)
• When to Use: When you’re moving your Section 8 voucher between counties or PHAs, usually after notifying your current housing authority of your intent to move.
• How It Helps: This form transmits your eligibility and records to your new (receiving) housing authority, ensuring uninterrupted assistance.
• Download from the official HUD website

Example: Jane lives in Salem, Oregon, with a voucher from Salem Housing Authority. She wants to move to Bend (Deschutes County). She notifies Salem Housing Authority, completes Form HUD-52665, and Salem forwards her eligibility to Housing Works (Bend's PHA).

Oregon Agency Overseeing Tenancy Rights

Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) is Oregon’s statewide housing department. For renter disputes or legal support, contact the Oregon State Bar's Tenant Resources.

Most formal tenancy disputes are resolved through local courts, not a specialized board. However, the Oregon Judicial Department handles rental cases and disputes if they occur.

Common Challenges and Your Protections

Moving counties can mean learning new procedures, waitlists, or local rules. Always:

• Be aware of notice requirements for ending your lease (see your lease or Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act).
• Confirm your new county accepts incoming vouchers; not all PHAs administer vouchers.
• Stay on top of all deadlines and communication from both PHAs.
• If you face problems (delays, denials), contact HUD Fair Housing or Oregon Legal Aid.

If you need to file a legal dispute about your rental or voucher experience in Oregon, you’ll do so through your local circuit court, governed by the Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act.^[1]

FAQ: Using Vouchers Across County Lines in Oregon

1. Can I use my Section 8 voucher anywhere in Oregon?
   In most cases, yes. You can use (port) your housing choice voucher to any county with a local PHA administering the voucher program.
2. Is there a waiting period before I can move?
   Usually, you must live in your current PHA's area for at least 12 months before moving your voucher, unless your original application was outside the area. Check with your local housing authority for specifics.
3. What happens to my voucher if my move is delayed?
   Your voucher and eligibility remain with you, but keep in close contact with both PHAs. Carefully follow all notice and lease requirements to protect your rental assistance.
4. Who do I contact if I have trouble with the portability process?
   Start with the PHA where your voucher was issued. If you still have issues, contact Oregon Housing and Community Services or HUD’s regional office.
5. Are laws different between counties?
   Local rules may vary, but your federal voucher rights and Oregon’s Residential Landlord and Tenant Act protect you across all Oregon counties.

Key Takeaways for Renters

• Section 8 housing choice vouchers are portable—they can move with you to most counties in Oregon.
• Notify your current housing authority and complete HUD Form 52665 to start the process.
• Know your rights under Oregon law and keep communication clear with both the sending and receiving PHAs.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Oregon Housing and Community Services – guidance and programs statewide
• Oregon Public Housing Authority Lookup – find your local PHA to start your move
• Oregon Law Help – free legal information and help for renters and voucher holders
• Oregon Judicial Department – Landlord-Tenant Resources
• Oregon State Bar – Tenant Legal Information

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1. Oregon Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (ORS Chapter 90)
2. Family Portability Information, HUD Form 52665
3. Oregon Public Housing Authorities
4. HUD Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity Complaint Process

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