How to Use Housing Choice Vouchers to Move Counties in Pennsylvania

If you have a Housing Choice Voucher (also called Section 8) in Pennsylvania and want to move to another county, you may be able to do so through a process called "portability." This means you can take your rental assistance with you when relocating within the state. Understanding your rights and the steps involved can help you transition smoothly.

Understanding Portability of Housing Choice Vouchers in Pennsylvania

The Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCV) helps low-income renters afford safe housing by paying part of the monthly rent. The program is managed by local Public Housing Agencies (PHAs). Portability lets you move your voucher across county lines—even to a different state, though this article focuses on Pennsylvania.

Who Can Use Portability?

• You must already have a voucher from your local PHA.
• You must have lived in the area covered by your PHA when you applied, or met specific exceptions.
• Your lease or program rules may require you to spend at least 12 months in your current location before moving.

If you're eligible, you have the right to request portability. The receiving PHA must have a program and be willing to assist incoming voucher holders.

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

• Notify your current PHA: Tell your current housing authority you want to move. This is usually done in writing.
• Complete necessary forms: Your PHA will have you fill out portability paperwork. This often includes the HUD Form 52665 – Family Portability Information, which allows PHAs to transfer your case information.
• Contact the receiving PHA: Your current PHA will forward your documents to the PHA in the county where you want to move.
• Attend an intake meeting: The new PHA will invite you for an orientation. They may require income/household documentation.
• Search for eligible housing: After your case is accepted, you can begin looking for housing in your new county.
• Submit Request for Tenancy Approval (RFTA): When you find a landlord, fill out the HUD Form 52517 – Request for Tenancy Approval to have the unit inspected and approved.

Relevant Official Forms and How to Use Them

• HUD Form 52665 – Family Portability Information
  Use: This is completed by your current PHA to transfer voucher information to the new county's PHA. Example: If you're moving from Allegheny County to Bucks County, your PHA sends this form to Bucks County Housing Authority so they can process your case. Access HUD Form 52665.
• HUD Form 52517 – Request for Tenancy Approval
  Use: Once you find a new rental, you and your new landlord sign this form to ask the new PHA to inspect and approve your intended unit. Access HUD Form 52517.
• Pennsylvania Fair Housing Complaint Form
  Use: If you suspect discrimination during your move or housing search, you can file a complaint with the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission using their official intake form.

Your Rights and Legal Protections

The Pennsylvania Human Relations Act and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) rules protect your right to move with a voucher, free from discrimination. If you believe a housing authority or landlord is unfairly denying your request, you can contact the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC) for help.

Statewide, housing choice voucher policies are implemented under the U.S. Housing Act of 1974 and enforced locally by PHAs with guidance from HUD. For landlord-tenant disputes in Pennsylvania, contact the Residential Tenancy Tribunal, typically managed by the county's Magisterial District Courts^[1].

Key Tips for a Successful Move

• Keep copies of all paperwork between you and both PHAs.
• Let both PHAs know promptly about your intended move date and chosen housing.
• Work only with units and landlords approved by your new PHA.

Communication and readiness help make portability transitions smooth; if you encounter difficulties, don't hesitate to reach out for support.

Frequently Asked Questions: Moving a Housing Choice Voucher

1. How long does it take to port a voucher to another county in Pennsylvania? The process can vary, but most moves take 30-60 days once all paperwork is submitted. Delays are possible if there are issues with documentation or finding approved housing.
2. Do I need to reapply for a voucher when moving counties? No, you do not need to reapply. Your current voucher is transferred through the portability process between PHAs, as long as you are eligible.
3. Can my landlord refuse to accept a Housing Choice Voucher? In some Pennsylvania localities, landlords can refuse vouchers, but fair housing laws protect against other forms of discrimination. Always check your new county's local rules and contact the PHRC if you suspect unfair treatment.
4. What happens if I break my lease or move before my lease ends? Exiting your lease early without landlord and PHA approval could result in losing voucher assistance. Always give proper notice and seek permission.
5. Will my rental subsidy or payment amount change after moving? It may change depending on rent levels and payment standards in your new county. The receiving PHA will recalculate your share based on local limits.

Key Takeaways

• Portability lets you use your Housing Choice Voucher in another Pennsylvania county.
• Work closely with both PHAs, complete all required forms, and follow legal timelines.
• Pennsylvania and federal laws protect your right to fair, discrimination-free housing.

If you prepare ahead and use official resources, moving with your voucher can be a manageable process.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Pennsylvania Housing Choice Voucher Program (PHFA) – Statewide info and contacts
• Find Your PHA by County – Search for any housing authority in Pennsylvania
• Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission – File a discrimination complaint or seek mediation
• Pennsylvania Magisterial District Courts – Handles landlord-tenant disputes and eviction hearings

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1. Pennsylvania Magisterial District Courts: Minor Courts
2. U.S. Housing Act of 1974, P.L. 93-383
3. Pennsylvania Human Relations Act

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