How to Use Housing Vouchers to Move Counties in Tennessee
If you have a Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) in Tennessee, you can move to another county using a process called "portability." Understanding your rights and the correct steps makes this transition smoother and ensures you keep your rental assistance without interruption.
Understanding Voucher Portability in Tennessee
Portability is the official term for transferring your Housing Choice Voucher from one Public Housing Agency (PHA) jurisdiction to another. This allows you to move to a different county, as long as the PHA in the destination area administers a voucher program.
Who Can Use Portability?
- Current voucher holders who have lived in their current PHA area for at least 12 months.
- Anyone whose local PHA permitted them to apply as a non-resident (check with your issuing PHA).
Your PHA may have specific requirements, so always verify with your local housing authority first.
Steps to Transfer Your Voucher to Another County
The process includes applying for portability, notifying both PHAs, and submitting required forms. Here is a summary of these important steps:
- Contact your current PHA and request portability.
- Complete necessary portability paperwork.
- Your PHA will send your documents to the receiving PHA in your new county.
- Attend a briefing with the new PHA and follow their search and leasing process.
Key Forms Needed for Portability
- Portability Release Form (No official number)
This form notifies your current PHA that you wish to transfer ("port") your voucher to another county. Example: If moving from Memphis to Knoxville, ask your Memphis Housing Authority caseworker for their portability request form. See HUD Portability Form Sample (official example, but check with your specific PHA for their version). - HUD Form 52665: Family Portability Information
This federally-recognized form is completed by your current PHA to share essential voucher details with your new county’s PHA. Renters usually do not complete this directly, but you should confirm it was sent. View HUD Form 52665. - Voucher Packet (varies by PHA)
After arriving in your new county, you'll receive a new set of forms—typically an application, eligibility verification, and landlord information packet from the receiving PHA. Visit the destination county’s housing authority website for their application process (for example: Knoxville's Section 8 Housing Information).
Important State Legislation and Tribunal
In Tennessee, rental rights, voucher programs, and landlord-tenant relationships are governed by the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (T.C.A. § 66-28-101 et seq.). Housing voucher disputes and issues are typically handled through your local Public Housing Agency, but for landlord-tenant issues, you can contact the Tennessee state courts system.
What Happens After You Move?
After relocation, your rental assistance is managed by the PHA in your new county. You must follow all program rules, including deadlines for finding housing, income recertification, and rent payments. Missing paperwork or deadlines can put your rental subsidy at risk.
FAQ: Moving Vouchers Across Counties in Tennessee
- Can I transfer my voucher to any county in Tennessee?
Most counties with a participating PHA accept voucher transfers, but always confirm with the receiving PHA first. - Do I need to reapply for the voucher program in the new county?
No, but you must complete new intake forms and attend a briefing with the destination PHA. - What happens if my paperwork is delayed?
Delays can pause your move or disrupt your voucher benefits. Communicate often with both PHAs. - Who sets my new rent amount?
Your new county’s PHA will determine what portion of the rent is covered by the voucher, based on their payment standards. - Where can I file a complaint about my rights during the move?
Contact your local PHA or the Tennessee Attorney General's Office if you face discrimination or serious issues. See official links below.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Renters
- Portability lets you move your Housing Choice Voucher to another Tennessee county if you follow required steps and paperwork.
- Start the process early—coordinate between your current and new county's PHA to avoid benefit gaps.
- Use official forms and resources to ensure your rights are protected during the move.
Need Help? Resources for Renters
- HUD: Find Your Local Public Housing Agency
- Tennessee Department of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services – Housing & Tenancy Support
- Tennessee State Courts (Landlord-Tenant Cases)
- Tennessee Attorney General – File a Complaint
- Knoxville's Section 8 Information (sample receiving PHA)
- Tennessee Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, official PDF
- U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Housing Choice Voucher Portability Guidance
- Sample HUD Form 52665, HUD official form
- Knoxville’s Housing Authority Portability Process, Section 8 Info
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