Can I move anywhere in Texas with my Housing Choice Voucher?

Yes, you can transfer your voucher to any county in Texas, but you must follow official portability procedures and notify your current housing authority.

How long does portability take when moving with a voucher?

Processing typically takes a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on paperwork and coordination between the current and new PHAs.

Do I need to apply again for Section 8 in my new county?

No. Your housing authority will transfer your voucher, but you'll need to meet with the new PHA and provide updated information.

What should I do if my lease hasn’t ended yet?

You must follow your existing lease rules on notice and move-out. Speak to your landlord and PHA about timing and permissions.

Where can I get help if I have trouble porting my voucher?

Contact the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs or your local legal aid for support with your rights and the process.

How to Use Housing Choice Vouchers to Move to Another County in Texas

Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Texas published June 21, 2025

Do you have a Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) in Texas but want to move to a different county? You're not alone—many renters seek affordable homes or better opportunities by transferring their rental assistance. Understanding the official rules and required forms can help you make a smooth transition while protecting your rental rights under Texas law.

Understanding Portability for Housing Choice Vouchers in Texas

Portability allows renters with Housing Choice Vouchers to move from one jurisdiction (county or city) to another inside Texas. This is possible because the Housing Choice Voucher Program is federally funded and administered by local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) in Texas. Porting your voucher lets you rent in communities that better fit your life, work, or family needs.

Key Requirements for Transferring Your Voucher

You must have a valid, active Housing Choice Voucher.
You usually need to have lived in your current PHA’s jurisdiction for at least 12 months unless you first applied where you currently live.
All rent, paperwork, and compliance with voucher rules must be up to date before you request a move.

Moving with your voucher to a new county is known as “porting” and follows official procedures established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and your current PHA.

Step-by-Step: How to Move with Your Voucher to a New County

Transferring your voucher (portability) involves notifying your current PHA, completing required forms, and coordinating with both your current and new PHA. Here’s an overview:

Notify your current PHA that you want to move. Give written notice, following the terms of your lease. Some PHAs have a standard portability request form.
Complete the official HUD Family Portability Information Form (HUD-52665). Your current PHA must fill this out and send it to the new PHA in your desired county.
- When used: The HUD-52665 is triggered once you request portability. It covers your eligibility and voucher details.
- Where to get it: It is handled directly by your PHA. You can also review the sample form in the HUD HCVP Administrative Guidebook.
Contact the receiving PHA in the county where you want to live. Confirm their contact info and any local steps (find Texas PHAs here).
Wait for approval, attend a briefing/interview with the new PHA, and receive your voucher and search instructions.

Action Steps and Practical Tips

Always give written notice to your current landlord, according to your current lease and local rules.
Stay in close contact with both PHAs to prevent paperwork delays.
If you face issues or discrimination during the move, contact the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs or file a fair housing complaint with HUD.

Remember: Texas law protects renters from retaliation and unfair practices. You have rights when transitioning between homes.

Your Rights and the Law

As a voucher holder, you are protected by Texas landlord-tenant laws as well as federal voucher program rules. The key laws governing rentals in Texas are found in the Texas Property Code Chapter 92 – Residential Tenancies.¹ The administration of voucher programs is overseen by both HUD and the local housing authority serving each county.

For disputes (like eviction, habitability problems, or deposit issues), renters may seek help from the civil courts in their county or contact TDHCA for help understanding their rights.

Key tip: Portability is your right as a qualified voucher holder—never pay anyone extra or give up your voucher to move. All forms and help should come from official sources only.

Official Forms Used for Housing Voucher Portability

HUD-52665 Family Portability Information Form
- When used: When you request to move with your voucher. Completed by your current housing authority and sent to the receiving PHA.
- View HUD-52665 sample in the HCVP Admin Guidebook
PHA Notice of Intent to Move (varies by housing authority)
- When used: To alert your landlord and housing authority if you want to move. Always include written notice. Check your current PHA’s website for a specific form or ask their office for guidance.
Request for Tenancy Approval (HUD-52517)
- When used: Once you find a new unit, the landlord must fill out this form for the new PHA to approve the lease and rent. Access details in the HCVP Administrative Guidebook.

Make sure you use only the official forms provided by your housing authority or found on HUD’s Housing Choice Voucher Program page.

Where to Go for Help: Texas Rental Housing Tribunal and Resources

Texas does not have a separate housing tribunal, but all rental disputes are handled by the county’s Justice of the Peace Courts. These courts resolve eviction (also known as "forcible entry and detainer") cases across Texas.²

The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) is the main state agency overseeing rental assistance and voucher rights in Texas. Use their site to learn more about your options and protections.

Frequently Asked Questions about Moving with Housing Vouchers in Texas

Can I move anywhere in Texas with my Housing Choice Voucher?
Yes, you can request to move to any county in Texas, but you must follow portability rules and coordinate with both the current and new PHAs.
How long does it take to transfer my voucher to another county?
Processing times vary—typically a few weeks to a couple of months. Delays can happen if paperwork isn’t complete, so stay in close contact with both PHAs.
Do I need to complete a new application for the new county’s PHA?
No. Your current PHA will handle the official paperwork transfer. However, you’ll need to attend an orientation and provide updated documentation to the new PHA.
What happens if my lease hasn’t ended yet?
You must follow your lease rules for notice before moving, even with a voucher. Talk to your landlord and housing authority if you have questions or need to break your lease early.
Where can I get help if my portability request is denied or delayed?
Contact the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs or your local legal aid organization for guidance on your housing rights and complaint options.

Key Takeaways

Texas renters with Housing Choice Vouchers can move between counties using the portability process.
Use official HUD and PHA forms and follow all required steps to avoid delays.
Texas tenant laws and the Justice of the Peace Courts protect renters’ rights and help resolve disputes.

By following these guidelines and using only official, government resources, you can transfer your voucher and maintain your rental protections in Texas.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Texas PHA Directory (HUD) – Contact your current and destination county housing authority
Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs – State housing rights, rental assistance, and complaints
Texas Justice of the Peace Courts – Resolve eviction and housing disputes
HUD Fair Housing Complaint Process – Report discrimination or housing barriers