Can I move to any county in Virginia with my voucher?

Yes, most counties accept incoming vouchers, but you should check with the receiving housing authority for specific requirements or waiting lists.

Will my rent amount or voucher size change if I move?

Your share of the rent may change based on the new county’s payment standards and housing costs; the housing agency will confirm this for you.

How long does the portability process take?

Portability can take several weeks to a few months, so notify your agency early and keep in regular contact with both PHAs.

Do I need to reapply for my voucher when I move counties?

No, but your eligibility is re-verified by the new county’s housing authority, and you must submit updated documents.

Where can I get help if my transfer is delayed?

Contact both PHAs involved; you can also reach out to Virginia’s Department of Housing and Community Development for support.

How to Use Housing Choice Vouchers To Move Counties in Virginia

Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Virginia published June 21, 2025

Moving can be stressful, especially when you rely on rental assistance programs like the Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) in Virginia. If you want to use your voucher to relocate to another county, it's important to follow the proper steps to ensure your housing assistance continues. This guide explains how to transfer your voucher between counties in Virginia, which forms you need, and where to get renter support.

Understanding Voucher Portability in Virginia

The Housing Choice Voucher Program is managed by local Public Housing Agencies (PHAs), but federal rules allow you to transfer, or "port," your voucher from one jurisdiction to another. This is called portability. In Virginia, each county has at least one PHA that handles these transfers. Portability helps renters find housing that better suits their needs, whether it's to be closer to family, work, or better schools.

What is Portability?

Portability means the ability to move your Section 8 voucher from your current housing authority’s area to another county in Virginia or even another state. Your voucher will help pay rent in your new county, as long as you meet the eligibility requirements and complete the necessary steps.

When Can You Move with a Voucher?

You can request to move with your voucher:

After your first year in the program, or sooner if your current lease allows it
If you are in good standing (no serious lease violations or unpaid amounts)

Check your current lease for any move-out restrictions and communicate your plans to both your landlord and your PHA early on.

Steps to Transfer Your Voucher to Another County

Before moving, you must get approval and follow each step required by your current PHA. The process involves several official forms and clear communication.

Notify Your Current PHA
Submit a written request to move with your voucher (portability request) to your current PHA. This usually means contacting your assigned caseworker, either by phone or in person. Be ready to specify the county you wish to move to.
Submit Official Portability Forms
Your PHA will provide you with the necessary forms. The key document is the HUD Form 52665 (Family Portability Information). This establishes communication between your current (initial) and new (receiving) housing agencies.
Coordinate with the Receiving PHA
Your current PHA will send your documents to the PHA in the county you wish to move to. The receiving PHA may require you to attend a briefing or complete additional paperwork.
Find Acceptable Housing
Once approved, search for a rental that meets program standards and rent limits for the new county. Your new landlord must agree to participate in the Housing Choice Voucher Program.
Complete Lease and Inspection
When you find a new place, the receiving PHA will inspect it to ensure it meets safety and quality standards. Sign the lease and submit a Request for Tenancy Approval (HUD Form 52517).

Tip: Start the portability process at least 60 days before your planned move. This helps prevent gaps in your rental assistance.

Required Forms for Portability

HUD Form 52665: Family Portability Information
- When Used: Initiates the transfer from your current PHA to the receiving PHA.
- How Used: Your PHA completes and sends this form to the receiving agency along with your file.
- Access HUD Form 52665 (official HUD site)
Request for Tenancy Approval (HUD Form 52517)
- When Used: After you find a new rental, submit this form to the receiving PHA to approve the unit.
- How Used: Complete with your potential landlord. The PHA uses the form to schedule an inspection.
- Download Request for Tenancy Approval (official HUD site)

For more details or specific county information, visit the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development’s Rental Assistance page.

Key Points to Remember

Your voucher generally keeps the same terms and subsidy.
Restrictions or waiting lists may exist in some counties.
Your eligibility is re-verified in the new location.

Staying on top of deadlines and providing complete, accurate paperwork will help your transfer go smoothly.

About the Tribunal for Tenant Disputes in Virginia

If you encounter disputes with a landlord connected to your voucher move, you may contact the Virginia General District Court. This court handles residential landlord-tenant matters within the state. For more information, see the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA)¹.

Always keep copies of your correspondence and forms. Track submission dates and get written confirmation when possible.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I move to any county in Virginia with my voucher?
Yes, most counties accept incoming vouchers, but some may have waiting lists or special policies. Always check with the receiving PHA before making firm plans.
Will my rent amount or voucher size change if I move?
Your portion of the rent may change based on the payment standards and local housing costs in the new county. The PHA will inform you of any changes after you apply.
How long does the portability process take?
It can take several weeks to a few months, depending on paperwork, inspections, and PHA workload. Start early to avoid gaps in assistance.
Do I need to reapply for the voucher when moving counties?
No, you don’t need to reapply, but your eligibility will be re-verified by the receiving PHA. You must submit updated documents and complete the requested forms.
Where do I get help if my transfer is delayed?
Contact both your current and receiving PHAs. You may also contact the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development for guidance.

Conclusion: Key Takeaways

You can use voucher portability to move between Virginia counties, but must follow all required steps and deadlines.
The main forms for transfer are HUD Form 52665 and Request for Tenancy Approval (52517).
Contact your local PHA and consult the VRLTA for your rights if problems arise.

Carefully gathering information and working closely with both housing agencies will help ensure a successful move with your housing voucher.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development – Rental Assistance: Information about voucher programs and contact details for PHAs across Virginia.
HUD PHA Contact List: Find your current or new county’s Public Housing Agency.
Virginia General District Court: For disputes over rental housing in Virginia.
Read the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (VRLTA)