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

If you rent in Wyoming and rely on rental assistance, you may be wondering how to transfer your Housing Choice Voucher (commonly known as Section 8) if you want to move to another county. The process—called "portability"—lets you keep your assistance when moving, but you must meet certain requirements and follow official procedures. Understanding these steps helps ensure a smooth transition for you and your family.

Understanding Voucher Portability in Wyoming

Housing Choice Vouchers are federal assistance managed by local Public Housing Agencies (PHAs). Portability means you can move to a different jurisdiction—including another county—in Wyoming and continue receiving rental assistance if approved. Both your current and the new PHA play a role in the transfer process.

Who Manages Housing Vouchers in Wyoming?

Within Wyoming, the Wyoming Housing Network (WHN) and the Wyoming Section 8 HCV Program administered by various local agencies help manage vouchers. The official body resolving landlord-tenant issues is typically the Wyoming District Courts.

Eligibility and Steps for Moving Your Voucher

Before transferring your voucher, make sure to:

• Have lived in your current PHA’s area for at least 12 months (unless your initial lease has ended or you experience a qualifying circumstance, such as domestic violence).
• Be in good standing with your current PHA (no serious lease violations, updated paperwork).
• Select a new county or PHA in Wyoming where you wish to live.

What Is the Portability Process?

The general steps to use your voucher in another Wyoming county include:

• Submit a written request to your current PHA to "port" your voucher—usually called the Portability Request Form. Your PHA may have a specific form and process.
• Your PHA will review your eligibility, then send your information to the receiving (new) PHA.
• The new (receiving) PHA will contact you to discuss next steps, schedule an interview, and explain local rules. You may need to complete recertification paperwork.
• Once approved, you can search for housing that meets voucher program requirements in your new county.
• After finding a unit, your landlord must complete a Request for Tenancy Approval (RFTA) Form – HUD-52517 (Official HUD HCV Forms).

You must follow all deadlines, attend appointments, and work closely with both PHAs. Approval, paperwork, and inspections can take several weeks.

Relevant Forms and How to Use Them

• Portability Request Form (varies by local PHA) — Use this to officially request moving your voucher to another county. Ask for the form directly from your current PHA's office (for example, Wyoming Housing Network Contact Page). Fill out and submit it with your intended new county's information. Once approved, you will coordinate with both PHAs.
• Request for Tenancy Approval (RFTA) - HUD Form 52517 — Required once you have found a new rental home in your chosen county. Both you and the prospective landlord need to fill this out to confirm the lease meets voucher requirements. Find the official form at the HUD RFTA Form 52517 site.

For families with special circumstances (such as veterans, persons with disabilities, or victims of domestic violence), talk to your housing authority about expedited transfers or additional supports.

Your Rights & Legal Protections

Wyoming rental assistance and landlord-tenant relationships are governed by Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act (Wyo. Stat. §§ 1-21-1201 to 1-21-1211).^[1] If you experience discrimination or unfavorable treatment during the move, you may file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

How to Handle Issues During Your Move

• If a landlord will not accept your voucher, ask your new PHA about local non-discrimination laws and available rental listings.
• If your current PHA delays transfer, request an official decision in writing and contact the Wyoming District Court if a legal dispute arises.

Keep all documentation and correspondence regarding your move and voucher status.

FAQs for Renters Transferring Vouchers in Wyoming

1. Can I move to any county in Wyoming with my voucher?
   Yes, as long as the receiving county's PHA administers the voucher program and you fulfill required conditions such as residency and lease completion.
2. What if my lease isn't over—can I still port my voucher?
   Generally, you must finish your initial lease term, but exceptions may apply for emergencies like domestic violence. Speak with your PHA if you need to move early.
3. How long does the portability process take?
   It can range from several weeks to a couple of months, depending on PHA response times, paperwork, and inspections. Start the process as early as possible.
4. Does my voucher amount change in a new county?
   Possibly. Payment standards and rent limits vary by area, so your subsidy may be adjusted based on the new county’s rules.
5. Who do I contact if I have issues with the transfer?
   Contact both your current and new PHA for status updates. For unresolved legal disputes, seek help from the Wyoming District Court.

Transferring a Housing Voucher in Wyoming means you have options and protections, but following the process and staying informed are key to avoiding disruption in your rental assistance.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Wyoming Housing Network Section 8 — Program info, applications, and contact.
• Wyoming Section 8 HCV Program — Eligibility, county contacts, guidance.
• HUD Wyoming PHA Contact List — Find your local PHA.
• Wyoming District Courts — For rental legal disputes.
• HUD Discrimination Complaint Process

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1. Wyoming Residential Rental Property Act (Wyo. Stat. §§ 1-21-1201 to 1-21-1211): Wyoming Statutes, Title 1, Chapter 21
2. Official HUD Housing Choice Voucher Forms: HUD HCV Program Forms
3. Wyoming Housing Network: Section 8 Program Information
4. Wyoming District Courts: Official Court Information

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