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Can I move to another state with a Section 8 voucher?

You can move to another state with a Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8), but you need permission from your current housing authority first. The process takes time and not all areas accept transfers.

Program rules & income limits
  • Published Sep 18, 2026
  • Reviewed Sep 21, 2026
  • 2 min read
A family carrying boxes from a moving truck to a house

The short answer

Yes, you can move to another state with a Section 8 voucher. But you must get approval from your current housing authority before you move. You also need to find a housing authority in your new state that will accept your voucher.

How it works

Section 8 vouchers are portable. This means you can use them in any state. However, each local housing authority runs its own program and decides whether to accept new vouchers from other areas.

You need to:

  • Contact your current housing authority and tell them you want to move
  • Ask them to send your voucher to the housing authority in your new state
  • Wait for the new housing authority to approve your transfer
  • Find a landlord who accepts Section 8 in your new area

Things to know

The transfer process can take several weeks or months. Some housing authorities have long waiting lists and may not accept transfers right away. A few areas may limit how many out-of-state vouchers they accept.

Once you move, you'll work with the new housing authority. They may have different rules about inspections, rent amounts, and what landlords they approve.

Your voucher stays active while you're looking for a place in your new state, but you must follow your current housing authority's rules during the transfer period.

What to do next

Call or visit your housing authority's office to start the process. Ask about their transfer procedures and how long it typically takes. Get everything in writing when possible.

You can also contact the housing authority in your destination state to ask if they accept transfers and whether they have room in their program.

Frequently asked questions

What if my new state's housing authority won't accept my voucher?

If the housing authority where you want to move won't accept your voucher, you have options. You can stay in your current state and keep your voucher. You can also try contacting HUD directly to ask about your options, though they cannot force a local housing authority to accept your voucher.

Do I lose my Section 8 voucher if I move without permission?

Yes. Your housing authority can terminate your voucher if you move without getting approval first. Always contact your housing authority before moving, even if you think the transfer will be denied.

Can I use my Section 8 voucher to move back to my original state?

Yes. If you move to another state and later want to move back, you can request a transfer to your original state's housing authority, just like any other move. The same rules apply.

Programs in this article

Section 8Local · US Department of Housing and Urban DevelopmentHousing Choice Vouchers, often called Section 8, help families with low income pay rent for a home they find in the private market.

Official sources

  1. HUD Housing Choice Voucher Program

Last reviewed Sep 21, 2026. Found an error? Tell us.

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Program rules & income limits

Researched from official agency sources and checked against our editorial policy.

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