I would just like to know, if I wanted to move before I get my Section 8 voucher, is it possible that I can still move using the Section 8 with no problems? Thank You and have a good day!!
If you are fortunate enough to be on a HCV waiting list and are awarded a voucher you can use that voucher anywhere in the US. However, the PHA (government agency) that provides you with the voucher will check to see if the area rents are higher in the area you want to relocate to when compared to it’s current local payment standard. In other words, the PHA may deny your “port” (transfer to another PHA’s jurisdiction) if there is an increased cost to them do to higher rents, utilities, etc. For example, an Oklahoma City Voucher will not easily be able to Port to San Jose, CA. As usual, there are exceptions for mitigating circumstances.
So how common is it for “ports” to be denied when you’re moving to a jurisdiction that has higher rents specifically when the payment standard is slightly higher? I’ve been researching the portability option for about a year now and I’ve seen a change even in the legislation that prevents such denials especially when a participant wants to be move to a jurisdiction that is higher. It seems as if that practice was considered to go against the Fair Housing Legislation…because such denial means that you’re basically restricted to staying in low areas. I’d like to be even more informed because I have an appointment with my PHA to discuss my port out to Georgia.. And I think my chances of being able to port will be great..especially since I’ve informed them for a year of my intentions and have been corresponding with them every week for the last 3 months so it would seem if there was a problem I should have been made aware. Also, isn’t the PHA required to provide proof that such a move would create a situation where they aren’t able to support the current HCV participants. I mean..one person attempting to port to Georgia shouldn’t put too much of a dent in the budget especially when they’re just now receiving funds for this year. Please enlighten me so that I can be more prepared. Actually, I’m just about fully committed to the move since my last day of employment was this past Friday, I’ve already sent my landlord a 30-day notice and I’m packing as I type. So I need all the information I can get..and this site has definitely been the place to get it. Thank you and I look forward to any feedback
I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHY IS IT SO HARD FOR ME AND MY FAMILY TO RECEIVE LOW INCOME HOUSING . I AM A 31 YEAR OLD HARD WORKING MOTHER OF SIX CHILDREN 3GIRLS,3BOYS ,ALSO A SINGLE PARENT WITH ONE INCOME IN THE HOUSEHOLD.I BRING HOME 1350.00 A MONTH, MY RENTAL AMOUNT IS 1400.00 MONTHLY. I RECEIVE NO INCOME FROM ANY FATHERS,YES CHILDSUPPORT IS ENFORCE BY ME.I NEED HELP I NEED HOUSING. WHO IS GOING TO HELP US PUBLIC HOUSING SAID THEY CAN NOT HOUSE THAT MANY PEOPLE EVEN IF I HAD TO RELOCATE TO ANOTHER STATE.WE NEED HELP. I AM ON SECTION 8 WAIT LIST BUT YES, THATS ALL BIG WAIT.PLEASE ANY ONE WHO CAN HELP ME AND MY FAMILY GOD KNOWS THAT WOULD BE A BLESSING TO US WE WOULD BE SO GREATFUL. BECAUSE IN THESE DAYS ITS WHO YOU KNOW IN THOSE HOUSING OFFICE IF YOU KNOW NO ONE YOUR STILL FEEL HOPELESS AND SOMETIMES MAYBE HOMELESS.
Sharonda, The reasons are numerous… Budget Cuts, Under paid and over worked PHA staff, Incorrect FMRs (fair market rents), HCV stigma, Ineffective outreach, Managing the numerous programs (red tape), and more.
All of these reasons effectively decrease supply. We here you all. We know the problem(s). And I really believe we have a fix to this supply crisis. Stay tuned, it’s time for a private sector solution. Something pretty Cool is coming soon.
Sharonda, trust me I understand your frustration…I happen to be a single mother with 5 and after waiting well over 6 years to get the HCV Voucher…I’m barely qualifying to be eligible for the Voucher in fact if I didn’t make the decision to relocate they were saying that I’d be terminated from the program…38K for a family of 6..man it’s a struggle with the way utility costs and emergencies. It is definitely a struggle. So yeah you definitely have to be patient and find landlords that are willing to work with you..find those that see you working hard and can keep you encouraged. You know gosection8 you’re right when you talk about the HCV stigma, red tape and sometimes frustrated case workers. What I don’t understand for those that work in social service why do they have such a negative attitude I understand the stress that is involved but despite the stress they’re supposed to be there to help..to serve.
But it seems even your own caseworkers themselves believe the HCV stigma that may exist in some but they fail to look at someone like me a true example of a mother who has taken responsibility for her family no matter how many children I have…I work every day and I don’t take more than I need to help me through…we go without until I can earn what we need…in fact since I’ve been on the HCV program I’ve received no more than $150 a month in assistance..and for the last 4 months I’ve been paying my own rent. However, there are those that are still under the Certificate System and are getting a flat amount towards their rent. I don’t know what the solution is to be honest to really help those that are truly trying to help themselves. But I can definitely say just coming across this forum and the information provided here has given me hope and encouragement. So keep the faith Sharonda and keep reaching out looking at these types of sites.
Everything seemed to go well with my appointment, I have a voucher in hand and my information is being faxed to Georgia and I’m hoping things will go fine from here..if not I’m prepared with my rebuttals and even have a backup plan. And I have to say I take offense to those who stigmatize programs such as the HCV because I happen to be a taxpayer which is evident when I receive the NET of what I earn..and I feel that as a taxpayer I have a right to access the benefits of what I invested especially when it comes to making sure my children are provided with the best opportunities for a successful future. And that’s what it should be about
Could anyone help to clarify how lump sum distribution are handled during income verification appointment? I was trying to get an understanding from the Housing Choice Voucher Handbook and the regulations, but I want to make sure I’m understanding it. I know initially they counted the money that was going into my pension account as an asset because I was not allowed to access it while I was employed. However since I’m no longer working for that employer I can either take a refund or roll it over…well I’m considering taking a refund since I would need that to relocate..and I wanted to know how will that effect things. Thanks for any information.
I’am a single parent of one child. I’am a hcv recipient. I juggle between school and transporting my daughter from one part of town to the next just to take her to a better school than cherryhill middle school ,because of previous assaults from other students. I wanna move from cherryhill to the county, so my daughter can feel comfortable in our environment. My searches for properties that accept the voucher are coming up hopeless… I wish these property owners realize that there are still some people out here on section 8 that do maintain their place of residence, I mean not everyone destroy their home like some people. It’s very fustrating to keep getting e-mail replies stating that they don’t accept the voucher… I’m starting to wonder, what is the point of having this so called help/privilege?
I’m moving to georgia and i’m at stage one contacting my casewrker and all, after reading your story i’m somewhat encourged ,excited about the move i’m also happy for you that your transition is on the way, or by now went smoothly and your all settled in and enjoying HOTLANTA….
I am very forunate to be on section 8. I thank god for it. I live in south florida where the rents are so high, most are more than the pha pay per month. Not to mention the high security desposits they are asking as well… Are there any agencies that assist with security deposts?
I was reading your post and I noticed that you want to move to Atlanta, I wanted to move there too, so I called to the section 8 office there because I am currently unemployed for a little while. I was informed that you have to be employed before you can be accepted to move there. Although I am trying to reseach it more, I thought I would let you know what I was told by the section 8 office there.
Janetta, you remind me alot of myself. you have to do your own research alot of times. I thank God for Section 8. I am a divorced hardworking mother of four. Thank God I only had to wait one month before recieving my voucher after being in a domestic violence shelter . I would like to encourage everyone that is losing hope and frustrated with social workers….Don’t. Keep researching, making calls, whatever you have to do until your voucher is in hand. I understand exactly how you feel, they sometimes talk to you with disrespect or others just simply stereotype. Don’t let that discourage any of you. We are all just trying to make a nice life for our children and ourselves.
6-24-2007
hello everyone, i am thinking about moving to your city and sate of Avondale, AZ.
and i am on section 8 with 2 dogs, and right now i am living iin california on section 8 with my 2 dogs, my question is these 2 dogs are my family and i just cant put then down or leave them.
so are pets allowed to reside on section 8 as well , please be nice but be honest, thanks so very much,
joanne from california
Are pets allowed in the HCV program? Sure… The program has no rules governing pets. It’s up the owner/manager you lease from. Many allow pets with a pet deposit. Really, it’s no different than renting from any one else anywhere else… read your lease before you sign it.
Armand, if you know someone is abusing the section 8 program… Please report them to your local housing authority. If the fraud can be verified your PHA is likely to revoke the voucher from whomever is taking advantage of the system.
FMR (Fair Market Rent) will determine what your Secion 8 voucher will be worth. This is based on the size of the family, age of siblings. The cost of living varies from state-to-state and so will your voucher.
my parents are on section 8 and are currently living in a horrible neighborhood. i do not live with them, but would like to help them live in a safer area. if i find them a place in a nicer neighborhood, and the rent is more than the amount that they are allocated, will the HCV program allow me to pay the difference in rent for them?
June 2, 2007 at 9:24 am |
I would just like to know, if I wanted to move before I get my Section 8 voucher, is it possible that I can still move using the Section 8 with no problems? Thank You and have a good day!!
June 2, 2007 at 1:32 pm |
If you are fortunate enough to be on a HCV waiting list and are awarded a voucher you can use that voucher anywhere in the US. However, the PHA (government agency) that provides you with the voucher will check to see if the area rents are higher in the area you want to relocate to when compared to it’s current local payment standard. In other words, the PHA may deny your “port” (transfer to another PHA’s jurisdiction) if there is an increased cost to them do to higher rents, utilities, etc. For example, an Oklahoma City Voucher will not easily be able to Port to San Jose, CA. As usual, there are exceptions for mitigating circumstances.
June 4, 2007 at 5:56 pm |
So how common is it for “ports” to be denied when you’re moving to a jurisdiction that has higher rents specifically when the payment standard is slightly higher? I’ve been researching the portability option for about a year now and I’ve seen a change even in the legislation that prevents such denials especially when a participant wants to be move to a jurisdiction that is higher. It seems as if that practice was considered to go against the Fair Housing Legislation…because such denial means that you’re basically restricted to staying in low areas. I’d like to be even more informed because I have an appointment with my PHA to discuss my port out to Georgia.. And I think my chances of being able to port will be great..especially since I’ve informed them for a year of my intentions and have been corresponding with them every week for the last 3 months so it would seem if there was a problem I should have been made aware. Also, isn’t the PHA required to provide proof that such a move would create a situation where they aren’t able to support the current HCV participants. I mean..one person attempting to port to Georgia shouldn’t put too much of a dent in the budget especially when they’re just now receiving funds for this year. Please enlighten me so that I can be more prepared. Actually, I’m just about fully committed to the move since my last day of employment was this past Friday, I’ve already sent my landlord a 30-day notice and I’m packing as I type. So I need all the information I can get..and this site has definitely been the place to get it. Thank you and I look forward to any feedback
June 5, 2007 at 2:39 am |
I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHY IS IT SO HARD FOR ME AND MY FAMILY TO RECEIVE LOW INCOME HOUSING . I AM A 31 YEAR OLD HARD WORKING MOTHER OF SIX CHILDREN 3GIRLS,3BOYS ,ALSO A SINGLE PARENT WITH ONE INCOME IN THE HOUSEHOLD.I BRING HOME 1350.00 A MONTH, MY RENTAL AMOUNT IS 1400.00 MONTHLY. I RECEIVE NO INCOME FROM ANY FATHERS,YES CHILDSUPPORT IS ENFORCE BY ME.I NEED HELP I NEED HOUSING. WHO IS GOING TO HELP US PUBLIC HOUSING SAID THEY CAN NOT HOUSE THAT MANY PEOPLE EVEN IF I HAD TO RELOCATE TO ANOTHER STATE.WE NEED HELP. I AM ON SECTION 8 WAIT LIST BUT YES, THATS ALL BIG WAIT.PLEASE ANY ONE WHO CAN HELP ME AND MY FAMILY GOD KNOWS THAT WOULD BE A BLESSING TO US WE WOULD BE SO GREATFUL. BECAUSE IN THESE DAYS ITS WHO YOU KNOW IN THOSE HOUSING OFFICE IF YOU KNOW NO ONE YOUR STILL FEEL HOPELESS AND SOMETIMES MAYBE HOMELESS.
June 5, 2007 at 12:33 pm |
Sharonda, The reasons are numerous… Budget Cuts, Under paid and over worked PHA staff, Incorrect FMRs (fair market rents), HCV stigma, Ineffective outreach, Managing the numerous programs (red tape), and more.
All of these reasons effectively decrease supply. We here you all. We know the problem(s). And I really believe we have a fix to this supply crisis. Stay tuned, it’s time for a private sector solution. Something pretty Cool is coming soon.
June 5, 2007 at 12:38 pm |
Sharonda,
Here is a link to the CFR (24CFR982.355] on Ports: http://frwebgate.access.gpo.gov/cgi-bin/get-cfr.cgi?TITLE=24&PART=982&SECTION=355&YEAR=2000&YEAR=2000&TYPE=TEXT
You know the law, better than most, just make sure your case workers understand it too. Occasioanly, PHAs do incorrectly deny ports. Things will go easier if you are prepared and know the rules. Sounds like you are prepared!
June 5, 2007 at 5:54 pm |
Sharonda, trust me I understand your frustration…I happen to be a single mother with 5 and after waiting well over 6 years to get the HCV Voucher…I’m barely qualifying to be eligible for the Voucher in fact if I didn’t make the decision to relocate they were saying that I’d be terminated from the program…38K for a family of 6..man it’s a struggle with the way utility costs and emergencies. It is definitely a struggle. So yeah you definitely have to be patient and find landlords that are willing to work with you..find those that see you working hard and can keep you encouraged. You know gosection8 you’re right when you talk about the HCV stigma, red tape and sometimes frustrated case workers. What I don’t understand for those that work in social service why do they have such a negative attitude I understand the stress that is involved but despite the stress they’re supposed to be there to help..to serve.
But it seems even your own caseworkers themselves believe the HCV stigma that may exist in some but they fail to look at someone like me a true example of a mother who has taken responsibility for her family no matter how many children I have…I work every day and I don’t take more than I need to help me through…we go without until I can earn what we need…in fact since I’ve been on the HCV program I’ve received no more than $150 a month in assistance..and for the last 4 months I’ve been paying my own rent. However, there are those that are still under the Certificate System and are getting a flat amount towards their rent. I don’t know what the solution is to be honest to really help those that are truly trying to help themselves. But I can definitely say just coming across this forum and the information provided here has given me hope and encouragement. So keep the faith Sharonda and keep reaching out looking at these types of sites.
Everything seemed to go well with my appointment, I have a voucher in hand and my information is being faxed to Georgia and I’m hoping things will go fine from here..if not I’m prepared with my rebuttals and even have a backup plan. And I have to say I take offense to those who stigmatize programs such as the HCV because I happen to be a taxpayer which is evident when I receive the NET of what I earn..and I feel that as a taxpayer I have a right to access the benefits of what I invested especially when it comes to making sure my children are provided with the best opportunities for a successful future. And that’s what it should be about
June 10, 2007 at 9:52 pm |
When you know that someone is abusing Section 8, Who do we notifiy??
June 11, 2007 at 5:08 pm |
Could anyone help to clarify how lump sum distribution are handled during income verification appointment? I was trying to get an understanding from the Housing Choice Voucher Handbook and the regulations, but I want to make sure I’m understanding it. I know initially they counted the money that was going into my pension account as an asset because I was not allowed to access it while I was employed. However since I’m no longer working for that employer I can either take a refund or roll it over…well I’m considering taking a refund since I would need that to relocate..and I wanted to know how will that effect things. Thanks for any information.
June 13, 2007 at 8:22 pm |
I’am a single parent of one child. I’am a hcv recipient. I juggle between school and transporting my daughter from one part of town to the next just to take her to a better school than cherryhill middle school ,because of previous assaults from other students. I wanna move from cherryhill to the county, so my daughter can feel comfortable in our environment. My searches for properties that accept the voucher are coming up hopeless… I wish these property owners realize that there are still some people out here on section 8 that do maintain their place of residence, I mean not everyone destroy their home like some people. It’s very fustrating to keep getting e-mail replies stating that they don’t accept the voucher… I’m starting to wonder, what is the point of having this so called help/privilege?
June 15, 2007 at 4:53 am |
Hey ! Janette
I’m moving to georgia and i’m at stage one contacting my casewrker and all, after reading your story i’m somewhat encourged ,excited about the move i’m also happy for you that your transition is on the way, or by now went smoothly and your all settled in and enjoying HOTLANTA….
June 16, 2007 at 2:26 am |
I am very forunate to be on section 8. I thank god for it. I live in south florida where the rents are so high, most are more than the pha pay per month. Not to mention the high security desposits they are asking as well… Are there any agencies that assist with security deposts?
June 18, 2007 at 1:54 pm |
Hey Janette,
I was reading your post and I noticed that you want to move to Atlanta, I wanted to move there too, so I called to the section 8 office there because I am currently unemployed for a little while. I was informed that you have to be employed before you can be accepted to move there. Although I am trying to reseach it more, I thought I would let you know what I was told by the section 8 office there.
Christine
June 23, 2007 at 5:23 am |
Janetta, you remind me alot of myself. you have to do your own research alot of times. I thank God for Section 8. I am a divorced hardworking mother of four. Thank God I only had to wait one month before recieving my voucher after being in a domestic violence shelter . I would like to encourage everyone that is losing hope and frustrated with social workers….Don’t. Keep researching, making calls, whatever you have to do until your voucher is in hand. I understand exactly how you feel, they sometimes talk to you with disrespect or others just simply stereotype. Don’t let that discourage any of you. We are all just trying to make a nice life for our children and ourselves.
June 24, 2007 at 3:52 pm |
6-24-2007
hello everyone, i am thinking about moving to your city and sate of Avondale, AZ.
and i am on section 8 with 2 dogs, and right now i am living iin california on section 8 with my 2 dogs, my question is these 2 dogs are my family and i just cant put then down or leave them.
so are pets allowed to reside on section 8 as well , please be nice but be honest, thanks so very much,
joanne from california
June 24, 2007 at 4:36 pm |
Are pets allowed in the HCV program? Sure… The program has no rules governing pets. It’s up the owner/manager you lease from. Many allow pets with a pet deposit. Really, it’s no different than renting from any one else anywhere else… read your lease before you sign it.
June 24, 2007 at 4:44 pm |
Armand, if you know someone is abusing the section 8 program… Please report them to your local housing authority. If the fraud can be verified your PHA is likely to revoke the voucher from whomever is taking advantage of the system.
October 5, 2007 at 1:01 am |
FMR (Fair Market Rent) will determine what your Secion 8 voucher will be worth. This is based on the size of the family, age of siblings. The cost of living varies from state-to-state and so will your voucher.
October 6, 2007 at 9:33 pm |
my parents are on section 8 and are currently living in a horrible neighborhood. i do not live with them, but would like to help them live in a safer area. if i find them a place in a nicer neighborhood, and the rent is more than the amount that they are allocated, will the HCV program allow me to pay the difference in rent for them?