Housing Choice Voucher Portability Information

What is Portability? 

Portability is the process that allows eligible Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) participants to transfer their rental assistance to a different Public Housing Authority (PHA) jurisdiction in the United States. 

Porting OUT of Our Agency 

If you currently receive a voucher from our agency and wish to move to another jurisdiction: 

Steps to Port Out: 

• Submit a written request to port out with your notice to vacate form to your assigned specialist. 

• Ensure you are lease-compliant and up to date on your rent and responsibilities. 

• You must have lived in our jurisdiction for at least 12 months, or applied as a resident. 

• Our staff will send your portability packet to the receiving PHA within 10 business days. 

Important Notes: 

• You must continue to comply with all program requirements until you lease in your new location. 

• Delays may occur if paperwork is incomplete or if the receiving PHA has special policies. 

• To request portability, please email: port@dhcmi.org or contact your assigned case manager. 

Porting INTO Our Agency 

If you have a voucher from another PHA and would like to move to our jurisdiction: 

Receiving Portability Requests: 

Please have your housing authority send your portability packet to: port@dhcmi.org Attention: Portability Specialist 

What to Expect: 

• Once we receive your packet, we will contact you within 10 business days to schedule an intake. 

• You will receive a briefing email. (Please check your spam folder). 

• You may be issued a new voucher based on our local subsidy standards. 

• The Detroit Housing Commission is currently billing all incoming portability clients. 

• Our inspection team must approve any unit before move-in. 

For more information about porting into our jurisdiction, contact us at: port@dhcmi.org  

Additional Information:

We recommend starting the portability process at least 45-60 days before your intended move date. 

All processing is done in accordance with HUD regulations and may vary depending on the PHA.