“Portability” in the HCV program refers to the process through which the family can transfer or “port” their rental subsidy when they move to a location outside the jurisdiction of the public housing agency (PHA) that first gave them the voucher when they were selected for the program.

New families may not be able to port immediately; they may have to live in the jurisdiction of the initial PHA for a year before they can port. Initial PHAs may allow moves during this one-year period.

• Initial PHAs -The PHA that first gave the voucher to the individual when they were selected for the program.
• Receiving PHAs– The agency that will administer assistance in the area to which the individual moves.