MOVING HCV PARTICIPANTS: TIPS FOR A SMOOTH PORTABILITY PROCESS

Just because a Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) participant lives in a certain city does not mean he or she must stay in the area. Through HUD’s Portability Program, voucher participants may relocate, or port, to different locations – even different states. Arizona Quadel’s HCV Manager, Margaret Finn, discusses how the City of Phoenix Housing Department found portability success in Phoenix’s tight housing market, and why HCV participants should take advantage of the program.

Finn describes the Portability Program a “game changer” for families for a number of reasons. Porting to a different jurisdiction can mean moving to areas of High Opportunity, or those with good schools, jobs, and access to public transportation.

Inform Families of Process for Proper Planning

For a port to be successful, Finn said PHA staff must help families plan and ensure they follow the proper processes for both PHAs involved.

“It takes planning to make the portability transition as smooth as possible. We do everything within our control to meet the needs of each family porting into our jurisdiction. We communicate with the initial PHA or family for any missing documents,” Finn said. “Sometimes, families are unfamiliar with the different housing authority requirements. We do our best to provide as much information as possible to help participants understand the portability process so they can make the best choices for their families as they strive for self-sufficiency.”

Keep Lines of Communication Open Between PHAs

Finn emphasized the importance of maintaining open lines of communication between each PHA. The PHAs much confirm receipt of documents to ensure the portability packets are complete so the process can move smoothly and quickly.

“We prefer to send portability packets via encrypted email to ensure the packet is received as quickly as possible. However, we will send it in whatever fashion the other PHA will be able to receive it, Finn said. “It’s important to follow up with the PHA to ensure the packet was received so the tenant can begin working through the voucher process with the new PHA.”

Utilize Technology as a Portability Best Practice

Finn and her team of HCV specialists enjoy helping participants through the portability process because the opportunity “offers so much to families.” In an increased effort to help more families faster, Finn’s team started utilizing technology, including a designated portability email, to shorten the timeline and transition families smoothly.

“Our designated portability email address allows other PHAs to send packets faster and decreases or eliminates the days lost due to mailing. We still accept packets via mail or fax, but we believe the most efficient method of communication,” Finn said. “In addition, we conduct portability briefings online unless there is a specific need or reasonable accommodation. The online briefing reduces travel costs to the participant.”

Quadel works with PHAs to improve program operations through assessments and other technical assistance services. To see how Quadel can help your PHA, request a proposal today.