How to Apply for Section 8 Housing in Tennessee? Section 8 Housing, officially called the Housing Choice Voucher Program, is a federal rental assistance program administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and locally managed by Public Housing Authorities (PHAs). In Tennessee, thousands of families rely on Section 8 to access decent, safe, and sanitary housing in the private housing market.
This guide provides a comprehensive explanation of how to apply for Section 8 in Tennessee, including eligibility requirements, application procedures, waiting lists, and how to maintain assistance once granted.
What Is Section 8 Housing in Tennessee?
The Section 8 Housing program offers rental assistance vouchers that cover a portion of a tenant’s rent. Under this program:
- Tenants pay approximately 30% of their adjusted gross monthly income toward rent.
- The remainder of the rent is paid directly to the landlord by the local Public Housing Authority (PHA).
- Tenants can choose their own housing unit (house, apartment, or duplex) as long as it meets HUD’s Housing Quality Standards (HQS) and the landlord agrees to participate.
Types of Section 8 Assistance Available in Tennessee
Tennesseans can access two main types of Section 8 assistance:
Tennessee Vouchers (Housing Choice Vouchers)
These vouchers are transferable and allow tenants to rent from private landlords. Once approved, a family can move anywhere within the U.S. where a PHA administers the program.
Project Vouchers
These vouchers are tied to specific housing units or apartment complexes. You cannot take the subsidy with you if you move.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Section 8 in Tennessee
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
Each PHA checks for the following eligibility criteria:
1. Income Limits
- Income must be at or below 50% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for your household size.
- Priority is given to applicants with income below 30% of the AMI.
The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) sets annual income limits based on county and household size. Starting in 2025, the following are examples:
| County | 1-Person | 2-Person | 4-Person |
|---|---|---|---|
| Davidson (Nashville) | $32,000 | $36,600 | $45,700 |
| Shelby (Memphis) | $26,300 | $30,050 | $37,550 |
Check updated limits here: HUD Income Limits
2. Citizenship Status
- You must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident (qualified alien).
- Mixed-status households may still qualify for partial assistance.
3. Background and Rental History
- Some PHAs deny applicants with certain criminal convictions, especially for drug-related or violent offenses.
- Prior evictions from federally assisted housing may also disqualify you.
4. Family Composition
- Families, single individuals, seniors, and people with disabilities are all eligible.
- PHAs may give preference to certain groups, such as veterans, the elderly, or the homeless.
Step 2: Find Your Local PHA
Once you’re confident you meet eligibility requirements, identify which PHA manages the program in your county or city.
- Visit HUD’s PHA Contact Page
- Search by state and county
- Contact the PHA via phone or website for current program updates
Example: If you live in Knoxville, you’ll apply through KCDC. If you’re in rural areas not served by a city PHA, apply through THDA.
Step 3: Monitor Waiting List Status
Most public health agencies in Tennessee maintain waiting lists due to high demand. Waiting lists can include:
- Always open (rare)
- Temporarily open for a limited time (common)
- Closed indefinitely, reopening every 6–24 months
To stay updated:
- Subscribe to email alerts on your PHA’s website
- Follow PHAs on social media
- Visit local libraries or community centers for notice postings
Tip: You can apply to multiple PHAs across Tennessee to improve your chances.
Step 4: Submit the Application
Once the waiting list opens, complete the application either:
- Online
- In-person at the PHA office
- By mail or email (depending on the PHA)
You will need:
- Legal names and birthdates of all household members
- Social Security numbers
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status
- Proof of income (tax returns, pay stubs, SSI/SSDI statements, child support, etc.)
- Asset documentation (bank statements, retirement accounts)
- Proof of any qualifying conditions (disability, veteran status, domestic violence)
Special Note on Accommodations
If someone in your household has a disability, PHAs must provide reasonable accommodations during the application process.
Step 5: Complete the Interview and Verification Process
After submission, the PHA may:
- Conduct an interview (in person or over the phone)
- Verify all information through third parties (employers, banks, social agencies)
- Conduct background and criminal record checks
You may be asked to provide additional documents. Failure to comply can lead to disqualification.
Step 6: Placement on the Waiting List
If approved, you will be placed on the waiting list. Your position on the list depends on:
- Time of application
- Preference points (veterans, homelessness, local residency, etc.)
You must update your contact information if you move or change your phone number. PHAs remove applicants they cannot contact.
Waiting times vary:
- In rural areas: 6 months to 2 years
- In cities like Memphis or Nashville: 2–5 years or longer
Step 7: Receive Your Housing Voucher
Once your name comes up on the list, you will:
- Be contacted to attend a briefing session
- Receive your Housing Choice Voucher
- Learn how to search for eligible housing units
- Be given a deadline (usually 60 to 120 days) to find a place
Step 8: Find and Secure a Rental Unit
You can use your voucher at:
- Apartments
- Duplexes
- Single-family homes
- Some mobile homes
The unit must:
- Pass a HUD inspection
- Be within rent limits (called Fair Market Rent or FMR)
- Be managed by a landlord who agrees to participate
You’ll sign a lease with the landlord, and the PHA will pay its share directly to the property owner.
Additional Resources and Contacts
- Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA): https://thda.org
- HUD’s PHA Directory: https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/public_indian_housing/pha/contacts
- Legal Aid of Tennessee: Offers free legal help if you’re denied assistance or facing housing issues – https://las.org
- 211 Tennessee (United Way): Call 2-1-1 or visit https://tn211.mycommunitypt.com for housing referrals and emergency help.
Conclusion
Applying for Section 8 Housing in Tennessee can be a complex and time-consuming process, but for low-income families, it provides life-changing support. The key is preparation: gather documents, stay informed, and act quickly when waiting lists open. Be persistent and apply to multiple PHAs if possible.
With the right approach and follow-through, you can secure affordable, stable housing that allows your family to focus on a better future. additional resources
