How do I know when a Section 8 waiting list is open in Tennessee?

The best way is to check your local PHA website or contact them directly. Agencies like THDA announce openings on their official site.

What documents do I need to apply for Section 8?

You will likely need birth certificates, social security cards, proof of all sources of income, and citizenship or immigration documents for each household member.

Can I transfer my Section 8 voucher to another county or state?

Yes, you may transfer your voucher to another area through the portability process after meeting specific requirements. Ask your PHA for instructions.

Does Section 8 cover the entire rent amount?

No, renters usually pay about 30% of their adjusted gross income toward rent; Section 8 covers the rest.

Who can I contact if I disagree with a Section 8 decision?

Contact the Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) for grievance and appeals about Section 8 decisions.

Step-by-Step Guide: Applying for Section 8 in Tennessee

Affordable Housing & Rental Assistance Tennessee published June 21, 2025

Finding affordable housing in Tennessee can be challenging, but the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program is designed to help qualifying renters find safe homes within their budget. This article offers a clear, step-by-step overview of applying for Tennessee Section 8, including eligibility, official forms, and helpful state resources.

Understanding Section 8 in Tennessee

Section 8, also called the Housing Choice Voucher program, is federally funded and managed locally by public housing agencies (PHAs) across Tennessee. If accepted, you receive a voucher to help pay rent directly to a private landlord. Your rent is typically based on your income—usually around 30% of your monthly adjusted earnings.

Who Is Eligible for Section 8?

Eligibility is based on your household income, family size, citizenship status, and rental history. In Tennessee, most applicants must:

Be a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen
Have a household income below HUD limits for your area (see current income limits)
Meet background screening requirements (including rental history and criminal activity checks)

Always check specific requirements with your local housing authority, as waiting lists and preferences can differ by county or city.

How to Apply for Section 8 in Tennessee: Step-by-Step

Applying for Section 8 can seem overwhelming, but the process is straightforward when broken down. Here are the practical steps to help you get started:

Find Your Local PHA: Section 8 is managed by local Public Housing Agencies (PHAs). Use the HUD Tennessee PHA directory to identify which agency serves your community.
Check Waiting List Status: Many waiting lists open periodically, and some are closed for long periods. Contact your chosen PHA or visit their website to check.
Obtain and Complete the Application Form: Each PHA application is slightly different. The most common form you'll use is the "Housing Choice Voucher Program Pre-Application." For example, the Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) provides a Section 8 online application portal when lists are open.
Prepare Required Documents: Gather identifying documents such as social security cards, income statements, birth certificates, and citizenship/immigration proof for all household members.
Submit Your Application: Submit either online through the PHA website, by mail, or in-person as directed. Applications must include all required documents to be valid.
Wait for Determination: The PHA will process your application, confirm your eligibility, and notify you of your status. Most applicants are placed on a waiting list. When your name comes up, you must complete a formal eligibility review.

Official Forms Used in the Application Process

Housing Choice Voucher Program Pre-Application
This is the initial form to get on the Section 8 waiting list for your local PHA. For example, THDA uses their online pre-application portal.
Example: Maria, a Memphis renter, completes the THDA online pre-application when the waitlist opens. She must submit proof of income, identity, and household details to be considered.
THDA Tenant Eligibility Packet
Once selected from the waiting list, you'll fill out this detailed packet for income verification. The THDA provides these forms directly when they contact you.
Example: After her spot comes up, Maria receives this eligibility packet from THDA by mail and must submit updated pay stubs and child support records.

Each local PHA may have unique forms or document requests—always follow your PHA's instructions carefully.

After You've Applied: What Happens Next?

Once you're on a waiting list, you may wait months or even years for an available voucher, depending on demand. When selected:

You will be contacted by the PHA to complete the eligibility review
If approved, you'll attend a briefing on how Section 8 works in Tennessee
You then search for housing that meets Section 8 requirements, and your chosen home must pass a housing quality inspection by the PHA
The PHA calculates your share of the rent, and the voucher payment goes directly to your landlord

Tip: Always notify your PHA immediately if your contact information or household size changes while on the waitlist. Missing communications may delay your voucher offer.

Tennessee Residential Tenancy Tribunal and State Legislation

The Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) administers Section 8 statewide and handles official complaints and hearings for voucher issues.

Your basic renter rights in Tennessee are protected under the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act (Tennessee Code Annotated Title 66, Chapter 28)¹.

Quick Recap

Understanding the basics can help you plan and protect your rights during your housing search. Always communicate promptly with the housing agency and keep records of all submitted forms and documents.

FAQs about Section 8 in Tennessee

How do I know when a Section 8 waiting list is open in Tennessee?
The best way is to check your local PHA website or contact them directly. Major agencies like the THDA often announce waitlist openings on their official site.
What documents do I need to apply for Section 8?
You will likely need birth certificates, social security cards, proof of all sources of income, and citizenship or immigration documents for every household member.
Can I transfer my Section 8 voucher to another county or state?
Yes, after meeting certain requirements, you can “port” (transfer) your voucher to another area through the portability process. Ask your PHA for transfer instructions.
Does Section 8 cover the entire rent amount?
No, you are usually responsible for about 30% of your adjusted gross income toward rent; Section 8 covers the remaining approved portion.
Who can I contact if I disagree with a Section 8 decision?
The Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) offers a grievance and appeal process. Contact THDA Section 8 for more information.

Conclusion: What Renters Should Remember

Start by finding your local PHA and checking their Section 8 waitlist status
Prepare and submit all documents fully and on time, and keep contact information up to date
Know your rights under Tennessee's landlord-tenant laws and keep records throughout the application process

The Section 8 journey can be long, but using official resources and taking careful action at each step makes the process smoother and helps protect your housing rights.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) Section 8 Office: Main statewide agency for questions about vouchers, forms, waiting lists, and grievances
HUD Tennessee Renting Information: Federal info and city/county PHA contacts
Tenant Rights under the Uniform Residential Landlord and Tenant Act: Official summary of Tennessee renter rights
Tennessee Consumer Affairs: For complaints about housing discrimination or unfair practices