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For Tennesseans facing financial hardship, securing Tennessee rent relief is a critical lifeline for maintaining housing stability. The stress of potential eviction due to job loss, medical emergencies, or other unexpected circumstances creates an urgent need for clear, reliable information.
While many large-scale, pandemic-era emergency rental assistance programs have concluded, a network of state, county, and non-profit support systems remains available. Understanding where to turn and what steps to take is the first move toward securing the assistance needed to stay in your home. This resource provides a detailed overview of available programs, eligibility requirements, and immediate actions you can take.
When facing a housing crisis, taking swift and strategic action can make a significant difference. The following steps are designed to connect you with immediate support and prepare you for the application process for various assistance programs.
Your First Call for Help: Dialing 2-1-1
The most critical first step for any Tennessee resident seeking rent or utility assistance is to contact the statewide 2-1-1 service. This free, confidential helpline is operated by the United Way and serves as the central access point for social services across the state. When major state-run programs ended, they began directing all inquiries to 2-1-1.
The service functions as a triage center, connecting individuals with local agencies and non-profits that have active funding. Trained operators will assess your situation and provide targeted referrals for housing, food, and other essential needs.
Information to Have Ready for Your 2-1-1 Call
To make your call as effective as possible, be prepared to provide the following information:
You can reach this service by dialing 2-1-1 from any phone or by visiting their website at 211.org.
Communicating with Your Landlord
Open and honest communication with your landlord or property manager is a crucial, proactive step. As soon as you anticipate difficulty paying rent, inform them of your situation. It is especially important to let them know that you are actively seeking and applying for rental assistance programs. Some landlords may be willing to work with you on a payment plan or temporarily halt eviction proceedings if they know that funds from an assistance agency may be forthcoming.
Gathering Essential Documents for Your Application
Nearly all rent and utility assistance programs require documentation to verify eligibility. Gathering these papers ahead of time can significantly speed up the application process and prevent delays.
Commonly Required Documents
While requirements may vary slightly between agencies, most will ask for the following:
Even if you cannot locate every document, you should still apply. Some programs may allow you to submit a sworn statement in place of certain papers. The most important step is to begin the application process.
While many programs are administered locally, several key resources are available to residents across Tennessee. These are often funded by the federal government and managed by state agencies or a network of legal service providers.
Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) Ongoing Programs
The Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) is the state's housing finance agency and plays a central role in administering federal housing funds. While its widely known COVID-19 Rent Relief program has ended, THDA continues to manage other vital programs that support housing stability.
Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG) Program
THDA administers the federally funded Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG) Program, which distributes funds to local governments and non-profit organizations. The goal of the ESG program is to help people quickly regain stability in permanent housing after a housing crisis.
These funds can be used for a variety of services, including:
To access help through the ESG program, you must contact a local provider in your area. The 2-1-1 helpline is the best resource for identifying these local providers.
Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program (Section 8)
For long-term housing stability, the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program, commonly known as Section 8, is a key federal resource. This program provides rental assistance to eligible low-income individuals and families, allowing them to afford decent housing in the private market. Participants typically pay 30-40% of their adjusted income toward rent, with the voucher covering the remainder.
Eligibility is primarily based on total annual gross income and family size, and applicants must be U.S. citizens or have eligible immigration status. THDA administers the HCV program in 72 of Tennessee's 95 counties, while other local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) manage it in major metropolitan areas. Demand for this program is extremely high, and waiting lists are often long.
Legal Aid and Your Right to Counsel
Facing eviction is not just a financial problem; it is a legal one. If you have received an eviction notice or a court summons, it is imperative to seek legal assistance immediately. A network of non-profit legal aid organizations across Tennessee provides free legal services to low-income residents.
How Legal Aid Can Help
These organizations can provide invaluable help by:
The presence of legal counsel can dramatically improve the outcome of an eviction case. Some programs, like Shelby County's Eviction Prevention Program, even include tenant legal services as an eligible form of assistance.
Key Legal Resources in Tennessee
Tennessee Rent Relief Programs at a Glance
The landscape of rental assistance in Tennessee is highly localized. The primary agency and available programs vary significantly by county. The table below serves as a quick reference to help you identify the main point of contact in major metropolitan areas.
| County / Major City | Primary Agency / Program | Key Services Offered | Primary Contact / Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Statewide | Tennessee 2-1-1 | Statewide information and referral for all social services, including rent and utility aid. | Dial 2-1-1 or visit https://www.211-tennessee.org/ |
| Statewide | THDA - ESG Program | Homelessness prevention, rapid re-housing, rental arrears (through local partners). | 800-228-THDA or visit https://thda.org/ |
| Nashville / Davidson Co. | Metropolitan Action Commission (MAC) | Emergency rent/mortgage payments, homeless services, utility assistance. | 615-862-8860 or visit https://www.nashville.gov/departments/metro-action |
| Memphis / Shelby Co. | Community Services Agency (CSA) | Emergency rent/mortgage assistance to prevent eviction/foreclosure. | 901-222-4200 or visit https://www.shelbycountycsa.org/ |
| Knoxville / Knox Co. | Knoxville's Community Development Corp. (KCDC) | Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) Program, public housing. | 865-403-1211 or visit https://www.kcdc.org/ |
| Chattanooga / Hamilton Co. | Office of Family Empowerment (OFE) | Case management, financial assistance, community resource referrals. | 423-643-6434 or visit https://chattanooga.gov/services/assistance-programs |
| Clarksville | Neighborhood & Community Services | One-year rental subsidy program for eligible households. | 931-648-6133 or visit(https://www.clarksvilletn.gov/1214/Rental-Assistance-Program) |
| Rutherford County | Rutherford Co. Rental Relief Program | Rental assistance for county residents. | 615-334-4777 or visit https://rutherfordcountytn.gov/rental-relief-program |
Because assistance is now primarily managed at the local level, knowing the key agencies in your area is essential. The following sections provide a detailed breakdown of resources in Tennessee's largest population centers.
Nashville and Davidson County
Nashville residents have access to a robust network of government and non-profit organizations providing housing assistance.
Metropolitan Action Commission (MAC)
MAC is the primary community action agency for Davidson County, administering a range of household assistance programs. Applicants must be county residents and meet federal income guidelines. MAC has a universal online application portal to streamline the process.
Key programs include:
Local Non-Profits in Nashville
Several non-profits partner with or work alongside MAC to provide additional layers of support.
Memphis and Shelby County
Housing assistance in Memphis and Shelby County is primarily coordinated through the county's Community Services Agency (CSA), with a very specific and time-sensitive application process.
Community Services Agency (CSA)
The CSA runs the Comprehensive Emergency Assistance Program to help residents with past-due rent or mortgage payments. To qualify, applicants must be a Shelby County resident, be behind on payments, and have experienced a job loss or documented unexpected expense within the last 180 days.
The application process is unique and requires careful attention:
Other Local Programs in Memphis
Knoxville and Knox County
Following the end of large-scale pandemic relief programs, Knoxville's resources are now channeled through its primary housing and community action agencies.
Knoxville's Community Development Corporation (KCDC)
KCDC is the public housing authority for Knoxville and Knox County. Its primary role is administering long-term programs like the Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) Program. KCDC accepts online applications for its HCV program from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the second Wednesday of every month. KCDC also manages special purpose vouchers for specific populations, such as veterans (VASH).
Knoxville-Knox County Community Action Committee (KnoxCAC)
Knox CAC is a broad social services agency that serves as a key resource hub. While it may not provide direct rental assistance, it helps residents regain stability through case management and supportive services. Knox CAC is the primary administrator for utility assistance programs like LIHEAP and Project Help, which can free up household funds to pay rent. For referrals to all local assistance, Knox CAC directs residents to East Tennessee 2-1-1.
Chattanooga and Hamilton County
The City of Chattanooga and local non-profits provide a range of support services for residents facing housing instability.
Office of Family Empowerment (OFE)
The city's OFE provides support through a case management model. It works with Hamilton County residents to foster economic mobility, which can include providing financial assistance and connecting families with community resources for housing, education, and employment. The OFE also runs the county's Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
Local Partners and Non-Profits
Other Notable Local Programs
Beyond the four major metropolitan areas, several other cities and counties operate their own rental assistance programs.
Across Tennessee, non-profit and faith-based organizations are on the front lines, filling gaps left by government programs and providing crucial emergency support.
The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army's Kentucky and Tennessee Division offers emergency rent and utility assistance as a core part of its mission to prevent homelessness. Local service centers work with individuals and families to assess their needs and provide timely financial aid. This assistance is aimed at those who have experienced a sudden life change, such as a job loss, as well as seniors on fixed incomes.
Catholic Charities
Catholic Charities provides emergency assistance in various regions of Tennessee, including the Diocese of Nashville. Based on the availability of funds, they can offer short-term help with overdue rent and utility payments for families experiencing a crisis.
Other Community Action Agencies
In addition to the major agencies in urban centers, smaller community action agencies serve many of Tennessee's rural counties. For example, the Southwest Human Resource Agency (SWHRA) provides a one-time emergency rent program for eligible applicants with past-due rent in its service area. Contacting 2-1-1 is the best way to find the community action agency that serves your specific county.
Often, a rental crisis is accompanied by a utility crisis. An inability to pay for electricity, gas, or water can lead to shut-offs and compound financial stress. Several statewide programs are specifically designed to help with these costs, which can in turn free up household funds for rent.
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
LIHEAP is a federally funded program that helps low-income households with their home energy bills. In Tennessee, the program is overseen by THDA and administered through a network of 19 local agencies that cover all 95 counties.
Key Features of LIHEAP
Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP)
Similar to LIHEAP, LIHWAP is a program designed to assist low-income households with their water and wastewater bills. This program can provide one-time assistance to households that have past-due water bills or are facing disconnection. It is administered by the same network of 19 local agencies across Tennessee.
Local Utility and Charity Programs
In addition to federal programs, many local utility companies partner with charitable organizations to offer their own assistance funds. These are often funded by customer donations.
Examples include:
It is always worthwhile to contact your specific utility provider directly to inquire about any available payment plans or emergency assistance programs.
The Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) manages federal housing programs. While the COVID-19 emergency fund is closed, THDA oversees the long-term Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8), which provides rental subsidies to eligible low-income residents across the state.
For immediate assistance, contact your county's Community Action Agency or non-profits like The Salvation Army. These local organizations often have emergency funds dedicated to providing rapid Tennessee rent relief to prevent eviction for households in crisis.
Yes. THDA programs and Community Action Agencies serve all 95 Tennessee counties, including rural areas. USDA Rural Development also offers housing programs specifically for residents outside of major metro areas, ensuring access to financial support for rent.
Eligibility depends on your household's total gross income and family size, which must fall within HUD's low-income limits for your county. Applicants must also be U.S. citizens or eligible non-citizens. Your local Public Housing Agency (PHA) manages applications.
If denied, you have the right to an appeal. The denial notice will explain the reason and the deadline for filing your appeal. For free help understanding your rights and navigating this process, contact your regional Legal Aid Society.
Yes, federal programs like Section 202 (Supportive Housing for the Elderly) and Section 811 (Supportive Housing for Persons with Disabilities) offer subsidized housing. Contact your local PHA or the THDA for information on these specialized rent relief options.
Many emergency assistance programs include funds for utilities like electricity, water, and gas. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is specifically designed to help households manage energy costs and often works alongside rental support programs.
Some programs provide preventative assistance. You must typically demonstrate a clear risk of future homelessness, such as having received an eviction notice or proof of a major income loss that will prevent you from paying your next month's rent.
Tenants can receive free legal services from organizations like the Legal Aid Society of Middle Tennessee, West Tennessee Legal Services, or Legal Aid of East Tennessee. They provide advice and representation to help stop evictions while you secure rent relief.
The Tennessee Association of Community Action maintains a statewide directory on its official website. You can visit their site to find your local agency by searching by county. These agencies are essential hubs for accessing various forms of financial assistance.
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