Housing Assistance Resources in Tennessee

Last updated September 5, 2026

If you're struggling to pay rent, facing eviction, or experiencing homelessness in Tennessee, you are not alone — and real help exists. Tennessee's network of state agencies, federally funded programs, and nonprofit partners can connect you with emergency rental assistance, transitional housing, utility support, and long-term affordable housing options. The fastest first step for most people is calling 2-1-1 Tennessee (dial 2-1-1 or text your zip code to 898-211), a free, confidential helpline available 24/7 that can identify local resources based on exactly where you live.

Tenants facing eviction have specific legal protections under Tennessee law, and timelines matter — if you've received an eviction notice, reach out for help immediately. HUD-approved housing counseling agencies in Tennessee can advise you on your rights, help you negotiate with landlords, and connect you to emergency rental funds. These services are free to residents and available across the state, including in rural areas.

Certain groups — including veterans, older adults, survivors of domestic violence, and people with disabilities — may qualify for specialized housing programs with dedicated funding and case management support. Scroll down to explore key programs, or call 2-1-1 to speak with a live specialist who can match you with options in your county.

Key programs in Tennessee

2-1-1 Tennessee

Tennessee's statewide information and referral service that connects callers to local housing assistance, emergency shelter, rental aid, utility help, food programs, and more — all in one call.

How to access: Dial 2-1-1, text your zip code to 898-211, or visit tn.211.org. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, in multiple languages. Free and confidential.

HUD Continuum of Care (CoC) — Tennessee

Federally funded network coordinating emergency shelter, transitional housing, rapid rehousing, and permanent supportive housing for individuals and families experiencing homelessness across Tennessee.

How to access: Access is typically through a local Coordinated Entry system. Call 2-1-1 or visit HUD's resource locator at hud.gov to find your local CoC contact. Each region of Tennessee (e.g., Memphis, Nashville, Knoxville, rural East/West TN) has its own CoC lead agency.

Tennessee Department of Human Services (TDHS) — Rental and Utility Assistance

TDHS administers federal and state-funded assistance programs that may include emergency rental assistance and the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which helps eligible low-income households pay heating and cooling costs — reducing the risk of utility shutoff that can destabilize housing.

How to access: Apply online through the Tennessee Benefits portal at tnfoods.hss.tn.gov or visit your local TDHS county office. You can also call 2-1-1 to be connected to LIHEAP intake in your county, as enrollment periods and availability vary by location.

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) — HUD-VASH and SSVF Programs

Veterans experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness in Tennessee may qualify for HUD-VA Supportive Housing (HUD-VASH), which combines rental assistance (Housing Choice Vouchers) with VA case management, or Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF), which provides short-term financial assistance and housing support.

How to access: Contact the nearest VA Medical Center in Tennessee (located in Memphis, Nashville, Murfreesboro, Mountain Home, and other sites) or call the National Call Center for Homeless Veterans at 1-877-4AID-VET (1-877-424-3838), available 24/7.

Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA)

THDA is the state's housing finance agency, overseeing the federal Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) program, the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program (which funds affordable rental developments), and HUD-approved housing counseling agencies statewide that offer free advice on renting, eviction prevention, and homeownership.

How to access: Visit thda.org to find HUD-approved counseling agencies in Tennessee, learn about affordable housing developments, or understand voucher programs. Voucher waitlists are managed by local Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) — contact your local PHA or call 2-1-1 for the nearest office.

Housing Assistance resources for Tennessee

211 Housing & Shelter

Nationwide

Local shelter, rental, and housing assistance referrals. Dial 211.

211
Visit

HUD Housing Counseling

Nationwide

Free HUD-approved housing counseling on rent, foreclosure, homelessness, and fair housing.

1-800-569-4287
Visit

National Low Income Housing Coalition

Nationwide

Resources and local referrals for affordable housing and rental assistance.

Visit
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