How can we help?
Homelessness
What issue are you facing?
Where to get help
I am at-risk for or currently experiencing homelessness and need immediate help, what should I do?
HUD is not a direct service provider, but HUD supports many organizations that provide housing assistance and/or supportive services to people. For direct assistance, please refer to the following resources:
- For direct assistance dial 2-1-1 and press 6 for homeless services.
- **If you are unable to get a response from 2-1-1 or receive a message that the service is not available from your location, you may go to: https://www.211.org/about-us/your-local-211 and enter your zip code to find the number for your local office.
- If you are homeless or on the brink of losing your housing, please call the Homeless Assistance Hotline at (888) 556-0791 (within Anderson, Blount, Campbell, Claiborne, Cocke, Grainger, Hamblen, Jefferson, Loudon, Monroe, Sevier, or Union county).
- If you don’t see your county listed above select Get Help for assistance in your area or see the county information below:
- A TN Contiuums of Care (CoC) is a regional or local planning body that coordinates housing and services funding for homeless families and individuals, primarily using funding received through U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
- Contact a Tennessee homeless service provider
- Davidson County:
- Knox County:
- Rutherford County:
- Shelby County:
- If you are in need of immediate emergency shelter, call the Shelby County, TN homeless 24-hour hotline at (901) 529-4545 or visit the Shelby County Homeless Resources for more resources.
- For additional Tennessee Homeless Information and Resources visit: HUD Homeless Information: Tennessee.
I am experiencing domestic violence, what are my options?
- If you are in danger, please call 911 or a national hotline. HUD is not a direct service provider and does not provide individual counseling, crisis response, or legal services to individuals who have experienced domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, stalking, and/or human trafficking.
- National Hotline: Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or TYY: 1-800-787-3224
- Or text “START” to 88788
- Tennessee Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-356-6767
- For more information and to connect to a local service provider in your area, please see Tennessee Domestic Violence Help or Help for Survivors.
- If you are in Tennessee, review your rights and options here.
I am a veteran and at-risk for or currently experiencing homelessness, what should I do?
- Need immediate help? Call 1-877-4AID-VET (1-877-424-3838) for 24/7 assistance.
- Contact the VA medical center in your area and mention your interest in Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH) or find instructions for contacting the National Homeless Veteran Call Center here.
- Check the resources available from the National Coalition for Homeless Veterans.
- Check the resources available from the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County: Veterans Homeless Shelters Directory
I need more help, what else may be available for me?
- Apply for Temporary Assistance: temporary help for needy adults, and children. If you are unable to work, can't find a job, or your job does not pay enough, TA may be able to help you pay for your expenses.
- Find your local food bank.
- Contact your local United Way for help finding shelter, food, and other resources in your area.
- For a full list of programs available in Tennessee (adult education, employment services, SNAP benefits, Veterans, workforce development, etc.) visit:
- TN Virtual American Job Center (tnvirtualajc.com)
- Confused about what services are available to you?
- Visit the TN Department of Labor & Workforce Development site for job resources and information.
- Apply for benefits with the Social Security Administration.
What is Section 3, and what are the requirements in my area?
- Learn more about Section 3 requirements: to promote training, employment, contracting, and other economic opportunities to low- and very low-income persons.
![[Back to Home]](https://www.hud.gov/sites/dfiles/Main/images/icon_home.png "[Back to Home]"){kind=icon}
Affordable Places to Live
What issue are you facing?
Where to get help
I am in search of affordable places to live, where can I get help?
HUD is not a direct service provider. For direct assistance, please refer to the following resources:
- Speak to a HUD Approved Housing Counselor for advice on your specific housing needs. Search online for a HUD Approved Housing Counselor near you by entering your zip code or call (800) 569-4287.
- Contact your Local Public Housing Authority to inquire about information about public housing programs (Housing Choice Vouchers HUD Facts, Public Housing).
Find a list of Public Housing Authority contacts by State or call (800) 955-2232 for help to find your local Public Housing Authority. - Use the HUD Resource Locator to find affordable housing opportunities near you.
**Please note, the HUD Resource Locator does not show property vacancy. Please call the management company to inquire about vacancies, wait lists or the application process.- HUD does not have applications for these properties.
- HUD does not have information about the vacancies in these properties.
- HUD does not maintain waiting lists.
- For help searching for a property in Tennessee call (877) 428-8844 Monday – Friday, 9:00am - 8:00pm CST. Dial 7-1-1 for TTY.
- Or Visit https://www.tnhousingsearch.org/ for up-to-date listings of apartments and homes for rent throughout Tennessee
What additional housing resources (external to HUD) are available to me?
- Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) Properties
The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) is a credit against federal income tax liability each year for 10 years for owners of and investors in affordable rental housing. The amount of tax credits is based on reasonable costs of development, as determined by THDA, and the number of qualified affordable units
For a list of active LIHTC properties visit: Tennessee Low Income Housing Tax Credit Program (arcgis.com)
Contact the Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) for more information at (615) 815-2200. - USDA Rural Development Multifamily Housing
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development (RD) Multifamily Housing programs helps property owners through loans and grants to rehabilitate properties for low-income, elderly, and disabled individuals and families as well as domestic farm laborers. USDA RD Multifamily Rental Assistance Program provides payments to owners of USDA-financed projects on behalf of low-income tenants unable to pay their full rent.
Search for RD Multifamily Housing rentals in Eastern Tennessee and Western Tennessee. For more information dial (615) 783-1300. - Local Listings
TN Housing Search (Properties can be searched by city, county, or zip code. )
Tennessee Income Based Properties
You are also advised to check your local city and/or county’s website for additional affordable housing opportunities
I need rental assistance (i.e. Section 8) from HUD, am I eligible and how do I apply?
HUD has rental assistance and housing resources through the Public Housing and Housing Choice Voucher programs.
- Public Housing provides decent and safe rental housing for eligible low-income families, the elderly and persons with disabilities. HUD provides federal aid to local Public Housing Authorities (PHA) that manage public housing for low-income residents at rents they can afford.
- Eligibility: Public Housing is limited to low-income families and individuals. A Public Housing Authority determines eligibility based on 1) annual gross income, 2) whether you qualify as elderly, a person with disabilities or as a family, and 3) U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status.
- To apply, contact your local Public Housing Authority.
Housing Choice Voucher (commonly known as Section 8)
- The Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program assists low-income families, the elderly, and the disabled to afford decent, safe and sanitary housing in the private market. Housing assistance is provided through HUD on behalf of the family or individual, so participants can find their own housing. You can use an HCV to pay for all or part of the rent.
- Eligibility: A Public Housing Authority will determine eligibility for the housing choice voucher program based on the total annual gross income and family size, U.S. citizenship and specified categories of non-citizens who have eligible immigration status.
- To apply, contact your local Public Housing Authority. During the application process, a Public Housing Authority will collect information on family income, assets and family composition. The Public Housing Authority will use this information to determine program eligibility and the amount of the housing assistance payment.
Homeownership
What issue are you facing?
Where to get help
Where can I get information about becoming a homeowner ?
- Learn more about homebuying from HUD's website or the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
- You may also view the HUD Tennessee Homeownership webpage or explore Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) Programs for local information.
- Speak with a HUD Approved Housing Counselor about becoming a homeowner. A HUD Approved Housing Counseling Agency can offer advice customized to your housing needs. Search online for a HUD Approved Housing Counselor near you by entering your zip code or call HUD's interactive voice system at (800) 569-4287.
How do I learn about Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans and programs?
- Find the answer online
- Email us
- Call toll-free (800) CALL-FHA (800-225-5342)
TTY: Dial 7-1-1 (Not available in all areas)
I am interested in buying a HUD home, where can I find this information?
- Use the HUD Home Store to find HUD homes for sale
I need to know how to pay off my FHA loan, where do I find this information?
- Find Information on my FHA loan
- Use the SMART Integrated Portal to make a request and begin the subordination process (see SMART FAQs & Resources)
- Contact a Secretary-Held Mortgage Servicing Contractor
I need home improvements, what are my options?
- There are various federal loan programs and community-based programs to help with home repairs and improvements. Learn more about HUD’s Home Improvements programs.
- For programs and resources that help homeowners with home repairs and improvements visit:
- Metropolitan Development and Housing Agency Home Repair Programs
- https://thda.org/help-for-homeowners/need-home-repairs
- USDA Rural Development Home Repair
- Housing Programs | Tcac (tcac1.org)
- Currently in Union, Claiborne, and Hamblen Counties and beginning programs in Jefferson and Cocke Counties
- https://home901.org/fix-a-home/ (Memphis and Shelby County)
- Habitat for Humanity of Greater Memphis
- Serves Shelby and Fayette County homeowners age 60 and older
I am facing foreclosure, what can I do?
- Speak with a HUD Approved Housing Counselor about becoming a homeowner. A HUD Approved Housing Counseling Agency can offer advice customized to your housing needs. Search online for a HUD Approved Housing Counselor near you or call (800) 569-4287.
- Explore the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) or the TN Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF)
- Contact HELP4TN for Free Legal Help and Social Services
- State of Tennessee foreclosure resources:
I am worried about lead-based paint, where can I find information about it?
- Lead Based Paint Information
- For information regarding causes, symptoms, and risk factors visit: Healthy Homes – Lead
- City of Memphis Lead Based Paint Department can be reached by calling (901) 636-5323 or visiting their website at:
City of Memphis Lead Based Paint Program - City of Knoxville:
Knoxville Lead Safety and Healthy Homes Program - Visit the Center for Disease Control’s Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention webpage for more information.
Report Housing Discrimination
What issue are you facing?
Where to get help
I need to report housing discrimination, where do I go?
* The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination because of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), familial status, or disability.
* The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination because of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including gender identity and sexual orientation), familial status, or disability.
- Please visit the Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity Page
- File a complaint with HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO) Office:
- Online
- Call: (800) 347-3739
Rent Relief & Eviction Resources
What issue are you facing?
Where to get help
I am facing eviction, what can I do?
HUD supports many organizations that provide housing assistance and/or supportive services to people.
HUD is not a direct service provider. For direct assistance, please refer to the following resources:
- Help4TN provides legal resources and guidance on eviction laws for the State of Tennessee. They can be reached at (844-435-7486). Other options include:
- Legal Help FAQs list common answers to Eviction and Landlord-Tenant problems.
- National Center for State Courts Eviction Resources can be found by visiting the follow webpage: Eviction Prevention Resources
- You may also explore the Tennessee Eviction Prevention Toolkit for additional resources.
I need rental and/or utility payment assistance, where can I get help?
- Speak to a HUD Approved Housing Counselor for advice on your specific housing needs. Search online for a HUD Approved Housing Counselor near you by entering your zip code or call (800) 569-4287.
Local Resources:
Contact Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) at (615) 815-2100 or visit www.thda.org
For local rental assistance please visit Tennessee Rental Help - HUD
Need help paying your energy bill? Click here
If you are in the Middle Tennessee area: Call Metro Action HOPE at 615-862-7368 or visit HOPE Program (Housing, Opportunity, Partnership and Employment) | Nashville.gov or:
If you are in the East Tennessee area: Please visit the agencies below:
- Rental assistance in Knox County Tennessee (Needhelppayingbills.com)
- Knoxville-Knox County Community Action Committee
- https://knoxhousingassistance.org/
If you are in the West Tennessee area: Call 211 or text “home901” to 21000 or visit:
- Rental and Utility Assistance
- Community Services Agency | Shelby County, TN
- City of Memphis Utility Assistance Fund
- Shelby County Community Services Agency (CSA)
- Contact your local government office and find Tennessee Community Service Providers in your area or call (615) 815-2197.
- Contact the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) or call them at (615) 815-2032.
- To assist low-income households with reducing heating and cooling costs, please visit the Weatherization Assistance Program in TN here
Speak to a Housing Counselor
What issue are you facing?
Where to get help
I'd like to speak with a housing counselor, what can they assist me with?
- Becoming a homeowner
- Foreclosure assistance
- Reverse mortgages
- Home improvements/repairs to my home
- Renting
Speak with a HUD Approved Housing Counselor. A HUD Approved Housing Counseling Agency can offer advice customized to your housing needs.
- Search online for a HUD Approved housing counselor near you or call (800) 569-4287, or try the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Tool
Housing Quality & Improved Living Conditions
What issue are you facing?
Where to get help
I am in HUD funded housing, where can I find information about my property/unit inspection?
- Resident Information
- REAC Real Estate Assessment Center
What are housing quality standards?
I am worried about lead-based paint. Where can I find this information?
- Lead Based Paint Information
- For information regarding causes, symptoms, and risk factors visit: Healthy Homes – Lead
- Review HUD's Healthy Homes Tips.
- City of Memphis Lead Based Paint Department can be reached by (901) 636-5323.
- City of Knoxville:
- Visit the Center for Disease Control’s Childhood Lead Poisoning Prevention webpage for more information.
What are my options for home improvement?
- There are various federal loan programs and community-based programs to help with home repairs and improvements. Learn more about HUD’s Home Improvements programs
- USDA Rural Development local office - housing repair and rehabilitation loans
- For programs and resources that help homeowners with home repairs and improvements visit the following links:
- Metropolitan Development and Housing Agency Home Repair Programs
- Home Repairs | THDA
- Housing Programs | Tcac (tcac1.org)
- Currently in Union, Claiborne, and Hamblen Counties and beginning programs in Jefferson and Cocke Counties
- https://home901.org/fix-a-home/ (Memphis and Shelby County)
- Habitat for Humanity of Greater Memphis - Aging in Place/home repair
- Serves Shelby and Fayette County homeowners age 60 and older
- If you have more questions, contact the FHA Resource Center
- Email: answers@hud.gov
- Call: (800) 225-5342
Disaster Resources
What issue are you facing?
Where to get help
I have experienced a disaster and need to register with FEMA. What do I do?
- Immediately after a disaster, FEMA, the U.S. Small Business Administration, and other government agencies offer initial assistance. HUD then provides additional support for ongoing recovery through programs and partnerships.
- To apply for assistance or locate resources visit: FEMA Disaster Assistance
- Disaster assistance | U.S. Small Business Administration (sba.gov)
- Register through FEMA’s disaster app on your smartphone. If you haven’t downloaded the app yet, you can go to www.fema.gov/mobile-app
- Call (800) 621-3362. Phone lines are open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. local time, seven days a week until further notice. Multilingual operators are on duty.
I have experienced a disaster and need to reach out to my Local Red Cross for help. Where do I go?
- Reach out to your local Red Cross using the links below. The Tennessee Region is comprise of 8 local chapters. To find your local chapter’s contact information visit the links below:
- American Red Cross Tennessee Region
- American Red Cross - Fort Campbell or call at (270) 798-2171
I experienced a disaster and need help.
- HUD Disaster Resources
- HUD Disaster Line: Call 1-800-304-9320 or email recovery@hud.gov
- Speak with a HUD Approved Housing Counselor. A HUD Approved Housing Counseling Agency can offer advice customized to your housing needs. Search online for a HUD Approved Housing Counselor near you by entering your zip code or call (800) 569-4287.
My Local Office Information
For assistance at all times, we encourage you to utilize the self-help resources above.
If you are unable to have your questions answered from the resources above, please click on the Need More Help button below to contact your local office for further assistance.
Knoxville Field Office
Dept. of Housing and Urban Development
John J. Duncan Federal Building
710 Locust Street, Suite 300
Knoxville, TN 37902-526
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Phone: (865) 545-4370
TTY: (865) 545-4569
![[Fax Icon]](https://www.hud.gov/sites/dfiles/State/images/icon_fax.png "[Fax Icon]"){kind=icon}
Fax: (865) 545-4559
Walter N. Perry, Field Office Director
Memphis Field Office
Dept. of Housing and Urban Development
200 Jefferson Avenue
Suite 825
Memphis, TN 38103
Phone: (901) 544-3367
TTY: (800) 855-1155
Fax: (901) 544-3697
Walter N. Perry, Field Office Director
Nashville Field Office
Dept. of Housing and Urban Development
U.S. Customs House
701 Broadway, Suite 130
Nashville, TN 37203
Phone: (615) 736-5600
TTY: (866) 803-0264
Fax: (615) 736-7848
Walter N. Perry, Field Office Director
Interested in learning more about what HUD is doing in your community?
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⚠ In Distress? Reach Out for Help Now
At HUD, we know housing challenges often come with other struggles. You’re not alone. These resources can help with safe housing, emergencies, or connecting with someone who will listen.
If you are in immediate danger or need urgent help, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Life’s challenges can sometimes be difficult. If you are feeling overwhelmed, facing mental health struggles, or emotional distress, free support is available any time:
- Call: 988
- Text: 988
- Chat: 988lifeline.org
Trained counselors are here to listen and help, 24/7.
Support for Domestic Violence Survivors. If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, confidential help is available 24/7:
- Call: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- Text: "Start" to 88788
- Visit: The National Domestic Violence Hotline
Mental Health & Substance Use Support. The U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Helpline offers free and confidential support for mental health, drug or alcohol use, and recovery:
- Call: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
- TTY: 1-800-487-4889
- Text: Your ZIP code to 435748
- Visit: SAMHSA's National Helpline
Rental, Homelessness, and Eviction Help. Need help with housing challenges, like eviction, renting, foreclosure, or credit issues?
- Find a Housing Counselor: HUD's Housing Counseling Resources
- Call: 800-569-4287 (or 202-708-1455 for TTY) for multilingual assistance or disaster relief assistance.
- Visit: www.findhelp.org
