What You Should Know About Section 8 Vouchers in Tennessee

At AMAC, we believe that every family—regardless of background—deserves a safe, stable place to call home. For vulnerable community members, including Muslim and immigrant families across Davidson County, Section 8 vouchers are a critical tool to make that possible.

If you or someone you know has a Section 8 voucher, here’s what you need to know to protect your rights and keep your housing secure.

---

What is a Section 8 Voucher?

Section 8 is a rental assistance program that helps low-income families pay for housing. With a voucher:

• You pay about 30% of your monthly income toward rent.

• The government pays the rest directly to your landlord.

• You can take the voucher with you when you move—this is called "tenant-based" assistance.

Some buildings offer “project-based” Section 8. That means the subsidy stays with the apartment, not the tenant. If you move out, the help doesn’t follow you.

Your Responsibilities as a Section 8 Tenant

To keep your voucher, make sure you:

• Find a place to live within 60 days of receiving your voucher. If you need more time, ask for an extension before it expires.

• Recertify every year and report any changes in income or household size.

• Pay your share of rent on time each month.

• Report repairs in writing to both your landlord and Section 8 caseworker.

• Avoid lease violations or unsafe behavior—including actions by your guests.

Can I Move Without Losing My Voucher?

Yes—but follow these steps:

• Give written notice to your landlord and Section 8 caseworker when your lease ends.

• If you’ve reported repairs in writing and your landlord refuses to fix them, you should be able to move and keep your voucher. Make sure Section 8 is aware and documents the issue.

When Can Section 8 Take Away My Voucher?

Only for a specific reason, such as:

• Not reporting income or changes to your household.

• Damaging your home or threatening others.

• Staying away from your home for more than 14 days without telling your landlord and caseworker.

• If your unit fails inspection and you don’t move within the required timeline.

If you get a notice that your voucher is being terminated:

• You have the right to a grievance hearing. Ask for it within 10 days.

• Bring any evidence you have.

• If you lose your voucher, you’ll be responsible for the full rent—and your landlord could try to evict you.

Know This: Your Landlord CANNOT...

Even if you fall behind on rent, your landlord can’t:

• Change your locks,

• Turn off your lights or water,

• Or put your belongings on the street—without going to court first.

If you get court papers, go to court—not showing up means you automatically lose your case.

If You or Someone You Know is Facing Housing Discrimination, Call:

AMAC Hotline: 615-988-6460

Nashville Hispanic Bar Association: 615-701-7957

Section 8 helps many in our community stay rooted. But to keep this support, you need to know your rights and stay informed.

Want to learn more about your rights as a tenant in Nashville?

Visit www.amactn.org/tenant-rights-nashville to access free resources in 8 different languages, including Arabic, Kurdish, Somali, and Spanish.

Whether you’re looking for help with housing repairs, understanding Section 8, or navigating rent support programs like the ERTC, AMAC is here to support you and your family. Knowledge is power—know your rights, protect your home.