Section 8 & Public Housing Waiting Lists in Carthage, Tennessee
All waiting lists in Carthage are currently closed. Section 8 Waitlist monitors 1 housing authority serving Carthage, Tennessee and updates statuses nightly. Below you will find every PHA in the area with current waitlist status, program types, and direct application links.
If no lists are currently open in Carthage, we recommend applying to nearby cities as well. There is no limit to the number of waiting lists you can join, and many housing authorities accept applications from non-residents.
Affordable Housing in Carthage, Tennessee
Carthage, Tennessee is served by 1 housing authority offering federal rental assistance through Section 8 and Public Housing programs. Currently, all waitlists in Carthage are closed. Openings can happen with as little as 48 hours notice, so monitoring is critical. There are also 19 open waitlists within 50 miles that accept applications from non-residents.
Housing programs available in Carthage include Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Public Housing.
Open Lists Nearby
While no waitlists are open in Carthage right now, there are 19 open lists within 50 miles. Most housing authorities accept applications from non-residents, so applying in neighboring cities is a practical strategy. Scroll down to "Nearby Cities" below for options.
About Housing in Carthage, Tennessee
For individuals and families seeking affordable housing assistance in Carthage, Tennessee, services are primarily provided by the South Carthage Housing Authority. This agency administers key programs designed to help low-income residents secure stable housing. Currently, there are approximately 70 assisted housing units in the Carthage area.
The South Carthage Housing Authority offers Public Housing, Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), and Project-Based Vouchers (PBV). While the HCV and PBV waitlists are presently closed, the Public Housing waitlist is open to new applicants. It is important to confirm specific eligibility requirements with the housing authority directly.
Income eligibility is a crucial factor. For a very low-income family of four in the Smith County, TN HUD Metro FMR Area, the current income limit is $41,600 per year for Fiscal Year 2025. The Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) also supports affordable housing initiatives statewide. Prospective applicants should contact the South Carthage Housing Authority for current application procedures and to understand specific program guidelines.
Housing Authorities in Carthage
How to Apply for Section 8 in Carthage
To apply for housing assistance in Carthage, Tennessee, submit an application directly to South Carthage Housing Authority, the housing authority serving this area. All waitlists are currently closed, but openings happen with as little as 48 hours notice. Applications are always free — never pay anyone to apply on your behalf.
Before applying, gather the following documents for all household members: government-issued photo ID, Social Security cards, birth certificates for minors, proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, benefit statements), and proof of current address. For a family of four in this area, income must be below $41,600/year (Very Low Income threshold) to qualify for most programs. Having these ready before a waitlist opens can be the difference between getting on the list and missing the window.
Housing programs available in Carthage include Project-Based Vouchers (PBV), Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers (HCV), Public Housing. Applying to multiple program types simultaneously improves your chances of receiving assistance. After submitting, you will be placed on the waiting list based on the date of your application and any applicable preferences (veterans, elderly, disabled, working families, or local residents).
Carthage, Tennessee Section 8 Income Limits
To qualify for Section 8 or Public Housing in Carthage, Tennessee, your household income must fall within HUD's income limits for the Smith County, TN HUD Metro FMR Area area. A family of four must earn less than $41,600 per year (Very Low Income) to be eligible for most programs. The area median family income is $85,200.
| Household Size | Extremely Low 30% AMI |
Very Low 50% AMI |
Low Income 80% AMI |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Person | $17,500 | $29,150 | $46,600 |
| 2 Persons | $21,150 | $33,300 | $53,250 |
| 3 Persons | $26,650 | $37,450 | $59,900 |
| 4 Persons | $32,150 | $41,600 | $66,550 |
| 5 Persons | $37,650 | $44,900 | $71,900 |
| 6 Persons | $43,150 | $48,250 | $77,200 |
| 7 Persons | $48,650 | $51,600 | $82,550 |
| 8 Persons | $54,150 | $54,900 | $87,850 |
How do income limits affect my eligibility?
Housing authorities in Carthage use these income limits to determine who qualifies for rental assistance. Your total household income before taxes is compared against the limit for your household size.
Very Low Income (50% AMI) — Most Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers and Public Housing programs require your income to be at or below this level. This is the primary eligibility threshold.
Extremely Low Income (30% AMI) — Households at this level often receive priority on waiting lists. By law, housing authorities must allocate a portion of vouchers to extremely low-income families.
Low Income (80% AMI) — Some programs, including Project-Based Vouchers and locally funded initiatives, accept applicants up to this threshold. Contact individual housing authorities below for their specific requirements.
Nearby Cities with Housing Authorities
Applying to nearby cities increases your chances of receiving assistance sooner. These cities are within 75 miles of Carthage and have active housing programs.