What Oak Ridge Housing Authority Does

Oak Ridge Housing Authority (ORHA) is a public agency that administers housing programs in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. It manages public housing units, administers the Housing Choice Voucher program (Section 8), and handles other affordable housing information. ORHA does not build or own most of the housing itself — it pays landlords on behalf of tenants who meet income limits, and it maintains a waiting list for public housing.

ORHA operates under federal rules set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). That means the income limits, rent calculations, and approval process follow a national framework, though ORHA staff make local decisions about who gets on the waiting list and when units become available.

The Authority serves residents of Oak Ridge and surrounding areas. If you live outside Oak Ridge, you may still be able to use ORHA's voucher program if you move to an ORHA-participating landlord, but you should contact ORHA directly to confirm your address is in their service area.

Key Takeaways

  • ORHA runs two main programs: public housing (where ORHA owns or controls the building) and Housing Choice Vouchers (where you find a private landlord and ORHA pays part of the rent).
  • Both programs require your household income to fall below a set limit, which varies by family size and changes each year.
  • Waiting lists are typically long and may be closed; contact ORHA to learn whether you can add your name and how long the wait is.
  • You will need proof of income, a Social Security number for each household member, and a valid photo ID to start the process.
  • ORHA staff review your process in person or by phone — there is no online portal where you can check status yourself.

Public Housing vs. Housing Choice Vouchers

ORHA offers two different paths to affordable housing. Public housing means ORHA owns or leases the building, sets the rent (usually 30 percent of your income), and handles maintenance. You live in an ORHA property and follow ORHA lease rules. Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) mean you find your own rental unit from a private landlord, and ORHA pays the landlord a portion of the rent. You pay the rest, usually 30 percent of your income.

Public housing has a shorter waiting list in some areas but less choice about where you live. Vouchers give you freedom to choose your landlord and neighborhood, but you must find a landlord willing to accept the voucher, and the rent cannot exceed ORHA's payment standard for that area. Most people prefer vouchers because they offer more control, but availability depends on ORHA's current funding.

ORHA can tell you which program has an open waiting list and roughly how long the wait is. Some people get on both lists if they want to keep their options open.

Income Limits and Rent Calculations

ORHA sets income limits based on the federal poverty guidelines, adjusted for family size. A single person's limit is lower than a family of four. These limits change each year, usually in April. For example, the limit might be $28,000 for a single person and $45,000 for a family of four, but you must check with ORHA for the current year's numbers because they vary.

Income includes wages, Social Security, disability payments, child support, and unemployment benefits. It does not include food stamps or certain one-time payments. ORHA counts income for all household members age 18 and older, plus any dependents under 18.

Once you are accepted into a program, your rent is calculated as 30 percent of your adjusted gross income. If your income rises, your rent rises. If your income falls, your rent falls. ORHA reviews your income once a year, usually on your lease anniversary date.

How to Contact Oak Ridge Housing Authority

ORHA is located in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. You can reach them by phone, mail, or in person at their main office. The phone number and mailing address are available through the City of Oak Ridge website or by calling 211 (a free referral service that connects you to local housing programs).

When you call, have your Social Security number, date of birth, and current address ready. ORHA staff will tell you whether the waiting list is open, what documents you need to bring, and when you can come in to explore. Many housing authorities require an in-person visit to verify your identity and income.

If the waiting list is closed, ask ORHA when it typically reopens. Some authorities close their lists for several months when they receive many applications. You can also ask to be notified when the list opens again.

Documents You Will Need

ORHA requires proof of identity, income, and residency. Bring a photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) for each household member age 18 and older. You will also need a Social Security card or a letter from Social Security showing your number.

For income, bring recent pay stubs (usually the last 30 days), a letter from your employer, or a tax return if you are self-employed. If you receive Social Security or disability, bring a benefit statement. If you are unemployed, bring a letter from your state unemployment office or a recent bank statement showing deposits.

ORHA may also ask for proof of residency (a utility bill or lease in your name) and a background check authorization form. Ask ORHA for a complete list when you call, because requirements can vary slightly depending on which program you are explore for.

Waiting Lists and Timeline

ORHA maintains separate waiting lists for public housing and vouchers. The waiting list is first-come, first-served, though ORHA gives priority to people experiencing homelessness, people with disabilities, and families with very low income. The wait can range from a few months to several years, depending on how many people are on the list and how many units or vouchers become available.

Once ORHA calls your name and you complete the approval process, you will sign a lease (for public housing) or receive your voucher (for Section 8). The approval process itself usually takes two to four weeks after you submit your process, assuming your documents are complete and your income is within limits.

ORHA will contact you by phone or mail when it is your turn. If you do not respond within a set time (usually 10 to 14 days), ORHA may move to the next person on the list. Keep your contact information current by calling ORHA if you move or change your phone number.

What Happens After You Are Approved

If you are approved for public housing, ORHA will show you available units and you will choose one (or accept the first available unit, depending on ORHA policy). You sign a lease with ORHA, pay your portion of the rent (30 percent of income), and ORHA covers the rest. You are responsible for utilities unless they are included in the lease.

If you are approved for a voucher, you have a set amount of time (usually 60 to 90 days) to find a landlord and a rental unit. The rent cannot exceed ORHA's payment standard for that area. Once you find a unit, the landlord must pass ORHA's inspection, and you sign a lease. ORHA pays the landlord directly each month, and you pay your share (30 percent of income) to the landlord.

In both cases, ORHA conducts an annual inspection and reviews your income each year. If your circumstances change — you earn more money, a household member moves out, or you have a problem with the unit — contact ORHA to report it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the waiting list for Oak Ridge Housing Authority?

The wait varies by program and changes throughout the year. Public housing may have a shorter or longer wait than vouchers, depending on current demand. Call ORHA directly to learn the current wait time for each program. If the list is closed, ask when it typically reopens.

Can I use a Housing Choice Voucher outside of Oak Ridge?

Vouchers are portable, meaning you can move to another city and use your voucher there — but only if the receiving housing authority agrees to accept it. Contact ORHA before you move to confirm the process and to notify them of your new address.

What if my income goes above the limit after I am approved?

ORHA reviews your income annually. If your income exceeds the limit, you may be required to leave the program or pay a higher rent. Some programs allow a temporary income increase before action is taken. Ask ORHA about their income recertification policy.

Do I have to pay a deposit to explore for ORHA housing?

No. ORHA does not charge an process fee or deposit to explore. However, if you are approved for public housing, you may owe a security deposit when you sign the lease, similar to a private rental.

What if I have an eviction or criminal record?

ORHA reviews each process individually. A past eviction or criminal conviction does not automatically disqualify you, but ORHA will consider the details. Contact ORHA to discuss your situation before you explore, so you understand how it may affect your case.