What the Williamson County Housing Authority does

The Williamson County Housing Authority (WCHA) is a local government agency that runs public housing and the Section 8 voucher program in Williamson County, Tennessee. It does not provide emergency rental information or one-time grants — it manages long-term housing programs where you pay a portion of your rent and the program pays the rest to your landlord. The Authority owns and operates public housing apartments, and it also administers vouchers that let you rent from private landlords while the program subsidizes part of your rent.

WCHA serves residents in unincorporated Williamson County and some incorporated cities within the county, depending on the city's agreement with the Authority. The specific cities and areas covered can change, so calling WCHA directly is the fastest way to confirm whether your address falls within their service area.

Key Takeaways

  • WCHA runs two main programs: public housing (apartments it owns) and Section 8 vouchers (rent subsidies you use at private landlords).
  • Both programs require income verification, a background check, and a lease or rental agreement before you can move in.
  • Section 8 voucher waiting lists are typically closed, and when they open, hundreds of people join within days — call WCHA to learn the current status.
  • Public housing and Section 8 have different rent calculations, but both charge you a percentage of your income and cap your portion at a maximum amount.
  • You can contact WCHA at their main office to ask about current openings, waiting list status, and which neighborhoods have available units.

Public housing through WCHA

WCHA owns and manages apartment complexes throughout Williamson County. When you live in public housing, you pay rent directly to WCHA based on your household income — typically 30 percent of your gross monthly income, though WCHA may adjust this based on local policy. The Authority owns the building, maintains it, and handles all landlord responsibilities.

To move into public housing, you must meet income limits (which vary by household size and are set annually), pass a background check, and sign a lease. WCHA will verify your income using recent pay stubs, tax returns, or benefit statements. The waiting list for public housing varies by location within the county — some complexes may have shorter waits than others, and some may be full. Call WCHA to ask about current availability at specific properties.

Section 8 vouchers and how they work

A Section 8 voucher is a rent subsidy that lets you choose your own apartment from a private landlord, as long as the unit meets WCHA's standards and the rent is reasonable for the area. You find the apartment, negotiate the lease with the landlord, and WCHA pays a portion of the rent directly to the landlord each month. You pay the difference — usually 30 percent of your income — and the landlord receives the rest from the program.

The voucher is portable within the county and to some neighboring areas, meaning you can move and take the voucher with you as long as you stay within the approved region. If you want to move outside that region, you must request a portability transfer, which WCHA must approve. The process can take several weeks, so plan ahead if you are considering a move.

Income limits and rent calculations

WCHA sets income limits based on the area median income for Williamson County. These limits change each year and depend on your household size. A household of one has a lower limit than a household of four. You can call WCHA or visit their office to learn the current year's limits for your household size.

In both public housing and Section 8, you typically pay 30 percent of your gross monthly income as rent. However, WCHA may set a minimum rent (often $50 to $100 per month) and a maximum rent you can pay, depending on the program and your circumstances. If your income drops, you can request a rent adjustment, and WCHA will recalculate based on your new income.

The waiting list and how to get on it

WCHA maintains separate waiting lists for public housing and Section 8 vouchers. The Section 8 waiting list is often closed because demand far exceeds available vouchers. When it opens, it typically fills within days. To find out whether the list is open, call WCHA directly — this is the only reliable way to know the current status.

If the list is open, you can submit an process in person at WCHA's office or sometimes online, depending on their current process. You will need to provide proof of identity, Social Security numbers for all household members, and proof of income. Once you are on the waiting list, WCHA will contact you when a voucher or public housing unit becomes available. Wait times vary widely — from a few months to several years, depending on the program and your household circumstances.

Documents you need to bring

When you explore to WCHA or when you are called from the waiting list, you will need to provide several documents. Bring a photo ID (driver's license or state ID), Social Security cards or numbers for all household members, recent pay stubs or proof of income (tax returns, benefit statements, or a letter from your employer), and proof of residency in Williamson County. If you are unemployed, bring documentation of job search efforts or a letter explaining your situation.

WCHA will also run a background check, which includes a criminal history search and a check of your rental history. If you have an eviction on your record, unpaid utility bills, or criminal convictions, WCHA may deny your process, though some circumstances are considered on a case-by-case basis. Ask WCHA about their specific policies if you have concerns about your background.

Contacting WCHA and finding their office

The Williamson County Housing Authority's main office is located in Franklin, Tennessee. You can reach them by phone to ask about waiting list status, current openings, income limits, and the process process. WCHA staff can tell you whether your address is in their service area and direct you to the right program for your situation.

You can also visit the office in person to pick up an process, ask questions, or submit documents. Office hours and phone numbers are available on WCHA's website or by calling directory information for Williamson County. If you are explore for Section 8, ask whether WCHA is currently accepting applications — this changes frequently, and calling ahead saves a trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between public housing and a Section 8 voucher?

Public housing is an apartment WCHA owns and manages. You pay rent to WCHA, and WCHA maintains the building. A Section 8 voucher lets you rent from any private landlord who accepts the program. You choose the apartment, the landlord is private, and WCHA pays part of the rent directly to the landlord. Both charge you roughly 30 percent of your income, but the landlord and building owner are different.

Can I use my Section 8 voucher if I move to a different county?

You can move within Williamson County and to some neighboring areas without special permission. If you want to move outside the approved region, you must request a portability transfer from WCHA. This process takes several weeks, and WCHA must approve the move. Contact WCHA before you sign a lease in a new area to confirm whether portability is available.

How long does it take to get off the waiting list?

Wait times vary widely depending on the program, your household size, and local demand. Some people wait a few months; others wait several years. WCHA can give you an estimate based on current activity, but the timeline is not may provide. Call WCHA to ask about typical wait times for the program you are interested in.

What happens if my income increases while I am in the program?

Your rent will increase because you pay a percentage of your income. WCHA will recalculate your rent at your next annual recertification or when you report the income change. If your income exceeds the program's limit, you may be required to leave the program, though WCHA usually gives you time to transition. Report income changes to WCHA as soon as they happen.

Can I be denied because of my criminal record?

WCHA conducts background checks and may deny your process based on criminal history, but policies vary. Some convictions result in automatic denial; others are reviewed case-by-case. Contact WCHA to ask about their specific policies if you have a criminal record. You can also ask whether you have the right to a hearing if you are denied.