Memphis Housing Authority warns of waitlist scam

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Memphis Housing Authority is warning citizens that thieves are working to steal personal information from those in need of affordable housing.

A fake flyer has been floating around social media, promising to expedite applications and reduce wait times.

Cheiktha Dowers, who oversees the waitlist for MHA’s voucher programs, says it’s too good to be true. “There is a significant need for affordable housing in Memphis. We get calls from families daily about the waitlist opening and we are working as hard as we can.”

The last time the waitlist was opened was in 2022. Back then 10,000 applications were taken in from more than 26,000 applicants.

“When we open our waitlist, we publish on our site, in newspapers, and broadcast. At this time, is closed,” said Dowers.

MHA’s website has it written in bold red letters and highlighted, “All public housing waiting lists are closed at this time.”

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has now stepped in, warning applicants to “verify the legitimacy of any communication, or request for payment regarding housing services, and to contact local authorities or HUD with any concerns.”

“These are attempts to steal people’s information so I ask people to be cautious so they won’t be a victim of a scam,” Dowers said.

The waitlist is set to reopen officially in 2025.

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