Policy Takes Effect For Fiscal Year 2027, But Applicants Must Still Meet Eligibility Requirements
(UCBJ) – Military veterans and surviving spouses of deceased veterans will receive top priority when applying for certain rural housing loans in Tennessee following the approval of a federal housing waiver for fiscal year 2027. According to USDA Rural Development Tennessee, the waiver grants priority one application status to veterans and surviving spouses seeking assistance through the Section 502 Single Family Housing Loan Program.
Tennessee State Director Patrick Jaynes announced the approval Nov. 10 in recognition of Veterans Day.
“Few acts of service are greater than the decision to serve one’s country,” said Jaynes. “Our veterans have answered that call, sacrificing their time, opportunities, and, in many cases, their personal well-being to defend the freedoms we cherish as Americans. This Veterans Day, we are proud to demonstrate our gratitude through meaningful action that places our veterans and surviving spouses at the forefront of our housing assistance efforts.”
The designation gives eligible veterans and surviving spouses the highest level of application priority under the program in Tennessee throughout fiscal year 2027.
The initiative complements existing USDA Rural Development Tennessee housing programs designed to assist veterans, including:
- Homes for Hometown Vets Small House Pilot Program, established in 2025
- Project 250 Home Repair Program
The programs are part of an ongoing effort to improve housing accessibility, affordability and quality of life for veterans in rural Tennessee.
“Under the leadership of President Donald J. Trump and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, USDA Rural Development is committed to putting America First,” Jaynes said. “That commitment includes ensuring that the brave men and women who served our nation are recognized not only through words of appreciation but through programs and policies that make a meaningful difference in their lives. Prioritizing our veterans and surviving spouses for rural housing assistance is one small way we can express the gratitude of a grateful nation”.
The Section 502 Single Family Housing Loan Program helps eligible applicants obtain safe, decent and sanitary housing in qualifying rural areas.
The program supports homeownership for individuals who may otherwise face challenges securing affordable housing financing. The priority designation does not guarantee loan approval. Applicants must still meet all applicable program eligibility requirements.
According to USDA Rural Development Tennessee, the initiative reflects the agency’s commitment to supporting veterans and their families while expanding homeownership opportunities in rural communities.
For more information about USDA Rural Development programs in Tennessee, visit www.rd.usda.gov/tn.
Photo via Veterans Memorial Fund.
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