The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has announced new federal disaster assistance for Texas in response to the severe storms and flooding that occurred from March 26 to 28, 2025. The announcement follows President Trump's major disaster declaration for the state.
“HUD serves every American and works alongside communities to help rebuild homes, neighborhoods, and businesses after severe storms,” said Secretary Scott Turner. “To support Texans during this time of need, HUD is providing financial flexibility and disaster recovery resources to affected communities.”
U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) expressed appreciation for the federal response. “The Rio Grande Valley endured devastating floods and storms that severely damaged Texans’ homes and businesses, and I thank President Trump for approving this request for federal disaster relief and Secretary Turner for making these funds available to the region,” he said. “I will continue to stay in touch with state and local officials to ensure South Texas has the resources and assistance it needs to recover and rebuild.”
Effective immediately, HUD has put several measures in place:
- A 90-day moratorium on foreclosures of Federal Housing Administration (FHA)-insured mortgages as well as mortgages under the Section 184 Indian Home Loan Guarantee program for Native American borrowers in disaster-designated areas.
- An automatic 90-day extension for Home Equity Conversion Mortgages.
- FHA’s Section 203(h) program offers mortgage insurance for disaster victims whose homes were destroyed or require reconstruction, allowing them access to full financing including closing costs.
- Through its Section 203(k) loan program, HUD allows individuals to finance both home purchase or refinance along with necessary repairs through a single mortgage.
- Information about available housing units from Public Housing Agencies and multi-family owners will be shared with FEMA and Texas authorities.
- Community Planning and Development grantees can apply for administrative flexibility related to programs such as Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), Housing Opportunities for Persons With AIDS (HOPWA), Continuum of Care (CoC), Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG), HOME Investment Partnerships, and Housing Trust Fund (HTF). More details are provided by local CPD Field Offices.
- Public Housing Agencies may seek waivers needed for relief efforts if located within areas covered by a presidential Major Disaster Declaration. Further guidance is available through the Federal Register Disaster Relief Notice.
- Tribes and Tribally Designated Housing Entities receiving Indian Housing Block Grants or Indian Community Development Block Grants can also apply for similar waivers post-disaster.
- HUD-approved housing counseling agencies are ready to help those impacted assess their needs; services include foreclosure prevention counseling at no cost. Assistance is accessible online or via telephone in over 200 languages at 1-800-569-4287.
- For those experiencing potential housing discrimination following disasters, HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity offers support. Complaints can be filed via phone at 1-800-669-9777 or online through HUD’s portal.
These steps aim to provide immediate relief while supporting longer-term recovery efforts across affected Texas communities.
