The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has announced federal disaster assistance for Arkansas to support recovery efforts following severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding that took place from April 2 to April 22, 2025.
“HUD serves every American and works alongside communities to help rebuild homes, neighborhoods, and businesses after severe storms,” said Secretary Scott Turner. “To support Arkansans during this time of need, HUD is providing financial flexibility and disaster recovery resources to affected communities.”
Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders expressed appreciation for the federal response. “As we recover from a spring of devastating severe weather, we are thankful to Secretary Scott Turner and President Donald J. Trump for their support and aid for our storm-impacted communities,” she said. “The process of cleaning up and rebuilding is never easy, but with this Federal disaster assistance, we will be able to supplement and relieve the burden on our impacted counties, cities, and towns more efficiently.”
Senators John Boozman and Tom Cotton as well as Representatives Rick Crawford, French Hill, Steve Womack, and Bruce Westerman also welcomed the support: “Arkansans are resilient and dedicated to supporting our friends and neighbors affected by natural disasters, but federal assistance will also be key to recover and rebuild. We applaud Sec. Turner and HUD’s efforts to deliver this important relief and flexibility.”
Following President Trump’s major disaster declaration for Arkansas, HUD introduced several measures effective immediately:
A 90-day moratorium on foreclosures for mortgages insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA) is in effect for borrowers in areas designated under a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration. The same moratorium applies to Native American borrowers with mortgages guaranteed under the Section 184 Indian Home Loan Guarantee program. There is also an automatic 90-day extension for Home Equity Conversion Mortgages.
HUD is making mortgage insurance available through its Section 203(h) program for disaster victims whose homes require reconstruction or replacement. This allows eligible borrowers from participating FHA-approved lenders access to full financing including closing costs.
The Section 203(k) loan program enables individuals to finance both the purchase or refinance of a house along with necessary repairs through a single mortgage. Homeowners can use this option if their existing home has been damaged.
Information about available housing units from Public Housing Agencies or multi-family owners will be shared with FEMA and state officials. HUD will also connect these agencies with subject matter experts regarding relevant programs.
Recipients of Community Planning and Development grants—including Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), Housing Opportunities for Persons With AIDS (HOPWA), Continuum of Care (CoC), Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG), HOME Investment Partnerships Program, and Housing Trust Fund—may apply for administrative flexibility due to the disaster declaration. More information on waivers or suspension of requirements can be obtained by contacting local Community Planning and Development Field Offices.
Public Housing Agencies may request waivers needed for disaster relief if located in an area covered by a presidentially declared Major Disaster Declaration. Details on waiver applications are provided in the latest Federal Register Disaster Relief Notice guidance.
Tribes or Tribally Designated Housing Entities receiving Indian Housing Block Grants or Indian Community Development Block Grants may also apply for necessary waivers following a disaster declaration.
HUD-approved housing counseling agencies are prepared to assist those affected by natural disasters in identifying needs and available resources. These services are accessible regardless of whether homeowners have an FHA-insured mortgage.
Finally, HUD’s Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity offers assistance to anyone who believes they have experienced housing discrimination during post-disaster recovery efforts. Complaints can be filed via phone or online through HUD’s website.
