The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has announced new federal disaster assistance for Nebraska, following severe winter storms and straight-line winds that impacted the state on March 18-19, 2025.
HUD Secretary Scott Turner stated, “HUD serves every American and works alongside communities to help rebuild homes, neighborhoods, and businesses after severe storms. To support Nebraskans during this time of need, HUD is providing financial flexibility and disaster recovery resources to affected communities.”
U.S. Senator Deb Fischer (R-NE) commented on the situation: “In March, Nebraskans experienced one of the most destructive winter storms in recent history. I look forward to continuing to work with the administration to ensure that Nebraskans receive the assistance they need to recover from this natural disaster.”
Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) added: “I thank Secretary Turner, Secretary Noem, and the administration for supporting Nebraska with this disaster aid. This funding will be spent productively to repair the millions in damages that occurred during the March storms.”
A major disaster declaration was issued by President Trump for Nebraska on May 23, 2025.
Effective immediately, HUD is implementing several measures:
A 90-day moratorium on foreclosures has been put in place for mortgages insured by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), as well as for Native American borrowers under the Section 184 Indian Home Loan Guarantee program. This includes a similar extension for Home Equity Conversion Mortgages. HUD’s Office of Native American Programs will notify lenders about these changes. Homeowners are encouraged to contact their mortgage servicer or consult FHA resources if they require assistance.
For those whose homes were destroyed or severely damaged, HUD’s Section 203(h) program offers FHA insurance allowing eligible homeowners and tenants access to full financing—including closing costs—through participating lenders.
Individuals can also use HUD’s Section 203(k) loan program to finance both home purchases or refinancing along with necessary repairs through a single mortgage.
Information regarding available housing units from Public Housing Agencies and multi-family owners will be shared with FEMA and state authorities. Subject matter experts will assist FEMA and state officials in navigating HUD programs relevant to recovery efforts.
Community Planning and Development grantees—including recipients of CDBG, HOPWA, CoC, ESG, HOME Investment Partnerships Program funds—can apply for administrative waivers due to Nebraska’s Major Disaster Declaration (DR 4868-NE). Guidance on waiver applications is available through local Community Planning and Development field offices.
Public Housing Agencies located within declared disaster areas may apply for specific waivers related to relief efforts; detailed instructions are provided in recent Federal Register Disaster Relief Notice guidance online.
Tribal governments receiving Indian Housing Block Grants or Indian Community Development Block Grants are also eligible for waivers designed to provide flexibility during recovery; application procedures can be found via updated federal guidance notices online.
HUD-approved housing counseling agencies are prepared to help residents affected by natural disasters determine their needs and identify available resources; services are accessible regardless of mortgage type at no cost for foreclosure prevention counseling.
Lastly, HUD's Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity remains available should individuals believe they have experienced housing discrimination during recovery efforts; complaints can be filed directly with HUD by phone or online via its website.
