Tribal Housing Assistance Program Expands to Urban Areas

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has announced a major expansion of the Native American Housing Assistance and Self-Determination Act (NAHASDA) programs, extending eligibility to urban Native Americans.

What's Changed

Previously, NAHASDA primarily served Native Americans living on or near reservations. The expansion now includes:

• Urban Indian Housing: Dedicated funding for housing programs in major metropolitan areas
• Increased Funding: Additional $200 million for urban Native housing initiatives
• Expanded Services: Down payment assistance, rental assistance, and homeownership counseling

Eligible Cities (Initial Phase)

The program initially targets 25 cities with significant Native American populations:

• Phoenix, AZ
• Los Angeles, CA
• Minneapolis, MN
• Oklahoma City, OK
• Seattle, WA
• And 20 more cities

Available Programs

First-Time Homebuyer Assistance

• Down payment assistance up to $25,000
• Closing cost grants
• Homebuyer education and counseling

Rental Assistance

• Security deposit assistance
• Monthly rent subsidies for income-eligible families
• Emergency rental assistance

Home Repair Programs

• Weatherization assistance
• Emergency repair grants
• Accessibility modifications for elders and disabled individuals

How to Apply

1. Contact your local Urban Indian organization
2. Verify tribal enrollment or descendancy
3. Complete income verification
4. Attend required homebuyer education (for purchase programs)
5. Submit application through tribal housing authority

Eligibility Requirements

• Tribal enrollment or documented Native ancestry
• Residency in participating city
• Income limits apply (typically 80% or below area median income)
• U.S. citizenship or eligible immigration status

For more information, visit your local tribal housing authority or Urban Indian organization.