Housing Assistance for Single Mothers in Arkansas

Complete Housing Assistance Guide for Single Mothers in Arkansas

Last updated: August 2025

Information verified with current program data as of August 12, 2025

Main Points

Emergency rental assistance is available through Emergency Solutions Grant providers across all 75 Arkansas counties
Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) help pay up to 70% of rent, but waiting lists are 12-18 months long
USDA rural home loans offer 5.00% interest rates with no down payment for eligible areas
LIHEAP utility assistance provides up to $475 for winter bills and $287 for summer cooling
Income limits vary by county – most programs serve families earning 50-80% of area median income
Multiple programs can be combined for maximum assistance

If You Need Help Today

Facing eviction or homeless? Call 2-1-1 immediately for emergency assistance. Press 6 for homeless services.

Can’t pay utilities? Contact your local Community Action Agency for crisis utility assistance up to $500.

Need rent help now? Apply through Emergency Solutions Grant providers – they serve all Arkansas counties.

In danger? Arkansas Coalition Against Domestic Violence: (501) 907-5612 or National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233

Emergency Housing Assistance

Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) Program

The Emergency Solutions Grant program is currently Arkansas’s main source of emergency rental assistance since the Arkansas Rent Relief Program closed in April 2022. The program provides funding administered by the Arkansas Development Finance Authority to prevent homelessness, offer emergency shelter, and help families transition to permanent housing.

What it covers:

Up to 3 months of past-due rent (varies by provider)
Security deposits and first month’s rent for new housing
Utility deposits and payments
Moving costs and temporary storage
Case management services

Income requirements: Generally serves households at or below 30% of Area Median Income, with priority given to extremely low-income families and those experiencing homelessness.

How to apply: Contact your local Emergency Solutions Grant provider through ADFA. Each county has designated Community Action Agencies or nonprofits that handle applications.

Processing time: Applications are typically processed within 2-4 weeks, but funding availability varies by county and season.

Reality check: Funding is limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. ESG providers often have waiting lists during high-demand periods. Don’t wait if you’re facing eviction – apply immediately.

Community Action Agency Crisis Assistance

Arkansas has 15 Community Action Agencies serving all 75 counties. These agencies provide emergency assistance including rental help, utility payments, and basic needs support.

Example programs:

Crisis intervention for utility shut-offs
Emergency rental assistance (amounts vary by agency)
Security deposit assistance
Emergency food and clothing

Contact: Visit Arkansas Community Action Agencies Association to find your local agency.

2-1-1 Arkansas

Call 2-1-1 or visit arkansas211.org for immediate referrals to emergency assistance in your area.

Long-Term Housing Programs

Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)

The Housing Choice Voucher program is the federal government’s largest rental assistance program. In Arkansas, very low-income families typically pay 30% of their income toward rent, with the voucher covering the remainder up to Fair Market Rent limits.

Income Eligibility (2025)

Source: HUD Income Limits 2025

Family Size	Very Low Income (50% AMI)	Extremely Low Income (30% AMI)
1 person	$22,800	$13,680
2 people	$26,050	$15,630
3 people	$29,300	$17,580
4 people	$32,550	$19,530

Note: Income limits vary by county and metropolitan area. These figures represent statewide non-metropolitan averages. Check with your local Public Housing Authority for exact figures in your area.

Priority groups:

Families experiencing homelessness
Families with disabilities
Elderly households
Families paying more than 50% of income for rent

Application process:

Contact your local Public Housing Authority
Complete application when waiting list opens (check status at Affordable Housing Online)
Provide income verification, ID, Social Security cards, and rental history
Complete eligibility interview and background check
Wait for voucher availability (typically 12-24 months)
Attend voucher briefing and receive Housing Choice Voucher
Find qualifying rental unit within 60-120 days (time varies by housing authority)
Pass housing quality standards inspection before move-in

Reality check: According to HUD data, Arkansas housing authorities have waiting lists averaging 12-24 months, with some urban areas like Little Rock experiencing longer waits. Many housing authorities close their waiting lists when they have more applicants than they can serve in the near future. Check current waiting list status with your local housing authority before applying.

Fair Market Rents (2025)

Source: HUD Fair Market Rents FY2025

Area	1 BR	2 BR	3 BR	4 BR
Little Rock	$699	$849	$1,089	$1,289
Fayetteville	$657	$847	$1,142	$1,342
Fort Smith	$573	$729	$967	$1,167
Hot Springs	$561	$698	$967	$1,167

These are maximum amounts Section 8 will pay toward rent in each area.

Public Housing

Public housing developments are owned and operated by local housing authorities. Rent is typically 30% of adjusted income, and utilities may be included.

Pros:

Lower cost than Section 8 in some areas
Stable housing with on-site management
Some properties offer supportive services

Cons:

Limited locations
Long waiting lists
Less choice in neighborhoods

USDA Rural Housing Programs

Section 502 Direct Loans

The USDA Section 502 program helps low-income families buy homes in rural areas with no down payment required.

Current rates (effective July 1, 2025): 5.00% fixed interest rate, potentially reduced to as low as 1% with payment assistance subsidy.

Loan terms: Up to 33 years (38 years for very low-income applicants who cannot afford the 33-year term)

Payment assistance: Temporary subsidy available based on adjusted family income to reduce monthly payments. The subsidy amount decreases as income increases over time.

No down payment: Required for most applicants, though those with assets above program limits may need to contribute some funds.

Eligibility requirements:

Adjusted income at or below low-income limits for the area (check eligibility online)
Unable to obtain conventional financing on reasonable terms
Property must be in USDA-eligible rural area
U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen
Demonstrate willingness and ability to repay debt

How to apply: Contact your regional USDA Rural Development office. Processing times vary by funding availability and application completeness.

Northwest Arkansas (Boone, Newton, Searcy, Marion, Carroll, Benton, Washington, Madison, Izard, Baxter, Fulton, Stone counties): Phone: (870) 741-8600, Extension 4

Northeast Arkansas (Craighead, Mississippi, Poinsett, Independence, Cleburne, Jackson, Sharp, Lawrence, Clay, Greene, Randolph counties): Phone: (870) 972-4671, Extension 4

Section 504 Home Repair Loans and Grants

This program helps very low-income rural homeowners repair their homes.

Loans: Up to $40,000 at 1% interest for 20 years Grants: Up to $10,000 lifetime limit (must be 62+ years old) Combined assistance: Up to $50,000 total

Utility Assistance Programs

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

LIHEAP helps eligible households pay heating and cooling bills through the Arkansas Department of Energy & Environment.

Benefits Available (FY2025)

Source: Arkansas LIHEAP State Plan FY2025

Benefit Type	Winter Amount	Summer Amount	Crisis Amount
Regular	Up to $475	Up to $287	N/A
Crisis	Up to $500	Up to $500	Up to $500

Income Eligibility (60% State Median Income)

Source: Arkansas LIHEAP Income Guidelines FY2025

Household Size	Maximum Annual Income
1 person	$32,760
2 people	$42,900
3 people	$53,040
4 people	$63,180
5 people	$73,320

Application periods:

Winter assistance: January 1 – April 30, 2025
Summer assistance: July 1 – September 30, 2025

Processing time: Typically 2-3 weeks after complete application submission.

Required documents:

Photo ID for utility account holder
Social Security cards for all household members
Recent utility bills showing past due amounts or disconnect notices
Proof of income for previous month for all household members 18+

How to apply: Contact your local Community Action Agency. Applications are processed first-come, first-served basis. Do not apply directly to the Arkansas Energy Office.

Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP)

Program Status Update: LIHWAP was a temporary program funded through the American Rescue Plan Act. As of August 2025, this program has concluded. However, some Community Action Agencies may still offer emergency water assistance through other funding sources.

Alternative water assistance: Contact your local Community Action Agency for current emergency water bill assistance programs that may be available in your county.

Homeownership Programs

Arkansas Development Finance Authority (ADFA) Programs

ADFA offers several first-time homebuyer programs:

Down Payment Assistance: Up to $15,000 in down payment and closing cost assistance MRB Homeownership Program: Below-market interest rates for qualified buyers MCC Program: Mortgage Credit Certificates provide annual tax credits

FHA Loans

Federal Housing Administration loans require as little as 3.5% down payment and accept lower credit scores than conventional loans.

Benefits:

Down payment as low as 3.5%
Credit scores as low as 580 accepted
Seller can pay closing costs
Assumable loans

VA Loans (for Veterans)

Veterans and eligible spouses can access VA loans with:

No down payment required
No private mortgage insurance
Competitive interest rates
No prepayment penalties

Specialized Housing Resources

Transitional Housing Programs

Havenwood (Northwest Arkansas)

Havenwood provides transitional housing for single mothers and children for up to 2 years.

Services include:

Safe housing for up to 24 months
Case management and goal setting
Job training and education support
Childcare assistance
Financial literacy training

Counties served: Benton, Washington, and surrounding areas

Our House (Central Arkansas)

Our House operates emergency and transitional housing in Little Rock.

Programs:

Emergency shelter (dormitory-style)
Transitional family housing
Apartment-style housing for families
Supportive services and case management

Domestic Violence Housing

Arkansas Coalition Against Domestic Violence

24/7 Hotline: (501) 907-5612

Safe housing options for survivors of domestic violence, including:

Emergency shelter
Transitional housing programs
Rapid rehousing assistance
Safety planning and support services

Inclusive Housing Resources

LGBTQ+ Single Mothers

While Arkansas has limited LGBTQ+-specific housing programs, the following resources provide affirming support:

National resources:

National LGBTQ Task Force: Housing discrimination information
SAGE (Services & Advocacy for GLBT Elders): Senior housing resources

Local support:

Equality Arkansas: Advocacy and resource referrals
Contact 2-1-1 and specifically ask about LGBTQ+-affirming housing providers

Tribal-Specific Resources

Arkansas does not have federally recognized tribes, but Native American families may access:

HUD Indian Housing Programs: Available to enrolled tribal members nationwide Native American Housing Assistance: Contact HUD’s Office of Native American Programs at (800) 955-2232

Rural Single Mothers with Limited Access

Rural families face unique challenges including limited transportation and fewer service providers.

Specialized resources:

USDA Rural Development programs (described above)
Rural Arkansas Community Action Agencies provide outreach services
Mobile service delivery in some counties
Telehealth and virtual support services

Transportation assistance:

Contact local Community Action Agencies for transportation vouchers
Some agencies provide gas cards for essential appointments

Single Fathers

While this guide focuses on single mothers, single fathers face similar housing challenges and can access the same programs:

All housing assistance programs described above are available regardless of gender Additional resources:

National At-Home Dad Network: Support groups and resources
Single Father Network: Online community and local meetups

Resources by Region

Central Arkansas (Little Rock Metro)

Central Arkansas Development Council (CADC)

LIHEAP utility assistance
Emergency rental assistance
Weatherization programs
Phone: (501) 371-7258

Metropolitan Housing Alliance

Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers
Public housing
Homeownership programs
Address: 1200 S. Broadway, Little Rock, AR 72202

Northwest Arkansas (Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers)

Northwest Arkansas Community Action Corp

Emergency assistance programs
Utility help
Food assistance
Phone: (479) 751-0433

Economic Opportunity Agency

LIHEAP assistance
Emergency rental help
Weatherization
Phone: (479) 684-6125

Northeast Arkansas

Arkansas River Valley Area Council (ARVAC)

Emergency Solutions Grant
LIHEAP assistance
Housing counseling
Phone: (479) 219-5292
Counties: Conway, Franklin, Johnson, Logan, Perry, Polk, Pope, Scott, Yell

Southeast Arkansas

Southeast Arkansas Community Action Corp

Housing assistance programs
Utility help
Emergency assistance
Counties: Ashley, Bradley, Chicot, Cleveland, Dallas, Desha, Drew

Southwest Arkansas

Ouachita River Valley Association

Community development programs
Housing assistance
Emergency services
Counties: Calhoun, Columbia, Ouachita, Union

Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)

How long do I have to wait for Section 8?

According to current data from Arkansas housing authorities, waiting times vary dramatically by location:

Urban areas (Little Rock, Fayetteville): 18-36 months
Rural areas: 6-18 months
Statewide average: 12-24 months

Many housing authorities periodically close their waiting lists when they become too long. Check current waiting list status before applying. Priority is given to families experiencing homelessness, those with disabilities, and elderly households.

Can I get help if I’m working?

Yes! Most programs have income limits rather than requiring unemployment. According to 2025 HUD income limits, a single mother with two children can typically earn up to about $29,300 annually (50% Area Median Income) and still qualify for very low-income housing programs. Some programs serve families earning up to 80% AMI (approximately $46,880 for a family of three).

What if my landlord won’t accept Section 8?

Arkansas does not have source of income discrimination laws, so landlords can legally refuse Section 8 vouchers. However, many do accept them. Contact your housing authority for lists of participating landlords, or use HUD’s housing search tools. Some housing authorities offer landlord incentive programs to encourage participation.

Can I combine different assistance programs?

Yes, you can often combine programs. For example, you might use LIHEAP for utilities, receive SNAP benefits for food, and apply for emergency rental assistance – as long as you meet each program’s individual requirements.

What if I have bad credit or an eviction?

Many assistance programs don’t have strict credit requirements, especially emergency programs. For long-term housing like Section 8, housing authorities may consider negative history but often allow explanations and evidence of changed circumstances.

How do I prove my income if I’m paid in cash?

Keep detailed records of all work and income. Get written statements from employers, even for cash work. Your local housing counselor can help you document irregular income properly.

What if I’m undocumented?

Most federal housing programs require legal immigration status, but emergency assistance through Community Action Agencies may be available regardless of status. Some local programs also provide help. Contact 2-1-1 for guidance.

Can I get help moving from another state?

Section 8 vouchers are portable – you can transfer them between states through the “portability” process. Contact your current housing authority to begin the transfer process before moving.

What happens if I make too much money after getting assistance?

Most programs have annual income reviews. If your income increases above program limits, you’ll typically have a phase-out period or may need to transition to other housing options. This is actually a positive step toward self-sufficiency.

How do I appeal if I’m denied?

Every program has an appeals process. You’ll receive written notice of denial with information about how to request a hearing. Don’t miss the deadline – usually 10-14 days from the denial date.

Warning Signs and Reality Checks

Red Flags to Avoid

Housing scams are common: Never pay fees to apply for Section 8 or public housing. Government programs are free to apply for.

Fake landlords: Be wary of rental listings that require money upfront before viewing the property or seem too good to be true.

“Guaranteed” housing: No legitimate service can guarantee you’ll receive housing assistance or move to the front of waiting lists.

Common Challenges

Limited funding: All assistance programs have more applicants than available help. Apply early and to multiple programs.

Paperwork requirements: Gather documents in advance. Missing paperwork is the most common reason for delays.

Transportation barriers: Many offices require in-person visits. Ask about mobile services or assistance with transportation costs.

Childcare needs: Some appointments don’t allow children. Ask about childcare assistance or virtual options.

Tips for Success

Apply to multiple programs simultaneously: Don’t wait to be denied by one program before applying to others.

Keep copies of everything: Maintain organized files of all applications, documents, and correspondence.

Follow up regularly: Call agencies monthly to check on application status and provide any additional information needed.

Be honest about your situation: Provide accurate information. Programs are designed to help people in difficult circumstances.

Get help navigating the system: Contact a HUD-approved housing counselor for free assistance with applications and housing searches.

Additional Resources

Arkansas State Agencies

Arkansas Department of Human Services

TANF, SNAP, Medicaid applications
Phone: (501) 682-1001
Online: humanservices.arkansas.gov

Arkansas Department of Energy & Environment

LIHEAP program administration
Energy efficiency programs
Phone: (501) 682-0600

Federal Resources

HUD Customer Service

General housing information
Phone: (800) 569-4287
Website: hud.gov

USDA Rural Development

Rural housing and home repair programs
Phone: (800) 670-6553
Website: rd.usda.gov

Legal Aid

Legal Aid of Arkansas

Free legal help for housing issues
Eviction defense
Phone: (501) 376-3423
Website: arlegalaid.org

Center for Arkansas Legal Services

Housing law assistance
Tenant rights information
Phone: (800) 950-5817

Financial Counseling

Arkansas Financial Counseling Programs Find a certified financial counselor to help with budgeting, credit repair, and homebuyer education through the National Endowment for Financial Education.

About this guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

The ASingleMother.org team has been researching and writing comprehensive benefits guides for single mothers across all 50 states since 2020. Our editorial team regularly updates these guides by reviewing official government sources, contacting state agencies, and incorporating feedback from hundreds of single mothers who have used these programs.

This Arkansas guide represents over 5 years of experience helping single mothers navigate the benefits system. We verify information with official sources including Arkansas Department of Human Services, USDA, HHS, and local nonprofits to ensure accuracy.

Information compiled from official Arkansas Department of Human Services, Arkansas Development Finance Authority, USDA, and HHS sources. Last verified: August 2025.

The ASingleMother.org editorial team welcomes feedback on this guide. If you find outdated information or discover new resources, please contact us at info@asinglemother.org so we can help other single mothers with accurate, current information.

Disclaimer

Program details, income limits, and availability can change. This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal or financial advice. Always verify current program requirements, application deadlines, and income limits with the relevant agency before applying. Funding for assistance programs is limited and not guaranteed to be available when you apply.

For the most current information, contact programs directly or speak with a HUD-approved housing counselor at (800) 569-4287.

🏛️More Arkansas Resources for Single Mothers

Explore all assistance programs in 34 categories available in Arkansas

You may also need: Utility Assistance Emergency Assistance Community Support