Doña Ana County Emergency Rental Assistance Program Guide

Last updated: June 26, 2026

Doña Ana County ERAP: Program Overview and Funding Highlights

The Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) in Doña Ana County served as a critical safety net for residents impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic from its launch in 2021 through its close on December 31, 2024. Funded through federal emergency relief legislation, the program helped thousands of New Mexico families avoid eviction and keep their utilities connected during one of the most economically turbulent periods in recent history. To understand what ERAP covers and how it works at the federal level, the program drew from funding under the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2021 and the American Rescue Plan Act.

The Doña Ana County rental assistance effort represented a significant local investment in housing stability. With $28 million of its $34 million total allocation distributed, the program wound down with remaining funds earmarked for future housing initiatives through community partnerships.

Who Qualified for Doña Ana County Rental Assistance

To qualify for ERAP in Doña Ana County, applicants were required to meet all of the following criteria:

• Proof of COVID-19 financial impact: Applicants had to demonstrate income loss, job loss, or increased expenses directly tied to the pandemic.
• Risk of homelessness or housing instability: Evidence of overdue rent, past-due utility bills, or a received eviction notice.
• Income limits: Household income had to fall below the program’s thresholds, which were set at 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) in line with federal ERA guidelines.
• New Mexico residency: Applicants must have been renting a residential property within New Mexico, specifically within Doña Ana County’s service area.

Pro Tip

Even though the Doña Ana County ERAP has closed, if you are behind on rent or facing eviction, you may still have options. Other New Mexico counties continue to administer housing assistance programs. Review alternatives to eviction and contact local nonprofits before assuming no help is available.

What Expenses Did the Doña Ana County ERAP Cover

The program provided financial assistance across a wider range of housing costs than many renters expected. Covered expenses included:

• Rent payments: Both past-due and current rent obligations were eligible for coverage.
• Utility bills: Electricity, gas, water, and sewer services were all covered under the program.
• Trash removal services: Residential trash disposal costs were an eligible expense — a broader scope than many other county ERAP programs.
• Additional housing expenses: Temporary lodging and other COVID-19-related housing costs could also be covered in qualifying circumstances.

For a broader picture of how COVID-19 rent relief programs worked nationally, including what costs were typically covered and what documentation was required, the COVID-19 rent relief guide covers the full scope of available protections and assistance types.

What Documents Were Required to Apply for Doña Ana ERAP

Applicants submitting through the county portal were required to provide the following supporting documentation:

• Proof of rental residence, such as a current signed lease agreement.
• Evidence of COVID-19 financial impact — such as a termination letter, reduced hours notice, or documentation of increased medical expenses.
• Overdue rent statements, past-due utility bills, or a formal eviction notice.
• Income verification such as recent tax returns, pay stubs, or benefit award letters for all household adults.

Applications were accepted online through the Doña Ana County portal and by phone at (575) 525-5898. Phone support was available for residents needing help navigating the process.

What Comes Next: Housing Assistance After Doña Ana ERAP

With the ERAP program now closed, Doña Ana County has committed to reallocating remaining program funds toward other housing stability initiatives. These efforts are expected to involve partnerships with local community organizations to continue supporting low-income renters in the Las Cruces area and surrounding communities.

New Mexico renters in other parts of the state still have access to county-level programs. For example, renters in Albuquerque and the surrounding metro area can explore rental assistance in Bernalillo County, where programs were still active into 2025. Households at imminent risk of losing their housing should also review their options for alternatives to eviction, including emergency mediation, payment plans, and legal aid referrals.