As Arizona continues to face housing affordability challenges, many residents are struggling to stay afloat amid rising rent prices, medical bills, and economic uncertainty. Fortunately, the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES)administers a vital support system through the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP)—a statewide initiative that provides help with rent, utility bills, and housing-related costs.

Whether you’re a renter behind on payments or a landlord assisting tenants, this 2025 guide will walk you through how to qualify, apply, and receive support through Arizona’s ERAP, ensuring housing stability when it’s needed most.

What Is the DES Emergency Rental Assistance Program?

Overview and Background

The Arizona DES Emergency Rental Assistance Program is part of the federally funded ERAP initiative created under the Consolidated Appropriations Act and the American Rescue Plan Act. Since 2021, the program has helped thousands of Arizona households avoid eviction and recover from the economic effects of the COVID-19 crisis.

Managed by the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES), the program partners with community action agencies, nonprofits, and tribal entities to deliver localized, needs-based support.

Key goals of DES ERAP:

• Prevent eviction and homelessness

• Support tenants and landlords equally

• Stabilize housing for families in financial crisis

What Makes Arizona’s Program Unique

Arizona’s ERAP stands out because of its centralized yet collaborative model, offering:

• A statewide online application portal for streamlined access

• Strong partnerships with nonprofits like Wildfire AZ, Chicanos Por La Causa, and Native-serving organizations

• Language access services (Spanish, Navajo, and more) and accommodations for applicants with disabilities

This ensures the program is equitable, accessible, and scalable across diverse Arizona communities.

Who Qualifies for Rental Assistance Through DES?

Before starting your application, it’s essential to understand who’s eligible for assistance under Arizona’s DES ERAP.

Eligibility Criteria

You may qualify for DES rental assistance if you meet all of the following:

• Household income is at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) in your county
  (Priority is given to households under 50% AMI or facing imminent eviction)

• You experienced financial hardship during or after the pandemic (e.g., job loss, reduced income, medical expenses)

• You are at risk of housing instability, as evidenced by past-due rent notices, eviction warnings, or unsafe housing conditions

Eligibility is open to both tenants and landlords who meet these conditions.

Types of Assistance Offered

The DES ERAP provides comprehensive financial support, including:

• Rental assistance for up to 15 months, including back and prospective rent

• Utility and energy bill assistance (electricity, water, sewer, gas)

• Internet bill support when needed for remote work or school

• Late fees, court costs, and relocation expenses, considered on a case-by-case basis

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Through DES

To avoid delays and increase approval chances, follow these steps carefully when applying for DES rental assistance.

Step 1 – Access the DES ERAP Application Portal

Start your application through the official DES portal:
Arizona DES ERAP Portal

In addition, community partner organizations can assist you with in-person or phone-based applications:

• Wildfire Arizona

• Chicanos Por La Causa

• Inter Tribal Council of Arizona for tribal member households

Step 2 – Gather Your Documents

Before applying, gather all necessary documentation. This ensures a smoother and faster review process.

Required documents include:

• Government-issued photo ID (for all adult household members)

• Signed lease or rental agreement

• Proof of income (W-2s, pay stubs, tax returns, unemployment benefit letters)

• Eviction notices, utility bills, or rent demand letters

• Landlord contact information (for payment coordination)

If you lack a formal lease, submit a notarized statement from your landlord confirming tenancy and rent terms.

Step 3 – Complete and Submit the Application

Applications may be submitted:

• Online via the DES portal (preferred for speed)

• In person through community partners

• Via mail or drop-off at designated assistance centers

After submission, you’ll receive a confirmation number and can expect follow-up communications within 2–4 weeks, depending on volume.

Step 4 – Monitor Status and Respond to Follow-Ups

To keep your application on track:

• Log in to the DES portal regularly to check status updates

• Respond promptly to requests for missing documents

• Contact the ERAP helpline if you experience delays or need assistance navigating the process

Key Data and Insights on Arizona’s ERAP Impact

Arizona’s ERAP has had significant reach and measurable impact statewide. Here’s a quick snapshot:

Sources: Arizona DES Program Dashboard, U.S. Treasury ERAP Database, Arizona Housing Coalition

Expert Insights and Local Perspectives

“DES has streamlined the process significantly in 2025, but applicants still need to be thorough.”
— Maria T., Housing Program Manager, Arizona Housing Coalition

“Many people don’t realize utilities can be included—apply even if rent is caught up.”
— Jorge M., Caseworker, Wildfire AZ

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I still apply for DES rental assistance in 2025?

Yes, Arizona’s DES ERAP is still open in 2025, while funding remains available. Apply as early as possible.

What if I’ve already received rental assistance before?

You may still qualify if you haven’t exceeded 15 months of total assistance and have new unpaid months.

Can landlords apply directly?

Yes, landlords can initiate applications on behalf of tenants, but tenant consent and documentation are still required.

How long does it take to receive funds?

Once approved, funds are usually disbursed within 3 to 5 weeks, often sent directly to landlords or utility providers.

Do undocumented residents qualify?

Yes. Immigration status does not disqualify applicants, but alternative documents (such as Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers) may be requested.

Real-Life Case Studies from Arizona

Phoenix Family Saves Home After Job Loss

After the primary earner was laid off, a Phoenix family fell behind on rent. With help from Wildfire AZ, they received nine months of back rent, utility coverage, and avoided eviction.

Tribal Community Resident Accesses Utilities Support

A member of a tribal community in northern Arizona received DES utility support through a collaborative program between DES and tribal housing services, ensuring water and power were never shut off.

Where to Get Help Applying for DES ERAP

Need one-on-one assistance? These organizations are ready to help:

• DES ERAP Helpline: (1-833) 912-0878

• Wildfire AZ – Community action agency

• Chicanos Por La Causa – Nonprofit application support

• Arizona Legal Aid – Free eviction prevention services

• Arizona 2-1-1 Helpline – Call 2-1-1 for emergency housing referrals

Next Steps to Secure Assistance

To ensure a smooth application experience in 2025, follow these steps:

1. Review the income and hardship criteria before starting your application.

2. Collect your documents early—missing files are the #1 cause of delays.

3. Apply through the DES portal or a local nonprofit—choose the channel that best supports you.

4. Stay engaged—check your application status and respond to follow-ups.

5. Educate others in your community—share this guide with neighbors, landlords, and service providers

Angela Silva

Angela Silva, a dedicated 42-year-old consultant specializing in government housing and rental assistance, hails from Sydney, Australia. She completed her education with a degree in Urban Planning from the University of New South Wales. Angela’s career has been marked by her relentless advocacy for affordable housing solutions, where she has worked extensively with both local governments and international agencies in Asia-Pacific regions. Her initiatives have led to the development of sustainable housing projects that cater to low-income families. Outside of her professional environment, Angela enjoys a peaceful life with her partner and their two adopted dogs, engaging in community gardening and urban sustainability projects.