Homeowner Assistance Fund: How to Apply in Your State

The Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) is a $9.961 billion federal program established under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 to provide direct financial assistance to homeowners at risk of foreclosure. Each state received an allocation and designed its own program, but all state HAF programs share the same core purpose: to prevent foreclosure and help homeowners who fell behind due to pandemic-related financial hardship. As of late 2025, many state programs still have funds available.

What HAF covers: up to 12 months of mortgage payments (including missed payments and up to 3 months of future payments), up to 12 months of property taxes, homeowners insurance, and HOA/condo fees, up to 12 months of utility payments (including electricity, gas, water, internet), and in some states, assistance with past-due lot rent for manufactured homes. Maximum assistance varies by state but can reach $50,000-80,000 per household. This is a grant, not a loan — it does not need to be repaid.

Eligibility requirements: you must have experienced a financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic (job loss, reduced income, increased expenses due to health care or childcare, etc.), you must own and occupy the property as your primary residence, your household income must not exceed 100% of the area median income (AMI) or 150% of the national median (whichever is greater), and the mortgage must be on a single-family home (1-4 units), condo, or manufactured home. States may have additional requirements.

How to apply: each state runs its own program. Find your state's HAF program portal through the Treasury Department or NCSHA (National Council of State Housing Agencies) website. Applications are submitted online and require documentation: proof of income (tax returns, pay stubs, or a self-certification), proof of occupancy (driver's license, utility bill), mortgage statement showing delinquency or forbearance status, and evidence of COVID-19 hardship (this can be a self-certification in most states).

Critical tips for a successful application: apply as soon as possible — funds are limited and programs close when funds run out. Respond to requests for additional information immediately — delays in providing requested documents are the most common reason applications are denied or abandoned. Keep a copy of your complete application and all submitted documents. If denied, appeal — you have appeal rights in every state program. If approved but the servicer refuses to accept HAF payments, escalate — the CFPB has taken enforcement action against servicers that improperly reject HAF funds.

HAF can be combined with other loss mitigation options: a loan modification after HAF brings the loan current, a partial claim that defers past-due amounts to a junior lien, or a reinstatement using HAF to bring the loan fully current. Our team can help you navigate your state's HAF application, interface with your mortgage servicer, and ensure you receive the assistance you're eligible for.