HAF: Homeowner Assistance Fund
The Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) is a $9.961 billion federal program established by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 to provide financial assistance to homeowners who have experienced financial
Program Overview
The Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) is a $9.961 billion federal program established by the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 to provide financial assistance to homeowners who have experienced financial hardship. HAF funds are distributed to states, territories, and tribes, which operate their own HAF programs. HAF can pay for: mortgage reinstatement (curing delinquencies), forward mortgage payments (up to 6 months), property taxes, homeowners insurance, HOA/condo fees, and utility payments. Unlike a loan modification, HAF assistance is generally structured as a grant that does not need to be repaid — though some states structure it as a forgivable loan. This is the single largest direct homeowner assistance program in U.S. history.
Administering Agency
U.S. Department of the Treasury (administered by states)
Eligibility
- •Experienced a qualified financial hardship after January 21, 2020 (or had a hardship before that date that was exacerbated by the pandemic)
- •Income at or below 100% of Area Median Income (AMI) or 150% AMI for socially disadvantaged individuals (varies by state)
- •Own and occupy the property as a primary residence
- •Have a mortgage or other qualified housing expenses (or be at risk of foreclosure for these expenses)
- •Hardship can include: job loss, reduction in income, increased household expenses, medical costs, or other financial hardship
Benefits
- •Mortgage reinstatement: HAF pays the full delinquency to bring your loan current — this can be $20,000, $30,000, or more
- •Forward mortgage payments: HAF can pay up to 6 months of future mortgage payments so you don't fall behind again
- •Property tax assistance: unpaid property taxes can be dangerous — taxing authorities can foreclose even if the mortgage is current
- •Insurance and HOA assistance: pays past-due homeowners insurance premiums and HOA/condo fees
- •Utility payment assistance: helps with past-due electric, gas, water, internet bills
- •Most HAF assistance is a grant (not a loan) — it does not need to be repaid if you meet program requirements
How to Apply
Find your state's HAF program: each state operates its own program through its state housing finance agency. Search '[your state] HAF program' or visit ncsha.org/haf.
Check eligibility requirements: each state sets its own specific eligibility criteria, income limits, and maximum assistance amounts. Review your state's program guidelines carefully.
Gather required documentation: proof of identity, mortgage statement showing delinquency, proof of income (tax returns, pay stubs, or a self-certification), proof of hardship (can often be a self-attestation), and bank statements.
Submit your application through your state's online portal, by mail, or in person. Most state programs have online application portals.
Work with a HUD-certified housing counselor: counselors can help you complete the application and follow up with the program administrator. Call 1-800-569-4287.
Monitor your application status: HAF programs have faced high demand. Check your application status regularly and respond promptly to any requests for additional information.
Key Deadlines
- ⏰HAF funds must be obligated by September 30, 2025 — but some states have exhausted funds earlier
- ⏰Some states have already closed their HAF programs due to fund exhaustion — check your state's status
- ⏰Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis in most states — apply as soon as possible
- ⏰If your state's HAF program is closed, ask about waiting lists or alternative state-funded programs
Frequently Asked Questions
Is HAF a loan or a grant? I'm worried about adding more debt.▼
Can HAF help if my foreclosure sale is already scheduled?▼
What if my state's HAF program has run out of money?▼
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