PHFA’s Pennsylvania Homeowner Assistance Fund Increases Cap on Assistance

For homeowners in Pennsylvania who continue to be unable to pay their full mortgage or other housing expenses due to to COVID-19, the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency announced there is more help available.

According to PHFA, there has been an increase on the maximum amount of assistance for those eligible for the Pennsylvania Homeowner Assistance Fund. Thanks to money from the American Rescue Plan Act, the cap has risen from $30,000 to $50,000. Those who wish to apply must be 30 days or more overdue on their payments for their mortgage or other housing-related costs.

“For Realtors® who have clients struggling with housing-related costs due to COVID-19, PAHAF is a resource those clients can apply for,” said Kelly Wilson, HEMAP director with PHFA. “We encourage Realtors® to tell their eligible clients to submit an application, especially now that there is a new cap of $50,000.”

To be eligible, the homeowner must use the property as their main residence, the property must be located in Pennsylvania and the homeowner has experienced financial struggles since Jan. 21, 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, the applicant’s income must be equal to or less than the 150% area median income, the mortgage is a conforming loan and meets the federal limits for the year in which the loan was taken and the homeowner cannot receive other assistance for housing-related costs from another federal, state, local, nonprofit, or tribal source. Homeowners who wish to apply can check out a list of required documents needed.

Any applicant who had been denied previously may reapply. Those who have already received funding will not be able to reapply or collect additional funds.

Covered under the PAHAF fund are mortgage reinstatements, forward mortgage payments, property charges and delinquent utilities.

“We have seen the tremendous impact PAHAF has already had across the commonwealth for the many households that have struggled to cope with pandemic-related financial hardships,” said PHFA Executive Director and CEO Robin Wiessmann. “Implementing these changes ensures that homeowners receive even greater financial support and builds critical housing and economic stability in Pennsylvania.”