Oregonians are experiencing inflation at a rate over eight percent, gas at nearly $4 a gallon, and a dozen eggs costing more than gas, all while federal subsidies have ended.

Oregon Housing and Community Services will reopen the federal Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) Program on March 8, 2023. The program offers federal temporary COVID-19 emergency mortgage relief intended to support homeowners who have experienced severe financial hardships due to the pandemic. It provides funding for past-due mortgages and other housing expenses, as well as ongoing payment assistance, to a limited number of homeowners with low to moderate incomes.

HAF was paused on November 30, 2022 to allow the Oregon Housing and Community Services to process current applications and project the amount of federal HAF funds remaining. They will reopen with a focus on homeowners in active foreclosure and those traditionally underserved by mortgage markets. The agency estimates an additional 528 eligible homeowners can be accepted to distribute $29.5 million available. This program will run through 2026, or until funds are expended.

A D V E R T I S E M E N T

A D V E R T I S E M E N T

As part of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, Oregon received $90 million to help eligible homeowners avoid mortgage foreclosures and displacement, and to cure delinquencies and defaults. The HAF program can help homeowners through a Past-Due Payment Relief program and an Ongoing Payment Relief program. Please note that funds are limited and cannot serve all in need.

Homeowners can learn more about eligibility requirements and, if eligible, apply online starting March 8, 2023, at Oregon Homeowner Assistance Fund. There is also county housing counseling available, but caution is advised against unauthorized companies or people offering help.


--Dollie Banner

Post Date: 2023-03-07 12:01:59

Last Update: 2023-03-07 19:43:32