Homeowners in Florida Get Constant Assistance from the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity
The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, through the Florida Homeowner Assistance (HAF) program, has helped over 3000 families so far and distributed over $80 million, including $23 million this week only. With these numbers, Florida leads in mortgage assistance surpassing states like California and Texas.
“Under Governor DeSantis’ strong leadership, Florida has quickly outpaced other states in its distribution of assistance through the HAF program,” said DEO Secretary Dane Eagle. “Even though the federal government delayed approval of Florida’s program by as much as two months compared to states like California, Texas, and New York, our team has been working tirelessly to be a model for the nation. While we know there is more work to be done, DEO is proud of its efforts to expedite critical assistance to Florida homeowners in need.”
With 7 in-person Customer Service centers, the DEO invites people living in Tier 1 to apply for assistance. Homeowners in Tier 2 are next if funding is still available and funds are not exhausted. Applicants must register first, and if approved- apply. After the application has been reviewed, they will get an update on their status. Funds are not given directly to homeowners, but to their mortgage servicers, tax, or insurance agencies.
The Florida Homeowner Assistance program provides up to $50,000.00 to income-eligible homeowners living in Florida if they are facing financial hardship as a result of the Covid-19 pandemics. These funds can be used to cover delinquent mortgage payments, property taxes, insurance payments, utilities, and homeowner or condominium association fees. By doing this, the State helps prevent mortgage delinquencies, foreclosures, defaults, and displacements. HAF is a federally funded program established under Section 3206 of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021. The applicants must meet income qualifications of less than or equal to 150% of the Area Median Income (AMI) or 100% of the median income of the United States, whichever is greater.
Applications are available at the program’s official site. For more information, call the Homeowner Assistance Fund Customer Assistance Center (833-987-8997).
