Muskingum County Homeowners Can Access Assistance Amid Covid-19
In an effort to alleviate the housing burdens faced by residents of Muskingum County, the Ohio Housing Finance Agency (OHFA) and MEOAG Inc., the Community Action Agency of Muskingum County, have joined forces to provide vital assistance through the Save the Dream Ohio Homeowner Assistance Fund-Utility Assistance Plus (HAF-UAP) program. This program, generously funded by the American Rescue Plan of 2021, offers a lifeline to eligible Muskingum County homeowners grappling with various housing-related expenses.
The assistance available through the HAF-UAP program is multifaceted and designed to address pressing needs. Homeowners can seek support for a range of expenses, including utilities, utility disconnect fees, utility reconnection fees, Real Estate Property Taxes not escrowed, and other homeowner fees. Importantly, households in need may qualify to receive up to $10,000 in assistance, or until the funds are depleted, with the program concluding on December 31, 2023. Specifically, the utility assistance and homeowner fees component of the program will cease after December 31, 2023.
To be eligible for this vital assistance, homeowners must meet certain criteria. They must have experienced a financial hardship after January 21, 2020, as a direct result of the Covid-19 pandemic. Additionally, their income must fall at or below 150% of the area median income, as determined by the United States Treasury.
It’s important to note that homeowners who require assistance with mortgage payments and have their Real Estate Taxes and Insurance escrowed should apply for aid directly through OHFA’s Save the Dream Ohio Program. In this collaborative effort, MEOAG, Inc. will continue to offer support for utilities and other homeownership-related fees in conjunction with OHFA’s Save the Dream Ohio Program.
The application process for this critical assistance is by appointment only, and applicants must come prepared with the necessary documentation. Here’s a checklist of the documents required at the time of the appointment:
- Proof of Identity: A valid form of identification is essential.
- Social Security Numbers: Provide the Social Security numbers for all members of your household.
- Income Documentation: Furnish 30-day proof of income for all household members aged 18 and over, or the most recent completed tax return.
- Documentation for Assistance Needed: Be ready to present the necessary documentation detailing the assistance you require.
For those seeking more information about this program or wishing to schedule an appointment, please reach out to Brooke Morris at (740) 453-5703 ext. 114 at the Community Action Agency of Muskingum County. This collaborative effort between OHFA and MEOAG Inc. aims to provide essential support to homeowners facing financial challenges, ensuring that they can continue to maintain their homes and enjoy a stable living environment.
