Homeowners in New York State who have experienced decreased income or increased expenses due to the COVID-19 pandemic can apply to The New York State Homeowner Assistance Fund (NYS HAF) for up to $50,000 in assistance.  Eligible applicants must currently own and occupy the property as their primary residence. To be eligible under the NYS HAF program, homeowners must attest to the fact that they had a financial impact caused as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. This means either a meaningful reduction in income or a meaningful increase in expenses as a direct result of COVID.  

NYS HAF is taking applications online at www.nyhomeownerfund.org/apply-now. You can also contact NYS HAF by phone at 844-77-NYHAF (844-776-9423).

You should apply for this program if you are a homeowner who is at risk of default, foreclosure, or displacement as a result of a financial hardship caused by the COVID-19 pandemic This includes homeowners who are:

•    Behind or in forbearance on their mortgage (even if it was recently modified)
•    In default on a reverse mortgage
•    Behind on property taxes, water, or sewage bills
•    Behind on monthly maintenance charges for a condo or coop apartment

This is a federally funded program with limited resources.  NYS HAF expects to receive significantly more applications than can be funded by the program.  You are advised to apply as soon as possible.