Vermont homeowners who need help covering their housing costs can apply for up to $30,000 in relief from the state government.
According to a Monday news release from Gov. Phil Scott’s office, the state is now accepting applications for its Homeowner Assistance Program, a $50 million fund meant to provide assistance to Vermonters facing economic hardships due to the pandemic.
Applicants can receive grants up to $30,000 to help cover overdue mortgage payments, utility bills, property taxes and property association fees.
The program is managed by the Vermont Housing Finance Agency and funded through the federal American Rescue Plan Act. It is expected to continue for several years to alleviate long-term, pandemic-related economic turmoil, Scott’s office said.
The program is available to all Vermont homeowners who meet eligibility criteria — not just those with Vermont Housing Finance Agency mortgages. Applicants must meet income eligibility requirements and demonstrate that they are behind on bills for their primary residences as a result of financial difficulties related to the pandemic.
Eric Hoffman of the housing finance agency encouraged people to consult with a Housing and Urban Development-approved local counselor before applying to “make sure they are taking advantage of all the loss-mitigation tools that may be available to them.”
Vermonters can learn more and find application materials at vermonthap.vhfa.org or by calling the Homeowner Assistance Program information hotline, which is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, at 833-221-4208.
