Here’s how qualifying Tarrant County homeowners can apply for financial assistance
If you’re a Tarrant County property owner who has been financially impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, you can apply to the Texas Homeowner Assistance Fund Program for help with delinquent property taxes.
The Texas Homeowner Assistance Fund Program, administered by the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs, provides financial assistance to qualified Texas homeowners who have fallen behind on their mortgage and related expenses due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Funding for the program is provided by the Homeowner Assistance Fund under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.
Wendy Burgess, Tarrant County Tax Assessor-Collector, said in a statement for residents to apply for the funds before the program ends or runs out of money.
“The release of these funds is very timely and has already helped taxpayers in a test county in Texas, and Tarrant is an early adopter to benefit our taxpayers,” Burgess said.
Who qualifies for the Texas Homeowner Assistance Fund Program?
There are four criteria to meet in order to qualify for assistance.
Tarrant County residents who qualify must own and occupy a Texas home as a primary residence. Tarrant County officials said in a release that an existing homestead exemption with the Appraisal District must also be in place.
Qualifying homeowners must have an income at or below 100% of the area’s median income or 100% of the median income for the U.S., whichever is greater, and experienced a financial hardship after Jan. 21, 2020, such as lost income or increased expenses from the pandemic.
Homeowners must also have evidence of delinquency, such as an overdue tax statement or a notice from a tax attorney. Those who were late on one or more payments, including property taxes, mortgage, property insurance and HOA/condo fees, also qualify.
How much financial assistance does the program give?
Tarrant County officials said in a release that qualifying homeowners can apply for up to $25,000 that can cover delinquent property taxes and mortgage payments. The funds can also be applied to eligible court costs, abstract fees and other suit-related fees.
How do I apply?
If you’re a qualifying homeowner, applications can be submitted on texashomeownerassistance.com. Applicants can also check their status on the website.
What documents do I need to apply for the Texas Homeowner Assistance Fund Program?
Applicants must include an approved form of identification, such as a driver’s license, Social Security card, military ID, state ID or birth certificate.
Tarrant County officials said a verified income statement must also be submitted. This includes a W2 form, IRS Form 1099, tax return, pay stub and employer attestation.
