Gov. Pritzker: Applications open April 11 for homeowner assistance fund

CHICAGO, Ill. (WIFR) - Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Housing Development Authority (IHDA) Wednesday announced the Illinois Homeowner Assistance Fund (ILHAF) application opens April 11 to help homeowners who have fallen behind on mortgage payments and related housing expenses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Lawmakers announced the relief program for homeowners affected by the pandemic in February. Application information can be found on the IDHS website, here.

“This program will help to combat the economic stress brought on by the pandemic and provide relief to thousands of families,” says Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton. “Our administration continues to set our sights on supporting Illinois families because housing is a right and we are committed to ensuring just that.”

The Illinois Emergency Homeowner Assistance Fund (ILHAF), will give up to $30 thousand in aid per homeowner to curb mortgage delinquencies, defaults and foreclosures. The goal of the program is to help stabilize Illinois families while they regain financial footing.

The following documents are required to apply for ILHAF assistance:

Proof of identification, including but not limited to a driver’s license, state ID, permanent residency card or other form of ID.
Proof of household income, including but not limited to tax returns, pay stubs, or other documentation.
Proof of occupancy, including but not limited to a bank statement, cell phone bill, credit/debit card statement, or other documentation.
Proof of ownership, including but not limited to a property tax bill, property deed, or other documentation.
Delinquency statement, including but not limited to a mortgage statement, property tax statement, insurance statement, or HOA/Condo Association statement.

Funds from the program will go directly to the servicer, taxing body or other approved entity on behalf of Illinois homeowners.

“I implore homeowners behind on their mortgage to take the necessary steps to ensure they are eligible to apply for help through ILHAF,” said State Rep. Lindsey LaPointe (D-Chicago).

Struggling homeowners are federally required to look for other relief options before they are eligible to apply for this assistance.

To qualify, applicants must have experienced a financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic after Jan. 21, 2020 and must currently own and occupy their home in Illinois as their primary residence. A list of other requirements is available here.

“After allocating over a billion dollars to assist renters and landlords avoid eviction and foreclosure, it is now time to help Illinois homeowners and their neighborhoods in their recovery from the pandemic,” said IHDA Executive Director Kristin Faust. “IHDA has a proven track record over the past decade in providing help to homeowners struggling to pay their housing expenses in the midst of economic strife.”