PHILADELPHIA, PA — For many Philadelphians, the economic aftershocks of the pandemic linger on, casting long shadows over their financial stability. Despite the pandemic becoming less disruptive in 2024, countless city residents continue to grapple with financial stress. In response, numerous relief programs at the local, state, and federal levels are offering a much-needed lifeline.
One such relief came in the form of the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP), a state-funded initiative that provided over $13 million in water bill assistance to thousands of eligible Philadelphians. Although this temporary program stopped accepting applications in October 2022, there is another beacon of hope for homeowners struggling to keep up with their bills: the Pennsylvania Homeowner Assistance Fund (PAHAF).
PAHAF is a federally funded, statewide initiative that aims to alleviate the financial burden of homeowners by helping them pay off overdue utility, home loan, and property tax debts. If you’re a Philadelphia homeowner finding it tough to meet your utility expenses, including water bills, PAHAF could be a game-changer.
Here’s the deal: PAHAF provides eligible homeowners with a one-time grant of up to $10,000 to clear utility debts. And that’s not all. The program also offers up to $50,000 toward mortgage arrears and $14,000 for overdue property taxes. This financial aid can provide breathing room for families navigating the post-pandemic economic landscape.
But there’s a catch. PAHAF operates on a first-come, first-serve basis, resuming its application process on March 18 and continuing until the federal funding allocated for the program is exhausted. Consequently, Philadelphians who could benefit from this program should apply as swiftly as possible.
Now, here’s the best part: The financial aid received through PAHAF is a grant, not a loan. This means recipients are under no obligation to pay it back. It’s vital, however, to note that applications for PAHAF aren’t handled by the City of Philadelphia. Instead, eligible homeowners should apply directly through the PAHAF website or over the phone by calling (888) 987-2423.
In the face of persistent economic challenges, programs like PAHAF offer a beacon of hope for struggling homeowners. By helping Philadelphians clear their utility, home loan, and property tax arrears, PAHAF is not just providing financial relief—it’s offering a way forward toward financial recovery and stability.
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