By: Mia Watson

July 27, 2020

Vermont Housing Finance Agency (VHFA) has announced an expansion of the Vermont Mortgage Assistance Program in order to assist more Vermont homeowners who have fallen behind on their mortgage and are facing economic hardship brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Previously VHFA had announced that the program would provide up to three monthly mortgage payments directly to the servicer of the mortgage with a goal of preventing future foreclosure. Upon review, the agency is expanding the program to cover up to six monthly mortgage payments. Grants to homeowners still must be made towards actual delinquent mortgage payments that have already been missed by the time of application. However, recipients may receive less than six months of payments depending on funding availability. Existing applicants need not reapply to receive this extended benefit.

VHFA also announced that owners of mobile homes who have mortgages and meet other eligibility criteria  can receive assistance through the Mortgage Assistance Program, in addition to assistance with their lot rental payments through the Vermont State Housing Authority.

All other eligibility criteria remains the same. Applicants must apply by August 31. For further questions, please contact Vermont Legal Aid/Legal Services at (800) 889-2047.