Frequently Asked Questions:
How do I apply for assistance?
To apply, you must complete the online application on this website.
Is there any special equipment I need to complete the application process?
You must have the following:
- 1. Access to the internet (the application could take up to an hour to complete)
- 2. An email account allows HHA to send notifications electronically
- 3. A scanner or fax machine to transmit documents required to complete the application process
Is this assistance coming out of the State of Alabama's budget?
These funds have been provided to the State of Alabama by the United States Department of Treasury to assist homeowners in the states hit hardest by unemployment.
Do I have to be currently unemployed to receive assistance?
You must be currently receiving unemployment compensation in order to qualify for assistance.
How much assistance can I receive?
The maximum assistance may not exceed $25,000.
HHA will provide up to $12,500, to reinstate a loan. If the total required to reinstate exceeds $12,500, the homeowner can pay the shortfall to fully reinstate the loan if acceptable to the loan servicer. The total amount paid may include all outstanding fees required to bring the loan current (late fees, attorney fees, PITI, etc.).
Do I have to repay the assistance?
You may have to repay all or a portion of the assistance if:
1. You no longer occupy the property as your primary residence.
2. You sell the property.
3. Mortgage fraud is found.
Can I be in bankruptcy and qualify for the program?
No, homeowners in active bankruptcy are not eligible.
My home is scheduled for foreclosure sale, can I still qualify?
You may. You will have to complete the prequalification and application process before it can be determined.
I own a manufactured home. Am I eligible?
You may be eligible if you own both the manufactured home and the land that it sits upon. If you own the manufactured
home and not the land, you are NOT eligible.
What happens if I find a job after I am approved for assistance?
If you find employment after you are approved for assistance or during the time you are receiving assistance, you may be
eligible for a maximum of 2 months assistance if you have not exceeded the maximum assistance allowed.
How can I find out what my mortgage balance?
Please refer to your monthly mortgage statement or contact your servicer directly.
How do I find out the name of my loan servicer?
Your loan servicer is the agency/company you make your mortgage payments to.
How long will this approval process take?
Please allow up to 6 weeks for processing your application.
I was self-employed, and I have been forced to close my business. Am I eligible?
Maybe. In order to qualify for HHA assistance, you must be eligible to receive unemployment compensation benefits.
I work outside of Alabama, but I live in Alabama. Am I eligible?
Maybe. To be eligible, homeowner's unemployment eligibility must be verifiable through the applicapable state agency that is responsible for issuing unemployment benefits.
Can the mortgage payments be mailed to me directly, and I will mail them to the servicer?
No, all disbursements must be delivered directly to the loan servicer.
What if I have a child who is under the age of 18 but works, do you have to count his/her income?
Only if the income is derived from child support, SSI, SSDI or any other funding source that is not W-2 income in the child's name only.
Will this program negatively affect my credit?
No.
What happens if a homeowner's decides to sell the property while in the disbursement phase of the program?
At the point of sale, disbursements will stop and recapture will apply if there are sufficient funds to repay the assistance provided.
If the homeowners are separated, does the income of the spouse not living in the property have to be counted towards the maximum income limit?
Yes. The income of both parties must be counted.
Do I have to have insurance on the property to qualify for this assistance?
Yes. If your loan does not escrow for insurance, you are required to provide proof of insurance.
Can I call in and complete my application over the phone?
No. All applications must be competed online.
Why do I have to sign a note and mortgage to receive this assistance?
Although you are not required to repay this assistance (unless you meet one of the recapture triggers), the US Department of Treasury requires that a 0% mortgage be recorded.
Will I be required to pay any closing costs?
No. Homeowners are not required to pay any closing costs.
