There’s now relief available for some Hamilton County homeowners who may have fallen behind on paying their mortgage, property taxes and utility bills.
On Wednesday, the Hamilton County commissioners approved the reallocation of $701,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to provide payment assistance to eligible homeowners. With this reallocation, commissioners say the Hamilton County Mortgage, Property Tax and Utility Program now has $1.4 million to help cover up to six months of past-due mortgage, property taxes and utilities for owner-occupied properties.
“At 513Relief Bus stops, at commission meetings and at community gatherings across Hamilton County, we have heard directly from homeowners about the need for help,” Commission President Alicia Reece said in a press release. “This funding allows us to extend the program to help more homeowners who are struggling to stay in their homes, keep the lights on and help pay property taxes.”
Many Hamilton County homeowners felt sticker shock after seeing how much their property taxes have gone up in 2024 — some as much as tripling. Some homeowners are also worried the increases will force them from their homes.
“We need to do what we can to help struggling homeowners pay property tax increases,” Commissioner Denise Driehaus said in the release. “As we spend down our ARPA funds we will continue to be nimble and respond as quickly as possible to the needs of the community.”
To qualify for assistance, homeowners must have an established connection to the residence, and the property must be the applicant’s primary residence. Assistance won’t be provided for second homes, rental properties or Airbnb or similar-use properties. Homeowners must also have an income under 300% of the Federal Poverty Level (for example, a single-person household making less than $45,180 annually, or a three-person household making less than $77,460).
Commissioners say, to date, Hamilton County Jobs and Family Services has helped about 1,000 residents with mortgage assistance.
“Words cannot express how gratified I am to offer additional relief to families who need help right now,” Commissioner Stephanie Summerow Dumas said in the release. “We want to get the word out and make sure that it reaches every eligible homeowner in Hamilton County.”
Homeowners can apply for relief at 513Reflief.org. If you experience internet or computer issues, you can contact United Way Care Navigators by calling 211.
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This article appears in Feb 21 – Mar 5, 2024.
