Government Programs
12 terms
The federal government maintains a layered safety net for households in financial distress — from mortgage-specific interventions like the Homeowner Assistance Fund to broader income support through SNAP and TANF. These programs activate at different stages of the distress cascade the American Distress Index tracks, from early buffer depletion through active foreclosure.
Understanding which programs exist, who qualifies, and how to access them is critical for households navigating financial hardship. Many of these programs are underutilized because eligible families don't know they exist. The GFC-era programs (HAMP, HARP, Making Home Affordable) have expired but established the template that current loss mitigation options follow.
Housing Assistance Programs
| Program | Type | Status | Who It Helps |
|---|---|---|---|
| HAF (Homeowner Assistance Fund) | Mortgage payment assistance | Active (winding down) | Homeowners behind on mortgage |
| Section 8 / HCV | Rental vouchers | Active (long waitlists) | Low-income renters |
| FHA Streamline | Refinance without appraisal | Active | Existing FHA borrowers |
| HAMP | Loan modification | Expired (2016) | Historical: GFC-era homeowners |
| LIHEAP | Energy bill assistance | Active | Low-income households |
| SNAP | Food assistance | Active | Low-income households |
See Find a Professional for HUD-approved counselors who can help identify programs you qualify for, or Behind on Your Mortgage for step-by-step guidance.