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Facing the possibility of falling behind on mortgage payments or entering foreclosure is one of the most stressful experiences a homeowner can endure. The uncertainty and anxiety can be overwhelming, leaving many Montana families feeling isolated and unsure of where to turn.
It is essential to understand that you are not alone. A robust network of state, federal, and non-profit support systems exists to help you navigate this challenging time. This roadmap provides clear, actionable information to help you understand your options, access financial relief, and secure the stability of your home.
The Importance of Acting Quickly
Before delving into the specifics of various programs, taking immediate, strategic action can significantly alter the outcome of your situation. The most common mistake homeowners make is waiting too long to seek help, often out of fear or uncertainty.
Proactive communication is your most powerful tool. By taking two critical first steps, you can open doors to solutions you may not have known were available and begin to regain control of your financial future.
Critical First Action 1: Contact Your Lender/Servicer
The single most important initial step is to contact the company you send your mortgage payments to each month—your lender or loan servicer. While it may feel counterintuitive to speak with the entity you are struggling to pay, they are a crucial part of the solution. Lenders are often equipped with a range of options to assist homeowners, but they cannot offer help if they are unaware of your situation.
When you call, be prepared to explain your circumstances honestly. Lenders may be able to offer several forms of assistance, including:
It is vital to respond to all mail and phone calls from your lender. Keep detailed records of every conversation, including the date, time, and the name of the representative you spoke with.
Critical First Action 2: Contact a HUD-Approved Housing Counselor
Your second critical action is to connect with a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)-approved housing counselor. These trained, certified professionals provide free, expert, and unbiased guidance to homeowners. They are your personal advocate in this process, equipped to help you understand the complex landscape of mortgage assistance.
A HUD-approved housing counselor will work with you one-on-one to:
In Montana, organizations like NeighborWorks Montana and its statewide network of partners are leading providers of these essential services. You can find a local counselor by using the HUD online search tool or by calling their toll-free hotline at (800) 569-4287.
The Montana Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) is the state's primary mortgage relief program designed to address the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic. Understanding its purpose, eligibility, and application process is crucial for any homeowner whose financial struggles are linked to this period.
What is the Montana HAF Program?
Established through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), the HAF program was created to help homeowners avoid mortgage delinquencies, defaults, and foreclosures. Montana received a $50 million allocation, which is administered by the Montana Department of Commerce. The program's purpose is to mitigate financial hardships associated with the pandemic for homeowners who experienced a loss of income or an increase in living expenses after January 21, 2020.
Current Status: Is HAF Still Accepting Applications?
Yes, the core components of the Montana HAF program remain open and are accepting applications through the official program website. However, it is important to act quickly. The program is funded with a one-time allocation and is scheduled to expire on September 30, 2026, or sooner if the funds are fully expended.
Are You Eligible for HAF? A Detailed Checklist
To qualify for HAF assistance, homeowners must meet a specific set of criteria.
Types of Financial Assistance Available Through HAF
HAF assistance is provided as a grant, meaning it does not need to be repaid.
Discontinued HAF Programs (Important Update)
The Montana HAF program has evolved since its launch in July 2022, adapting to the needs of Montana homeowners. This has led to the discontinuation of certain components to reallocate resources where the need is greatest.
Why Were Some HAF Programs Discontinued?
The shift in program offerings reveals the primary financial pressures on low-income homeowners. For example, the homeowner insurance program ended due to low interest, and funds were redirected to meet a "900 percent increase in expenditures" for property tax assistance. This shows that rising property taxes are a more immediate threat to housing stability.
Similarly, the Home Repairs Program was discontinued after being overwhelmed with nearly double the projected applications in its first year. This highlights a significant underlying issue of aging housing stock and the inability of low-income owners to afford critical maintenance.
As of 2025, the following HAF programs are no longer accepting new applications:
How to Apply for HAF: A Step-by-Step Guide
The application process is managed online through the Montana Board of Housing. Preparing your documentation in advance will ensure a smoother process.
3. Application Portal: The application must be completed through the official Montana Board of Housing application portal. You will be required to create an account and upload your documentation electronically.
While the Homeowner Assistance Fund is a vital resource, it is a temporary program tied to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many homeowners may face hardship for other reasons or need assistance after HAF ends.
Fortunately, Montana's housing support landscape is a network of interconnected federal, state, and non-profit programs. This directory synthesizes this fragmented information into a single, coherent resource to help you identify the right program for your situation.
Comparison of Montana Homeowner Assistance Programs
| Program Name | Primary Goal | Who Is Eligible? | Type of Assistance | Where to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montana Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) | Prevent COVID-related mortgage delinquency and foreclosure | Homeowners with a COVID-19 financial hardship and income below 100% AMI | Grant up to $50,000 for mortgage reinstatement; up to $10,000 for lien prevention | Montana Department of Commerce / Board of Housing |
| Montana Department of Commerce / Board of Housing | Montana Department of Commerce / Board of Housing | Very-low-income homeowners in eligible rural areas; grants limited to those age 62+ | Low-interest loan up to $40,000; Grant up to $10,000 | USDA Rural Development |
| Montana Property Tax Rebate | Provide general property tax relief to homeowners | Montana homeowners who owned and lived in their principal residence for at least 7 months of the tax year | Tax rebate check mailed to homeowner (amount varies by year) | Montana Department of Revenue |
| Reverse Annuity Mortgage (RAM) Loan | Supplement income for seniors on fixed incomes by leveraging home equity | Homeowners age 68 or older with low household income | Low-interest loan paid out in monthly installments to the homeowner | Montana Department of Commerce / Board of Housing |
For Homeowners Facing Foreclosure
If you have received a notice of default or foreclosure, it is imperative to act immediately. Understanding the process and your rights is the first step toward preventing the loss of your home.
Understanding the Montana Foreclosure Process
In Montana, most home loans use a non-judicial foreclosure process known as a "power of sale," which is generally faster because it does not require a court order. The key steps include:
Your Rights as a Homeowner
Even when facing foreclosure, you have significant rights under Montana law:
Key Resources for Foreclosure Prevention
Several organizations in Montana specialize in providing free assistance to homeowners at risk of foreclosure.
Federal Mortgage and Housing Support Programs
Beyond state-level initiatives, several long-standing federal programs offer assistance to specific populations of homeowners.
Other State-Level Financial Relief
Montana offers additional programs that can provide financial relief, which can indirectly help with mortgage affordability.
Montana Property Tax Rebate Program
Separate from the HAF program, the Montana Department of Revenue administers a property tax rebate program. Eligibility requires that you owned and resided in your Montana property for at least seven months during the tax year. The rebate amount and qualifications can change based on legislative action.
The application window is typically from August 15 to October 1 each year. Applications are filed directly through the Department of Revenue's website.
Reverse Annuity Mortgage (RAM) Loans for Seniors
This unique program from the Montana Board of Housing is designed to help seniors "age in place". It is available to Montana homeowners who are 68 years of age or older and meet certain low-income limits. A RAM loan allows a senior to borrow against their home's equity.
Instead of making payments, the homeowner receives a monthly, tax-free payment from the loan. The loan is repaid only when the borrower sells the home, moves, or passes away. This provides a crucial source of supplemental income for seniors on a fixed budget.
Successfully navigating mortgage hardship requires more than just financial aid; it requires expert guidance and advocacy. The path to resolution is not just a financial one, but also a procedural and legal one.
While programs like HAF address the immediate need for funds, the support services detailed below address the equally critical needs for procedural guidance and legal protection. A comprehensive solution involves leveraging all three pillars of support.
Finding a HUD-Approved Housing Counselor: Your Most Important Ally
A housing counselor is a free, impartial expert whose only goal is to help you achieve the best possible outcome. Their role goes far beyond simply pointing you to a program.
A counselor will:
To find a certified housing counselor in Montana, use the official search tools provided by HUD or the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). Key agencies include the statewide network coordinated by
NeighborWorks Montana, as well as regional organizations like Rural Dynamics, Inc. and various Human Resources Development Councils (HRDCs).
Montana Legal Services Association (MLSA): Accessing Free Legal Help
When facing foreclosure, you are entering a legal process with strict rules and deadlines. The Montana Legal Services Association (MLSA) is a critical resource that provides free civil legal assistance to eligible low-income Montanans.
An attorney from MLSA can help by:
To see if you qualify for free legal assistance, contact the MLSA Helpline at 1-800-666-6899 or apply online through their self-help portal, MontanaLawHelp.org.
Local Support Through Community Action Agencies (HRDCs)
Montana is served by a network of 10 regional Community Action Agencies, known as Human Resource Development Councils (HRDCs). These agencies are local hubs for a wide array of anti-poverty programs and are often the first point of contact for families in crisis.
Your local HRDC may be able to provide or connect you with:
These agencies are deeply embedded in their local communities and can provide crucial on-the-ground support that complements more specific mortgage-related assistance.
Will HAF assistance pay off my entire mortgage? No. The HAF Mortgage Reinstatement Program is designed to bring a delinquent mortgage account current. It provides a maximum of $50,000 to cover past-due payments but will not pay off the entire principal balance of your loan.
Do I have to pay back HAF funds? No. The assistance provided through the Montana HAF program is a grant and does not need to be repaid.
What happens if my HAF application is denied? Your HUD-approved housing counselor can help you review the denial notice and determine the next steps. You may be able to appeal the decision or pivot to an alternative program that may be a better fit.
Can I get help if my hardship is not related to COVID-19? Yes. While HAF is specific to the pandemic, many other programs are not. The USDA Section 504 Home Repair Program, the state's Reverse Annuity Mortgage (RAM) loan for seniors, and the annual Montana Property Tax Rebate are available to eligible homeowners regardless of the cause of hardship.
How do I avoid foreclosure prevention scams? Be wary of any person or company that asks for a large upfront fee to help you. Legitimate help from HUD-approved housing counseling agencies is free. Never sign documents you don't understand, and always maintain direct contact with your lender and your housing counselor.
Can I get HAF help for a rental property I own? No. HAF funds and most other homeowner assistance programs are strictly limited to a homeowner's primary residence.
I'm a renter. Is there any help for me? Yes. The primary program for renters is the Montana Emergency Rental Assistance Program. You can find more information through the Montana Department of Commerce or by contacting your local HRDC.
Navigating the threat of mortgage delinquency and foreclosure is a daunting journey, but it is one you do not have to take alone. The state of Montana, in partnership with federal and non-profit organizations, has established a multi-layered support system to provide financial relief, expert guidance, and legal protection.
The key to a successful outcome is proactive engagement. The moment you anticipate difficulty making payments, your path forward begins with two powerful actions: contacting your lender and connecting with a free, HUD-approved housing counselor. These steps open the door to a wide range of solutions.
Seeking help is not a sign of failure; it is a sign of strength and a crucial step toward regaining financial stability. By using the resources outlined here, you can take control of your situation, understand your rights, and work toward the goal that matters most: remaining securely in your home.
Consolidated Contact List
The Montana Mortgage Relief Program, officially known as the Montana Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF), was a federally funded initiative managed by Montana Housing. It was created to provide financial aid to homeowners who experienced financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic, helping them avoid mortgage delinquency and foreclosure.
No, the Montana Mortgage Relief Program is no longer accepting new applications. The official deadline to apply was June 28, 2024, and the program is now closed to new registrants. Applications submitted before the deadline will continue to be processed, but no new requests for aid are being considered.
Eligibility for the Montana Homeowner Assistance Fund required homeowners to have a household income at or below 150% of the area median income and to have experienced a financial hardship after January 21, 2020. The property also had to be an owner-occupied primary residence located within the state of Montana.
The Montana Mortgage Relief Program offered comprehensive assistance beyond just mortgage payments. Funds could be applied to past-due mortgage principal and interest, property taxes, homeowner's insurance, lot rent for manufactured homes, and homeowner or condominium association fees. This approach provided holistic support to prevent displacement and foreclosure.
Now that the Montana Mortgage Relief Program has closed, homeowners in distress should immediately contact a HUD-approved housing counseling agency in Montana. These non-profit organizations offer free, expert advice on foreclosure prevention, communicating with your lender, and exploring available modification programs or other financial assistance options.
The Montana Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) provided a maximum of $50,000 in financial assistance per eligible household. This cap was established to ensure that the program's funds could be distributed effectively to help a significant number of Montana homeowners who were facing potential foreclosure due to pandemic-related financial struggles.
No, any financial assistance received from the Montana Mortgage Relief Program is not considered taxable income. Under federal guidance from the American Rescue Plan Act, these payments are non-taxable for the homeowner, ensuring the aid provided direct financial relief without creating a future tax burden for struggling families.
Funds from the Montana Mortgage Relief Program were paid directly to the service provider, not the homeowner. For instance, payments were sent directly to the mortgage lender, county tax authority, or insurance company. This method ensured that the assistance was applied correctly to the homeowner's past-due accounts.
Yes, if you submitted an application to the Montana Mortgage Relief Program before the June 28, 2024, deadline, you can still check its status. You should log in to the official Montana HAF portal using the credentials you created during registration to view updates on your application's progress.
The most reliable and official source of information for the closed Montana Mortgage Relief Program remains the Montana Housing website (housing.mt.gov). This website contains the definitive historical details, program guidelines, and final updates regarding the state's administration of the Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF).
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