What’s still free — and how to get it, even now that PAHAF has wound down.
If you searched for PAHAF and got confusing answers — some pages say it’s open, others say it’s closed — you’re not alone, and you’re not out of options.
What’s actually going on with PAHAF
The Pennsylvania Homeowner Assistance Fund (PAHAF) is a one-time program, built with federal COVID-era relief money, that helped thousands of homeowners across Bucks, Montgomery, Delaware, and Philadelphia counties catch up on mortgage and utility payments. That pot of money was always limited, and it has largely run its course — PAHAF is no longer accepting the kind of new mortgage-assistance applications it processed in 2022 through 2024.
If you were counting on PAHAF, that news can feel like the ground shifting under you. But PAHAF closing its doors doesn’t mean free help closed with it. There are still real, no-cost programs built specifically for Pennsylvania homeowners who are behind — or worried about falling behind.
What you can still do
- Start with a free housing counselor. A single call often uncovers options a homeowner didn’t know existed — repayment plans, loan modification, or forbearance (a temporary pause or reduction in payments while you get back on your feet).
- Ask about HEMAP. The Homeowners’ Emergency Mortgage Assistance Program is a Pennsylvania state loan — not a grant, so it’s repaid over time — built for homeowners facing hardship through no fault of their own. It can cover mortgage payments for up to 24 months while you recover.
- Check with your county. Some counties kept local hardship or tax-relief programs running even after PAHAF wound down. A free counselor can tell you what’s active where you live.
Free resources first
- PHFA Homeowner Counseling — 1-855-827-3466 or phfa.org. Free counselors who can also help start a HEMAP application.
- HUD-Approved Housing Counselors — hud.gov or 1-800-569-4287. A free, nationwide network; many locations offer bilingual support.
- PA 211 — dial 211 or visit pa211.org for a free connection to hardship programs in your county.
- PA Legal Aid Network — palegalaid.net. Free legal help if a lender is moving toward foreclosure.
When a trusted partner can help
If you’ve already spoken with a free counselor and your situation calls for a refinance or a loan modification your current lender won’t offer, we can also connect you with a lending partner we trust — always after the free options, and only if it genuinely fits your situation. No pressure, no obligation.
You’re not out of time, and you’re not out of options. Explore your options at wayoutnow.com/your-way-out, or schedule your free, pressure-free Strategy Session at WayOutNow.com. Hablamos español — text Glen or Brie anytime at 215-999-7208.
This article is for general information only and isn’t legal, financial, or tax advice. Program details and eligibility can change — please confirm current rules with PHFA, HEMAP, or a free HUD-approved counselor before making decisions. Way Out Now Solutions is not a lender, attorney, or tax advisor; outcomes vary by situation and nothing is guaranteed.
