If you're a Hillsborough County homeowner facing financial hardship, there are local and state programs that can help. Emergency mortgage assistance and property tax relief are available, but you need to know where to look. Homeowners in Hillsborough County can access various forms of assistance to prevent foreclosure and stay in their homes.
Based on federal consumer protection law and HUD/CFPB public guidance · Last reviewed July 2026
The Direct Answer
Hillsborough County offers several housing assistance programs, including the Homeowner Assistance Program (HAP) and the Property Tax Relief Program. These programs provide financial assistance to help homeowners pay their mortgages, property taxes, and other housing-related expenses.
To be eligible for these programs, homeowners must meet certain income and eligibility requirements, which vary depending on the program. For example, the HAP program requires homeowners to have a household income at or below 120% of the area median income, while the Property Tax Relief Program requires homeowners to be 65 or older or have a disability.
Do not pay upfront fees to anyone promising to help you with housing assistance. Legitimate programs do not charge application fees, and you should be wary of scams targeting distressed homeowners.
Emergency Mortgage Assistance
Program Overview
The Homeowner Assistance Program (HAP) provides emergency mortgage assistance to Hillsborough County homeowners who are facing foreclosure due to financial hardship. The program offers up to $50,000 in assistance to help homeowners pay their mortgages, property taxes, and insurance.
Eligible homeowners must have a household income at or below 120% of the area median income
Must be facing foreclosure due to financial hardship, such as job loss or medical emergency
Property Tax Relief
Program Details
The Property Tax Relief Program provides assistance to Hillsborough County homeowners who are 65 or older or have a disability. The program offers a reduction in property taxes, which can help homeowners save money on their housing expenses. For example, a homeowner with a $200,000 home and a $2,000 annual property tax bill could save up to $400 per year.
How to Apply
Application Process
To apply for housing assistance programs in Hillsborough County, homeowners should contact the Hillsborough County Housing Finance Authority or a local non-profit housing counseling agency. Homeowners will need to provide documentation, such as income verification and proof of hardship, to determine eligibility.
Contact the Hillsborough County Housing Finance Authority or a local non-profit housing counseling agency
Submit an application and required documentation
Wait for eligibility determination and assistance approval
Additional Resources
In addition to local programs, Hillsborough County homeowners may also be eligible for state and federal assistance programs, such as the Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) and the FHA Title I program. Homeowners should research these programs and contact the relevant agencies to determine eligibility and apply for assistance.
Get Help with Housing Assistance
If you're a Hillsborough County homeowner facing financial hardship, don't wait to seek help. Contact the Hillsborough County Housing Finance Authority or a local non-profit housing counseling agency to learn more about available assistance programs and apply for help.
What is the income limit for the Homeowner Assistance Program?
The income limit for the Homeowner Assistance Program is 120% of the area median income. For example, if the area median income is $50,000, the income limit would be $60,000.
Can I apply for both the Homeowner Assistance Program and the Property Tax Relief Program?
Yes, homeowners can apply for both programs, but they must meet the eligibility requirements for each program. Homeowners should contact the Hillsborough County Housing Finance Authority or a local non-profit housing counseling agency to determine eligibility and apply for assistance.
How long does it take to receive assistance through the Homeowner Assistance Program?
The processing time for the Homeowner Assistance Program can vary, but homeowners can typically expect to receive assistance within 30-60 days of applying. Homeowners should contact the Hillsborough County Housing Finance Authority or a local non-profit housing counseling agency for more information on the application process and timeline.
Are there any other resources available to help with housing expenses?
Yes, there are other resources available to help with housing expenses, such as the LIHEAP program, which provides assistance with energy bills, and the USDA Section 504 program, which provides grants and loans for home repairs. Homeowners should research these programs and contact the relevant agencies to determine eligibility and apply for assistance.