Williamson County Tax Assessor/Collector Larry Gaddes announced a new program designed to help homeowners stay in their homes. The American Rescue Plan passed by Congress provides money to help homeowners impacted by the pandemic avoid foreclosure of their homestead. The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) is implementing the program in Texas. It is set to go live on Monday, March 7, 2022.

“Homeowners that have delinquent taxes can apply to the program and if they qualify, TDHCA will send a check for the delinquent amount to my office so that the homeowner avoids foreclosure,” said Williamson County Tax Assessor/Collector Larry Gaddes. “The payment is a grant and not a loan. It really is a great program, and I encourage all homeowners to apply who may qualify and have delinquent taxes. “

The program will provide the Williamson County tax Office up to $25,000 for each homeowner who is eligible.

In order to qualify, property taxes must be delinquent, you must own and occupy the property as your primary residence, your household income must be at or below 100% of the Area Median Income (AMI) and the household must have experienced a qualified financial hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic. A financial hardship can be anything from having lost your job or having to pay more for childcare, medical supplies, food, clothing, etc.

Applicants will need to provide a form of identification, verify their income and provide evidence of delinquency. That includes a delinquent tax statement or a demand letter from a tax attorney.

For more information or to apply, homeowners can visit http://TexasHomeownerAssistance.com or call the TDHCA’s toll-free number at 833-651-3874.