Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 1 –

APPENDIX A - Program Term Sheets

MORTGAGE PAYMENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

1. Program 

Overview

The Florida Mortgage Payment Assistance Program will 

assist in preserving homeownership and creating housing 

stability by preventing foreclosure and displacement through 

the Homeowner Assistance Fund.

For income qualified, eligible homeowners, the Mortgage 

Payment Assistance Program will do so by paying all or a 

portion of future interest on and principal of first and 

subordinate mortgage loans and escrow payments for up to 

18 months.

2. Mortgage 

Payment 

Assistance 

Program Goals

To provide financial assistance to eligible Florida 

homeowners to prevent foreclosure and displacement, 

therefore preserving homeownership and providing housing 

stability to Floridians in need.

3. Targeted 

Population of 

Homeowners 

Based on the data-driven assessment of homeowner needs, 

DEO will strategically target Florida homeowners whose 

household income is less than or equal to 100 percent of the 

area median income or the median income in the United 

States, whichever is greater, and Socially Disadvantaged 

Individuals.

4. Eligible 

Homeowners

“Eligible Homeowners” for the Mortgage Payment Assistance 

Program must satisfy the following criteria:

• The homeowner must have experienced a Qualified 

Financial Hardship after January 21, 2020 (including a 

hardship that began before January 21, 2020, but continued 

after that date), and provide an attestation, describing the 

nature of the financial hardship.

• The homeowner must currently own and occupy the 

property as their primary residence.

• The homeowner must meet the Homeowner Income 

Eligibility Requirements for the household.

• Homeowners who have previously filed for bankruptcy 

but who are no longer in bankruptcy must provide proof of 

court ordered discharge or dismissal.

• The homeowner must complete and sign qualifying 

hardship affidavit/attestation, application, terms of service, 
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 2 –

consent forms, and any other documentation required by 

DEO.

• The homeowner must provide all necessary 

documentation to satisfy program guidelines within 

timeframes established by DEO, including self-certification or 

attestation of income and Socially Disadvantaged Individual 

status, as applicable.

• Co-owners may not separately apply for program 

assistance.

5. Eligible Legal 

Ownership 

Structures

“Eligible Legal Ownership Structures” include only the 

following:

• Those where the home is owned exclusively by one 

or more natural persons; or

• Those where the homeowner has transferred their 

ownership right into non-incorporated, revocable living trust 

and the homeowner occupies the home as their 

primary/principal residence.

6. Qualified 

Financial 

Hardship

A “Qualified Financial Hardship” is a material reduction in 

income or material increase in living expenses associated 

with the coronavirus pandemic that has created or increased 

a risk of mortgage delinquency, mortgage default, 

foreclosure, loss of utilities or home energy services, or 

displacement for a homeowner (including a hardship that 

began before January 21, 2020, but continued after that 

date).

• Reduction of Income – Documented temporary or 

permanent loss of earned income directly related to the 

coronavirus pandemic after January 21, 2020 (e.g., job loss 

or reduction in working hours).

• Increase in living expenses – Documented increase in 

out-of-pocket household expenses directly related to the 

coronavirus pandemic after January 21, 2020 (e.g., increased 

costs to care for a family member).

7. Homeowner 

Income 

Eligibility 

Requirements

To be eligible for assistance under the Mortgage Payment 

Assistance Program, homeowners must have incomes that 

are less than or equal to 150 percent of the area median 

income or 100 percent of the median income in the United 

States, whichever is greater.
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 3 –

8. Homeowner 

Prioritization

DEO will prioritize funding to the following populations:

• At least 70% of the financial assistance made 

available under the programs in the Plan (including the 

Mortgage Payment Assistance Program) will be, in the 

aggregate, used for qualified expenses for homeowners 

whose incomes are less than or equal to 100 percent of the 

area median income or the median income in the United 

States, whichever is greater.

• Amounts not made available to homeowners who 

meet the above income-targeting requirement will be 

prioritized for assistance to Socially Disadvantaged 

Individuals. 

All remaining funds not otherwise prioritized will be made 

available for other Eligible Homeowners.

9. Eligible 

Properties

“Eligible Properties” are residential properties that are located 

in Florida, which are:

• Single-family (attached or detached) properties;

• Condominium units;

• One to four-unit properties where the homeowner is 

living in one of the units as their primary residence;

• Manufactured homes permanently affixed to real 

property and taxed as real estate; or

• Mobile homes not permanently affixed to real 

property. 

Ineligible residential properties include:

• Vacant or abandoned residences;

• Second homes; and

• Investment properties.

10. Eligible Uses of 

Mortgage 

Payment 

Assistance 

Program 

Proceeds

The following housing obligations that have not been incurred 

prior to the homeowner’s application submission date are 

eligible for payment under the Mortgage Payment Assistance 

Program:

• Existing first mortgage loan payment(s) (principal and 

interest).
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 4 –

• Existing subordinate mortgage loan payment(s) 

(principal and interest).

• Existing manufactured/mobile home loan payment(s) 

(principal and interest).

• Escrow payments.

11. Maximum Per 

Household 

Mortgage 

Payment 

Assistance 

Program 

Assistance

The maximum Mortgage Payment Assistance Program 

financial assistance per household will be $50,000 and the 

maximum HAF assistance per household will be $50,000 

(inclusive of Mortgage Payment Assistance Program financial 

assistance).

12. Assistance 

Type

The financial assistance will be structured as a non-recourse 

grant.

13. Payout of 

Mortgage 

Payment 

Assistance 

Program 

Assistance

DEO will disburse Mortgage Payment Assistance Program 

payments directly to lenders or loan servicers.

DEO will disburse the amount quoted by the lender/servicer 

and any discrepancies will be required to be resolved by the 

homeowner and lender/servicer.

14. Program 

Launch

Pending approval by Treasury, DEO is endeavoring to launch 

the program to the public statewide in 2021.

15. Required 

Application 

Documents

The following documents may be required:

• Application;

• Borrower consent form;

• Terms of Service; 

• Qualifying written hardship attestation identifying and 

certifying the eligible hardship and that it occurred after 

January 21, 2020 (including a hardship that began before 

January 21, 2020, but continued after that date);

• If the eligible property is located in a census tract in 

which the median income satisfies the median income 

requirements of the Mortgage Payment Assistance Program,

then a qualifying written income attestation certifying the 

homeowner’s household income;

• If the eligible property is not located in a census tract 

in which the median income satisfies the median income 
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 5 –

requirements of the Mortgage Payment Assistance Program, 

then a qualifying written income attestation certifying the 

homeowner’s household income together with supporting 

documentation (e.g., paystubs, W2s or other wage 

statements, IRS Form 1099s, tax filings, depository institution 

statements demonstrating regular income, or an attestation 

from an employer);

• Attestation that the homeowner is a “Socially 

Disadvantaged Individual” (if applicable);

• Mortgage statement for each lien (e.g., first mortgage, 

second mortgage, etc.);

• Manufactured/mobile home loan statement;

• Social security number card or unique identifier as 

shown on a legal document, such as a federal tax return; 

• Payee’s contact and account information if not listed 

on monthly statement; and 

• Any additional documents and information that DEO 

may require.

16. Program 

Partner 

Requirements

Lenders/servicers may be required to agree to communicate 

using the Common Data File (CDF) format provided by the 

Treasury.

Private non-mortgage lenders, including 

manufactured/mobile home lenders may be required to 

provide a written delinquency statement, contact information, 

and ACH account information.
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 6 –

MORTGAGE REINSTATEMENT PROGRAM

1. Program 

Overview

The Florida Mortgage Reinstatement Program will assist in 

preserving homeownership and creating housing stability by 

preventing foreclosure and displacement through the 

Homeowner Assistance Fund.

The Mortgage Reinstatement Program will do so by providing 

financial assistance for income-qualified, eligible 

homeowners to assist in curing their first and subordinate 

mortgage loan arrearages, which may also include payments 

needed to reinstate their loans from foreclosure or deferred 

payments.

2. Mortgage 

Reinstatement 

Program Goals

To provide financial assistance to eligible Florida 

homeowners to bring delinquent accounts associated with 

homeownership current to prevent foreclosure and 

displacement, therefore preserving homeownership and 

providing housing stability to Floridians in need.

3. Targeted 

Population of 

Homeowners 

Based on the data-driven assessment of homeowner needs, 

DEO will strategically target Florida homeowners whose 

household income is less than or equal to 100 percent of the 

area median income or the median income in the United 

States, whichever is greater, and Socially Disadvantaged 

Individuals.

4. Eligible 

Homeowners

“Eligible Homeowners” for the Mortgage Reinstatement 

Program must satisfy the following criteria:

• The homeowner must have experienced a Qualified 

Financial Hardship after January 21, 2020 (including a 

hardship that began before January 21, 2020, but continued 

after that date), and provide an attestation, describing the 

nature of the financial hardship.

• The homeowner must currently own and occupy the 

property as their primary residence.

• The homeowner must meet the Homeowner Income 

Eligibility Requirements for the household.

• Homeowners who have previously filed for bankruptcy 

but who are no longer in bankruptcy must provide proof of 

court ordered discharge or dismissal.

• The homeowner must complete and sign qualifying 

hardship affidavit/attestation, application, terms of service, 

consent forms, and any other documentation required by 

DEO.
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 7 –

• The homeowner must provide all necessary 

documentation to satisfy program guidelines within 

timeframes established by DEO, including self-certification or 

attestation of income and Socially Disadvantaged Individual 

status, as applicable.

• Co-owners may not separately apply for program 

assistance.

5. Eligible Legal 

Ownership 

Structures

“Eligible Legal Ownership Structures” include only the 

following:

• Those where the home is owned exclusively by one 

or more natural persons; or

• Those where the homeowner has transferred their 

ownership right into non-incorporated, revocable living trust 

and the homeowner occupies the home as their 

primary/principal residence.

6. Qualified 

Financial 

Hardship

A “Qualified Financial Hardship” is a material reduction in 

income or material increase in living expenses associated 

with the coronavirus pandemic that has created or increased 

a risk of mortgage delinquency, mortgage default, 

foreclosure, loss of utilities or home energy services, or 

displacement for a homeowner (including a hardship that 

began before January 21, 2020, but continued after that 

date).

• Reduction of Income – Documented temporary or 

permanent loss of earned income directly related to the 

coronavirus pandemic after January 21, 2020 (e.g., job loss 

or reduction in working hours).

• Increase in living expenses – Documented increase in 

out-of-pocket household expenses directly related to the 

coronavirus pandemic after January 21, 2020 (e.g., increased 

costs to care for a family member).

7. Homeowner 

Income 

Eligibility 

Requirements

To be eligible for assistance under the Mortgage 

Reinstatement Program, homeowners must have incomes 

that are less than or equal to 150 percent of the area median 

income or 100 percent of the median income in the United 

States, whichever is greater.
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 8 –

8. Homeowner 

Prioritization

DEO will prioritize funding to the following populations:

• At least 70% of the financial assistance made 

available under the programs in the Plan (including the 

Mortgage Reinstatement Program) will be, in the aggregate, 

used for qualified expenses for homeowners whose incomes 

are less than or equal to 100 percent of the area median 

income or the median income in the United States, whichever 

is greater.

• Amounts not made available to homeowners who 

meet the above income-targeting requirement will be 

prioritized for assistance to Socially Disadvantaged 

Individuals. 

All remaining funds not otherwise prioritized will be made 

available for other Eligible Homeowners.

9. Eligible 

Properties

“Eligible Properties” are residential properties that are located 

in Florida, which are:

• Single-family (attached or detached) properties;

• Condominium units;

• One to four-unit properties where the homeowner is 

living in one of the units as their primary residence;

• Manufactured homes permanently affixed to real 

property and taxed as real estate; or

• Mobile homes not permanently affixed to real 

property. 

Ineligible residential properties include:

• Vacant or abandoned residences;

• Second homes; and

• Investment properties.

10. Eligible Uses of 

Mortgage 

Reinstatement 

Program

Proceeds

The following housing obligations that have been incurred 

after September 30, 2019 are eligible for payment under the 

Mortgage Reinstatement Program:

• Existing first mortgage loan payment(s) (principal and 

interest), escrow shortages or deficiencies, and any interestbearing or non-interest bearing forbearance balance.
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 9 –

• Existing subordinate mortgage loan payment(s) 

(principal and interest), escrow shortages or deficiencies, and 

any interest-bearing or non-interest bearing forbearance 

balance, which may be subject to certain programmatic 

limitations.

• Existing manufactured/mobile home loan payment(s) 

(principal and interest), escrow shortages or deficiencies, and 

any interest-bearing or non-interest bearing forbearance 

balance, which may be subject to certain programmatic 

limitations.

11. Maximum Per 

Household 

Mortgage 

Reinstatement 

Program

Assistance

The maximum Mortgage Reinstatement Program financial 

assistance per household will be $50,000 and the maximum 

HAF assistance per household will be $50,000 (inclusive of 

Mortgage Reinstatement Program financial assistance).

12. Assistance 

Type

The financial assistance will be structured as a non-recourse 

grant.

13. Payout of 

Mortgage 

Reinstatement 

Program

Assistance

DEO will disburse Mortgage Reinstatement Program

payments directly to lenders or loan servicers.

DEO will disburse the amount quoted by the lender/servicer 

and any discrepancies will be required to be resolved by the 

homeowner and lender/servicer.

14. Program 

Launch

Pending approval by Treasury, DEO is endeavoring to launch 

the program to the public statewide in 2021.

15. Required 

Application 

Documents

The following documents may be required:

• Application;

• Borrower consent form;

• Terms of Service; 

• Qualifying written hardship attestation identifying and 

certifying the eligible hardship and that it occurred after 

January 21, 2020 (including a hardship that began before 

January 21, 2020, but continued after that date);

• If the eligible property is located in a census tract in 

which the median income satisfies the median income 

requirements of the Mortgage Reinstatement Program, then 

a qualifying written income attestation certifying the 

homeowner’s household income;
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 10 –

• If the eligible property is not located in a census tract 

in which the median income satisfies the median income 

requirements of the Mortgage Reinstatement Program, then 

a qualifying written income attestation certifying the 

homeowner’s household income together with supporting 

documentation (e.g., paystubs, W2s or other wage 

statements, IRS Form 1099s, tax filings, depository institution 

statements demonstrating regular income, or an attestation 

from an employer);

• Attestation that the homeowner is a “Socially 

Disadvantaged Individual” (if applicable);

• Mortgage statement for each lien (e.g., first mortgage, 

second mortgage, etc.);

• Manufactured/mobile home loan statement;

• Social security number card or unique identifier as 

shown on a legal document, such as a federal tax return; 

• Payee’s contact and account information if not listed 

on monthly statement; and 

• Any additional documents and information that DEO 

may require.

16. Program 

Partner 

Requirements

Lenders/servicers may be required to agree to communicate 

using the Common Data File (CDF) format provided by the 

Treasury.

Private non-mortgage lenders, including 

manufactured/mobile home lenders may be required to 

provide a written delinquency statement, contact information, 

and ACH account information.
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 11 –

DOWN PAYMENT LOAN ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

1. Program 

Overview

The Florida Down Payment Loan Assistance Program will 

assist in preserving homeownership and creating housing 

stability by preventing foreclosure and displacement through 

the Homeowner Assistance Fund.

The Down Payment Loan Assistance Program will do so by 

providing financial assistance for income-qualified, eligible 

homeowners to assist in curing their down payment 

assistance loan arrearages, which may also include 

payments needed to reinstate their loans from foreclosure or 

deferred payments.

For income qualified, eligible homeowners, the Down 

Payment Loan Assistance Program may also pay all or a 

portion of future interest on and principal of down payment 

assistance loans.

2. Down Payment 

Loan 

Assistance 

Program Goals

To provide financial assistance to eligible Florida 

homeowners to bring delinquent accounts associated with 

homeownership current to prevent foreclosure and 

displacement, therefore preserving homeownership and 

providing housing stability to Floridians in need.

3. Targeted 

Population of 

Homeowners 

Based on the data-driven assessment of homeowner needs, 

DEO will strategically target Florida homeowners whose 

household income is less than or equal to 100 percent of the 

area median income or the median income in the United 

States, whichever is greater, and Socially Disadvantaged 

Individuals.

4. Eligible 

Homeowners

“Eligible Homeowners” for the Down Payment Loan 

Assistance Program must satisfy the following criteria:

• The homeowner must have experienced a Qualified 

Financial Hardship after January 21, 2020 (including a 

hardship that began before January 21, 2020, but continued

after that date), and provide an attestation, describing the 

nature of the financial hardship.

• The homeowner must currently own and occupy the 

property as their primary residence.

• The homeowner must meet the Homeowner Income 

Eligibility Requirements for the household.

• Homeowners who have previously filed for bankruptcy 

but who are no longer in bankruptcy must provide proof of 

court ordered discharge or dismissal.
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 12 –

• The homeowner must complete and sign qualifying 

hardship affidavit/attestation, application, terms of service, 

consent forms, and any other documentation required by 

DEO.

• The homeowner must provide all necessary 

documentation to satisfy program guidelines within 

timeframes established by DEO, including self-certification or 

attestation of income and Socially Disadvantaged Individual 

status, as applicable.

• Co-owners may not separately apply for program 

assistance.

5. Eligible Legal 

Ownership 

Structures

“Eligible Legal Ownership Structures” include only the 

following:

• Those where the home is owned exclusively by one or 

more natural persons; or

• Those where the homeowner has transferred their 

ownership right into non-incorporated, revocable living trust 

and the homeowner occupies the home as their 

primary/principal residence.

6. Qualified 

Financial 

Hardship

A “Qualified Financial Hardship” is a material reduction in 

income or material increase in living expenses associated 

with the coronavirus pandemic that has created or increased 

a risk of mortgage delinquency, mortgage default, 

foreclosure, loss of utilities or home energy services, or 

displacement for a homeowner (including a hardship that 

began before January 21, 2020, but continued after that 

date).

• Reduction of Income – Documented temporary or 

permanent loss of earned income directly related to the 

coronavirus pandemic after January 21, 2020 (e.g., job loss 

or reduction in working hours).

• Increase in living expenses – Documented increase in 

out-of-pocket household expenses directly related to the 

coronavirus pandemic after January 21, 2020 (e.g., increased 

costs to care for a family member).

7. Homeowner 

Income 

Eligibility 

Requirements

To be eligible for assistance under the Down Payment Loan 

Assistance Program, homeowners must have incomes that 

are less than or equal to 150 percent of the area median 

income or 100 percent of the median income in the United 

States, whichever is greater.
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 13 –

8. Homeowner 

Prioritization

DEO will prioritize funding to the following populations:

• At least 70% of the financial assistance made 

available under the programs in the Plan (including the Down 

Payment Loan Assistance Program) will be, in the aggregate, 

used for qualified expenses for homeowners whose incomes 

are less than or equal to 100 percent of the area median 

income or the median income in the United States, whichever 

is greater.

• Amounts not made available to homeowners who 

meet the above income-targeting requirement will be 

prioritized for assistance to Socially Disadvantaged 

Individuals. 

All remaining funds not otherwise prioritized will be made 

available for other Eligible Homeowners.

9. Eligible 

Properties

“Eligible Properties” are residential properties that are located 

in Florida, which are:

• Single-family (attached or detached) properties;

• Condominium units;

• One to four-unit properties where the homeowner is 

living in one of the units as their primary residence;

• Manufactured homes permanently affixed to real 

property and taxed as real estate; or

• Mobile homes not permanently affixed to real 

property. 

Ineligible residential properties include:

• Vacant or abandoned residences;

• Second homes; and

• Investment properties.

10. Eligible Uses of 

Down Payment 

Loan 

Assistance 

Program 

Proceeds

Proceeds from the Down Payment Loan Assistance Program 

may be used to pay existing down payment assistance loan 

payment(s) (principal and interest) that have been incurred 

after September 30, 2019.
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 14 –

11. Maximum Per 

Household 

Down Payment 

Loan 

Assistance 

Program 

Assistance

The maximum Down Payment Loan Assistance Program 

financial assistance per household will be $20,000 and the 

maximum HAF assistance per household will be $50,000 

(inclusive of Down Payment Loan Assistance Program 

financial assistance).

12. Assistance 

Type

The financial assistance will be structured as a non-recourse 

grant.

13. Payout of Down 

Payment Loan 

Assistance 

Program 

Assistance

DEO will disburse Down Payment Loan Assistance Program 

payments directly to lenders or loan servicers.

DEO will disburse the amount quoted by the lender/servicer 

and any discrepancies will be required to be resolved by the 

homeowner and lender/servicer.

14. Program 

Launch

Pending approval by Treasury, DEO is endeavoring to launch 

the program to the public statewide in 2021.

15. Required 

Application 

Documents

The following documents may be required:

• Application;

• Borrower consent form;

• Terms of Service; 

• Qualifying written hardship attestation identifying and 

certifying the eligible hardship and that it occurred after 

January 21, 2020 (including a hardship that began before 

January 21, 2020, but continued after that date);

• If the eligible property is located in a census tract in 

which the median income satisfies the median income 

requirements of the Down Payment Loan Assistance 

Program, then a qualifying written income attestation 

certifying the homeowner’s household income;

• If the eligible property is not located in a census tract 

in which the median income satisfies the median income 

requirements of the Down Payment Loan Assistance 

Program, then a qualifying written income attestation 

certifying the homeowner’s household income together with 

supporting documentation (e.g., paystubs, W2s or other wage 

statements, IRS Form 1099s, tax filings, depository institution 

statements demonstrating regular income, or an attestation 

from an employer);
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 15 –

• Attestation that the homeowner is a “Socially 

Disadvantaged Individual” (if applicable);

• Loan statement for the down payment assistance 

loan;

• Social security number card or unique identifier as 

shown on a legal document, such as a federal tax return; 

• Payee’s contact and account information if not listed 

on monthly statement; and 

• Any additional documents and information that DEO 

may require.

16. Program 

Partner 

Requirements

Lenders/servicers may be required to agree to communicate 

using the Common Data File (CDF) format provided by the 

Treasury.

Private non-mortgage lenders, including 

manufactured/mobile home lenders may be required to 

provide a written delinquency statement, contact information, 

and ACH account information.
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 16 –

DELINQUENT PROPERTY TAX ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

1. Program 

Overview

The Florida Delinquent Property Tax Assistance Program will 

assist in preserving homeownership and creating housing 

stability by preventing foreclosure and displacement through 

the Homeowner Assistance Fund.

The Delinquent Property Tax Assistance Program will do so 

by providing financial assistance for income-qualified, eligible 

homeowners, to assist in paying property tax delinquencies.

2. Delinquent 

Property Tax 

Assistance Program 

Goals

To provide financial assistance to eligible Florida 

homeowners to bring delinquent property taxes current to 

prevent foreclosure and displacement, therefore preserving 

homeownership and providing housing stability to Floridians 

in need.

3. Targeted 

Population of 

Homeowners 

Based on the data-driven assessment of homeowner needs, 

DEO will strategically target Florida homeowners whose 

income is less than or equal to 100 percent of the area 

median income or the median income in the United States, 

whichever is greater, and Socially Disadvantaged Individuals.

4. Eligible 

Homeowners

“Eligible Homeowners” for the Delinquent Property Tax 

Assistance Program must satisfy the following criteria:

• The homeowner must have experienced a Qualified 

Financial Hardship after January 21, 2020 (including a 

hardship that began before January 21, 2020, but continued 

after that date), and provide an attestation, describing the 

nature of the financial hardship.

• The homeowner must currently own and occupy the 

property as their primary residence.

• The homeowner must meet the Homeowner Income 

Eligibility Requirements for the household.

• Homeowners who have previously filed for bankruptcy 

but who are no longer in bankruptcy must provide proof of 

court ordered discharge or dismissal.

• The homeowner must complete and sign qualifying 

hardship affidavit/attestation, application, terms of service, 

consent forms, and any other documentation required by 

DEO.

• The homeowner must provide all necessary 

documentation to satisfy program guidelines within 

timeframes established by DEO, including self-certification or 
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 17 –

attestation of income and Socially Disadvantaged Individual 

status, as applicable.

• Co-owners may not separately apply for program 

assistance.

5. Eligible Legal 

Ownership Structures

“Eligible Legal Ownership Structures” include only the 

following:

• Those where the home is owned exclusively by one 

or more natural persons; or

• Those where the homeowner has transferred their 

ownership right into non-incorporated, revocable living trust 

and the homeowner occupies the home as their 

primary/principal residence.

6. Qualified 

Financial Hardship

A “Qualified Financial Hardship” is a material reduction in 

income or material increase in living expenses associated 

with the Coronavirus pandemic that has created or increased 

a risk of mortgage delinquency, mortgage default, 

foreclosure, loss of utilities or home energy services, or 

displacement for a homeowner (including a hardship that 

began before January 21, 2020, but continued after that 

date).

• Reduction of Income – Documented temporary or 

permanent loss of earned income directly related to the 

coronavirus pandemic after January 21, 2020 (e.g., job loss 

or reduction in working hours).

• Increase in living expenses – Documented increase in 

out-of-pocket household expenses directly related to the 

coronavirus pandemic after January 21, 2020 (e.g., increased 

costs to care for a family member).

7. Homeowner 

Income Eligibility 

Requirements

To be eligible for assistance under the Delinquent Property 

Tax Assistance Program, homeowners must have incomes 

that are less than or equal to 150 percent of the area median 

income or 100 percent of the median income in the United 

States, whichever is greater.

8. Homeowner 

Prioritization

DEO will prioritize funding to the following populations:

• At least 70% of the financial assistance made 

available under the programs in the Plan (including the 

Delinquent Property Tax Assistance Program) will be, in the 

aggregate, used for qualified expenses for homeowners 

whose incomes are less than or equal to 100% of the area 
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 18 –

median income or the median income in the United States, 

whichever is greater.

• Amounts not made available to homeowners who 

meet the above income-targeting requirement will be 

prioritized for assistance to Socially Disadvantaged 

Individuals. 

All remaining funds not otherwise prioritized will be made 

available for other Eligible Homeowners.

9. Eligible 

Properties

“Eligible Properties” are residential properties that are located 

in Florida, which are:

• Single-family (attached or detached) properties;

• Condominium units;

• One to four-unit properties where the homeowner is 

living in one of the units as their primary residence;

• Manufactured homes permanently affixed to real 

property and taxed as real estate; or

• Mobile homes not permanently affixed to real 

property. 

“Ineligible Residential Properties” include:

• Vacant or abandoned residences;

• Second homes; and

• Investment properties.

10. Eligible Uses of 

Delinquent Property 

Tax Assistance 

Program Proceeds

Property tax obligations, which were incurred after 

September 30, 2019, are eligible uses of the Delinquent 

Property Tax Assistance Program.

11. Maximum Per 

Household Delinquent 

Property Tax 

Assistance Program 

Assistance

The maximum Delinquent Property Tax Assistance Program 

financial assistance per household will be $15,000 and the 

maximum HAF assistance per household will be $50,000 

(inclusive of Delinquent Property Tax Assistance Program 

financial assistance).

12. Assistance 

Type

The financial assistance will be structured as a non-recourse 

grant.
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 19 –

13. Payout of HAF 

Assistance

DEO will disburse Delinquent Property Tax Assistance 

Program payments directly to lenders or loan servicers (if 

covering an escrow shortfall or otherwise required to be 

escrowed) or to the applicable local tax collector.

DEO will disburse the amount quoted by the lender/servicer 

and/or the applicable local tax collector and any 

discrepancies will be required to be resolved by the 

homeowner and lender/servicer or tax collector.

14. Program 

Launch

Pending approval by Treasury, DEO is endeavoring to launch 

the program to the public statewide in 2021.

15. Required 

Application Documents

The following documents may be required:

• Application;

• Consent form;

• Terms of Service; 

• Qualifying written hardship attestation identifying and 

certifying the eligible hardship and that it occurred after 

January 21, 2020 (including a hardship that began before 

January 21, 2020, but continued after that date);

• If the eligible property is located in a census tract in 

which the median income satisfies the median income 

requirements of the Delinquent Property Tax Assistance 

Program, then a qualifying written income attestation 

certifying the homeowner’s household income;

• If the eligible property is not located in a census tract 

in which the median income satisfies the median income 

requirements of the Delinquent Property Tax Assistance 

Program, then a qualifying written income attestation 

certifying the homeowner’s household income together with 

supporting documentation (e.g., paystubs, W2s or other wage 

statements, IRS Form 1099s, tax filings, depository institution 

statements demonstrating regular income, or an attestation 

from an employer);

• Attestation that the homeowner is a “Socially 

Disadvantaged Individual” (if applicable);

• An updated escrow statement and/or property tax 

statement; 

• Social security number card or unique identifier as 

shown on a legal document, such as a federal tax return; and 
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 20 –

• Any additional documents and information that DEO 

may require.

16. Program 

Partner Requirements

Lenders/servicers may be required to agree to communicate 

using the Common Data File (CDF) format provided by 

Treasury.
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 21 –

PROPERTY TAX ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

1. Program 

Overview

The Florida Property Tax Assistance Program will assist in 

preserving homeownership and creating housing stability by 

preventing foreclosure and displacement through the 

Homeowner Assistance Fund.

The Property Tax Assistance Program will do so by providing 

financial assistance for income-qualified, eligible 

homeowners, to assist in paying all or a portion of future 

property taxes due for up to 18 months.

2. Property Tax 

Assistance Program 

Goals

To provide financial assistance to eligible Florida 

homeowners to bring keep property taxes current to prevent 

foreclosure and displacement, therefore preserving 

homeownership and providing housing stability to Floridians 

in need.

3. Targeted 

Population of 

Homeowners

Based on the data-driven assessment of homeowner needs, 

DEO will strategically target Florida homeowners whose 

income is less than or equal to 100 percent of the area 

median income or the median income in the United States, 

whichever is greater, and Socially Disadvantaged Individuals.

4. Eligible 

Homeowners

“Eligible Homeowners” for the Property Tax Assistance 

Program must satisfy the following criteria:

• The homeowner must have experienced a Qualified 

Financial Hardship after January 21, 2020 (including a 

hardship that began before January 21, 2020, but continued 

after that date), and provide an attestation, describing the 

nature of the financial hardship.

• The homeowner must currently own and occupy the 

property as their primary residence.

• The homeowner must meet the Homeowner Income 

Eligibility Requirements for the household.

• Homeowners who have previously filed for bankruptcy 

but who are no longer in bankruptcy must provide proof of 

court ordered discharge or dismissal.

• The homeowner must complete and sign qualifying 

hardship affidavit/attestation, application, terms of service, 

consent forms, and any other documentation required by 

DEO.

• The homeowner must provide all necessary 

documentation to satisfy program guidelines within 
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 22 –

timeframes established by DEO, including self-certification or 

attestation of income and Socially Disadvantaged Individual 

status, as applicable.

• Co-owners may not separately apply for program 

assistance.

5. Eligible Legal 

Ownership Structures

“Eligible Legal Ownership Structures” include only the 

following:

• Those where the home is owned exclusively by one 

or more natural persons; or

• Those where the homeowner has transferred their 

ownership right into non-incorporated, revocable living trust 

and the homeowner occupies the home as their 

primary/principal residence.

6. Qualified 

Financial Hardship

A “Qualified Financial Hardship” is a material reduction in 

income or material increase in living expenses associated 

with the Coronavirus pandemic that has created or increased 

a risk of mortgage delinquency, mortgage default, 

foreclosure, loss of utilities or home energy services, or 

displacement for a homeowner (including a hardship that 

began before January 21, 2020, but continued after that 

date).

• Reduction of Income – Documented temporary or 

permanent loss of earned income directly related to the 

coronavirus pandemic after January 21, 2020 (e.g., job loss 

or reduction in working hours).

• Increase in living expenses – Documented increase in 

out-of-pocket household expenses directly related to the 

coronavirus pandemic after January 21, 2020 (e.g., increased 

costs to care for a family member).

7. Homeowner 

Income Eligibility 

Requirements

To be eligible for assistance under the Property Tax 

Assistance Program, homeowners must have incomes that 

are less than or equal to 150 percent of the area median 

income or 100 percent of the median income in the United 

States, whichever is greater.
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 23 –

8. Homeowner 

Prioritization

DEO will prioritize funding to the following populations:

• At least 70% of the financial assistance made 

available under the programs in the Plan (including the 

Property Tax Assistance Program) will be, in the aggregate, 

used for qualified expenses for homeowners whose incomes 

are less than or equal to 100% of the area median income or 

the median income in the United States, whichever is greater.

• Amounts not made available to homeowners who 

meet the above income-targeting requirement will be 

prioritized for assistance to Socially Disadvantaged 

Individuals. 

All remaining funds not otherwise prioritized will be made 

available for other Eligible Homeowners.

9. Eligible 

Properties

“Eligible Properties” are residential properties that are located 

in Florida, which are:

• Single-family (attached or detached) properties;

• Condominium units;

• One to four-unit properties where the homeowner is 

living in one of the units as their primary residence;

• Manufactured homes permanently affixed to real 

property and taxed as real estate; or

• Mobile homes not permanently affixed to real 

property. 

“Ineligible Residential Properties” include:

• Vacant or abandoned residences;

• Second homes; and

• Investment properties.
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 24 –

10. Eligible Uses of 

Property Tax 

Assistance Program 

Proceeds

Property tax obligations, which were incurred after the date 

on which the homeowner submitted an application for 

financial assistance under the Property Tax Assistance 

Program, are eligible uses of the Property Tax Assistance 

Program.

11. Maximum Per 

Household Property 

Tax Assistance 

Program Assistance

The maximum Property Tax Assistance Program financial 

assistance per household will be $15,000 and the maximum 

HAF assistance per household will be $50,000 (inclusive of 

Property Tax Assistance Program financial assistance).

12. Assistance 

Type

The financial assistance will be structured as a non-recourse 

grant.

13. Payout of HAF 

Assistance

DEO will disburse Property Tax Assistance Program 

payments directly to lenders or loan servicers (if covering an 

escrow shortfall or otherwise required to be escrowed) or to 

the applicable local tax collector.

DEO will disburse the amount quoted by the lender/servicer 

and/or the applicable local tax collector and any 

discrepancies will be required to be resolved by the 

homeowner and lender/servicer or tax collector.

14. Program 

Launch

Pending approval by Treasury, DEO is endeavoring to launch 

the program to the public statewide in 2021.

15. Required 

Application Documents

The following documents may be required:

• Application;

• Consent form;

• Terms of Service; 

• Qualifying written hardship attestation identifying and 

certifying the eligible hardship and that it occurred after 

January 21, 2020 (including a hardship that began before 

January 21, 2020, but continued after that date);

• If the eligible property is located in a census tract in 

which the median income satisfies the median income 

requirements of the Property Tax Assistance Program, then 

a qualifying written income attestation certifying the 

homeowner’s household income;

• If the eligible property is not located in a census tract 

in which the median income satisfies the median income 

requirements of the Property Tax Assistance Program, then 

a qualifying written income attestation certifying the 
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 25 –

homeowner’s household income together with supporting 

documentation (e.g., paystubs, W2s or other wage 

statements, IRS Form 1099s, tax filings, depository institution 

statements demonstrating regular income, or an attestation 

from an employer);

• Attestation that the homeowner is a “Socially 

Disadvantaged Individual” (if applicable);

• An updated escrow statement and/or property tax 

statement; 

• Social security number card or unique identifier as 

shown on a legal document, such as a federal tax return; and 

• Any additional documents and information that DEO 

may require.

16. Program 

Partner Requirements

Lenders/servicers may be required to agree to communicate 

using the Common Data File (CDF) format provided by 

Treasury.
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 26 –

HOMEOWNER INSURANCE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

1. Program 

Overview

The Florida Homeowner Insurance Assistance Program will 

assist in preserving homeownership and creating housing 

stability by preventing foreclosure and displacement through 

the Homeowner Assistance Fund.

The Homeowner Insurance Assistance Program will do so by 

providing financial assistance for income-qualified, eligible 

homeowners, to assist in paying homeowner and flood 

insurance premiums that are part of an escrow shortfall.

For income-qualified, eligible homeowners, the Homeowner 

Insurance Assistance Program may also pay all or a portion 

of future homeowner and flood insurance premiums due for 

up to 18 months.

2. Homeowner 

Insurance Assistance 

Program Goals

To provide financial assistance to eligible Florida 

homeowners to bring escrow shortfalls current and to help 

pay a portion of future expenses of homeownership to prevent 

foreclosure and displacement, therefore preserving 

homeownership and providing housing stability to Floridians 

in need.

3. Targeted 

Population of 

Homeowners 

Based on the data-driven assessment of homeowner needs, 

DEO will strategically target Florida homeowners whose 

income is less than or equal to 100 percent of the area 

median income or the median income in the United States, 

whichever is greater, and Socially Disadvantaged Individuals.

4. Eligible 

Homeowners

“Eligible Homeowners” for the Homeowner Insurance 

Assistance Program must satisfy the following criteria:

• The homeowner must have experienced a Qualified 

Financial Hardship after January 21, 2020 (including a 

hardship that began before January 21, 2020, but continued 

after that date), and provide an attestation, describing the 

nature of the financial hardship.

• The homeowner must currently own and occupy the 

property as their primary residence.

• The homeowner must meet the Homeowner Income 

Eligibility Requirements for the household.

• Homeowners who have previously filed for bankruptcy 

but who are no longer in bankruptcy must provide proof of 

court ordered discharge or dismissal.
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 27 –

• The homeowner must complete and sign qualifying 

hardship affidavit/attestation, application, terms of service, 

consent forms, and any other documentation required by 

DEO.

• The homeowner must provide all necessary 

documentation to satisfy program guidelines within 

timeframes established by DEO, including self-certification or 

attestation of income and Socially Disadvantaged Individual 

status, as applicable.

• Co-owners may not separately apply for program 

assistance.

5. Eligible Legal 

Ownership Structures

“Eligible Legal Ownership Structures” include only the 

following:

• Those where the home is owned exclusively by one 

or more natural persons; or

• Those where the homeowner has transferred their 

ownership right into non-incorporated, revocable living trust 

and the homeowner occupies the home as their 

primary/principal residence.

6. Qualified 

Financial Hardship

A “Qualified Financial Hardship” is a material reduction in 

income or material increase in living expenses associated 

with the coronavirus pandemic that has created or increased 

a risk of mortgage delinquency, mortgage default, 

foreclosure, loss of utilities or home energy services, or 

displacement for a homeowner (including a hardship that 

began before January 21, 2020, but continued after that 

date).

• Reduction of Income – Documented temporary or 

permanent loss of earned income directly related to the 

coronavirus pandemic after January 21, 2020 (e.g., job loss 

or reduction in working hours).

• Increase in living expenses – Documented increase in 

out-of-pocket household expenses directly related to the 

coronavirus pandemic after January 21, 2020 (e.g., increased 

costs to care for a family member).

7. Homeowner 

Income Eligibility 

Requirements

To be eligible for assistance under the Homeowner Insurance 

Assistance Program, homeowners must have incomes that 

are less than or equal to 150 percent of the area median 

income or 100 percent of the median income in the United 

States, whichever is greater.
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 28 –

8. Homeowner 

Prioritization

DEO will prioritize funding to the following populations:

• At least 70% of the financial assistance made 

available under the programs in the Plan (including the 

Homeowner Insurance Assistance Program) will be, in the 

aggregate, used for qualified expenses for homeowners 

whose incomes are less than or equal to 100% of the area 

median income or the median income in the United States, 

whichever is greater.

• Amounts not made available to homeowners who 

meet the above income-targeting requirement will be 

prioritized for assistance to Socially Disadvantaged 

Individuals. 

All remaining funds not otherwise prioritized will be made 

available for other Eligible Homeowners.

9. Eligible 

Properties

“Eligible Properties” are residential properties that are located 

in Florida, which are:

• Single-family (attached or detached) properties;

• Condominium units;

• One to four-unit properties where the homeowner is 

living in one of the units as their primary residence;

• Manufactured homes permanently affixed to real 

property and taxed as real estate; or

• Mobile homes not permanently affixed to real 

property. 

Ineligible residential properties include:

• Vacant or abandoned residences;

• Second homes; and

• Investment properties.

10. Eligible Uses of 

Homeowner Insurance 

Assistance Program 

Proceeds

Homeowner, flood insurance and mortgage insurance 

premiums, which were incurred after September 30, 2019 are 

eligible uses of the Homeowner Insurance Assistance 

Program.

11. Maximum Per 

Household Homeowner 

The maximum Homeowner Insurance Assistance Program 

financial assistance per household will be $[20,000] and the 

maximum HAF assistance per household will be $50,000 
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 29 –

Insurance Assistance 

Program Assistance

(inclusive of Homeowner Insurance Assistance Program 

financial assistance).

12. Assistance 

Type

The financial assistance will be structured as a non-recourse 

grant.

13. Payout of HAF 

Assistance

DEO will disburse Homeowner Insurance Assistance 

Program payments directly to lenders or loan servicers (if 

covering an escrow shortfall or otherwise required to be 

escrowed) or to the applicable insurance company.

DEO will disburse the amount quoted by the lender/servicer 

and/or the applicable insurance company and any 

discrepancies will be required to be resolved by the 

homeowner and lender/servicer or insurer.

14. Program 

Launch

Pending approval by Treasury, DEO is endeavoring to launch 

the program to the public statewide in 2021.

15. Required 

Application Documents

The following documents may be required:

• Application;

• Consent form;

• Terms of Service; 

• Qualifying written hardship attestation identifying and 

certifying the eligible hardship and that it occurred after 

January 21, 2020 (including a hardship that began before 

January 21, 2020, but continued after that date);

• If the eligible property is located in a census tract in 

which the median income satisfies the median income 

requirements of the Homeowner Insurance Assistance 

Program, then a qualifying written income attestation 

certifying the homeowner’s household income;

• If the eligible property is not located in a census tract 

in which the median income satisfies the median income 

requirements of the Homeowner Insurance Assistance 

Program, then a qualifying written income attestation 

certifying the homeowner’s household income together with 

supporting documentation (e.g., paystubs, W2s or other wage 

statements, IRS Form 1099s, tax filings, depository institution 

statements demonstrating regular income, or an attestation 

from an employer);
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 30 –

• Attestation that the homeowner is a “Socially 

Disadvantaged Individual” (if applicable);

• An updated escrow statement and/or 

homeowner/flood insurance account statement; 

• Social security number card or unique identifier as 

shown on a legal document, such as a federal tax return; and 

• Any additional documents and information that DEO 

may require.

16. Program 

Partner Requirements

Lenders/servicers may be required to agree to communicate 

using the Common Data File (CDF) format provided by 

Treasury.

Insurance carriers may be required to provide contact 

information, and ACH account information.
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 31 –

UTILITY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

1. Program 

Overview

The Florida Utility Assistance Program will assist in 

preserving homeownership and creating housing stability by 

preventing foreclosure and displacement through the 

Homeowner Assistance Fund.

The Utility Assistance Program will do so by providing 

financial assistance for income-qualified, eligible 

homeowners to assist in making delinquent utility payments, 

including electric, gas, home heating oil, water, and sewer.

For income qualified, eligible homeowners, the Utility 

Assistance Program may also pay all or a portion of future 

utility payments due for up to 18 months.

2. Utility 

Assistance Program 

Goals

To provide financial assistance to eligible Florida 

homeowners to bring utility accounts current and to help pay 

a portion of future expenses of homeownership to prevent 

foreclosure and displacement, therefore preserving 

homeownership and providing housing stability to Floridians 

in need.

3. Targeted 

Population of 

Homeowners 

Based on the data-driven assessment of homeowner needs, 

DEO will strategically target Florida homeowners whose 

income is less than or equal to 100 percent of the area 

median income or the median income in the United States, 

whichever is greater, and Socially Disadvantaged Individuals.

4. Eligible 

Homeowners

“Eligible Homeowners” for the Utility Assistance Program 

must satisfy the following criteria:

• The homeowner must have experienced a Qualified 

Financial Hardship after January 21, 2020 (including a 

hardship that began before January 21, 2020, but continued 

after that date), and provide an attestation, describing the 

nature of the financial hardship.

• The homeowner must currently own and occupy the 

property as their primary residence.

• The homeowner must meet the Homeowner Income 

Eligibility Requirements for the household.

• Homeowners who have previously filed for bankruptcy 

but who are no longer in bankruptcy must provide proof of 

court ordered discharge or dismissal.

• The homeowner must complete and sign qualifying 

hardship affidavit/attestation, application, terms of service, 
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 32 –

consent forms, and any other documentation required by 

DEO.

• The homeowner must provide all necessary 

documentation to satisfy program guidelines within 

timeframes established by DEO, including self-certification or 

attestation of income and Socially Disadvantaged Individual 

status, as applicable.

• Co-owners may not separately apply for program 

assistance.

5. Eligible Legal 

Ownership Structures

“Eligible Legal Ownership Structures” include only the 

following:

• Those where the home is owned exclusively by one 

or more natural persons; or 

• Those where the homeowner has transferred their 

ownership right into non-incorporated, revocable living trust 

and the homeowner occupies the home as their 

primary/principal residence.

6. Qualified 

Financial Hardship

A “Qualified Financial Hardship” is a material reduction in 

income or material increase in living expenses associated 

with the coronavirus pandemic that has created or increased 

a risk of mortgage delinquency, mortgage default, 

foreclosure, loss of utilities or home energy services, or 

displacement for a homeowner (including a hardship that 

began before January 21, 2020, but continued after that 

date).

• Reduction of Income – Documented temporary or 

permanent loss of earned income directly related to the 

coronavirus pandemic after January 21, 2020 (e.g., job loss 

or reduction in working hours).

• Increase in living expenses – Documented increase in 

out-of-pocket household expenses directly related to the 

coronavirus pandemic after January 21, 2020 (e.g., increased 

costs to care for a family member).

7. Homeowner 

Income Eligibility 

Requirements

To be eligible for assistance under the Utility Assistance 

Program, homeowners must have incomes that are less than 

or equal to 150 percent of the area median income or 100 

percent of the median income in the United States, whichever 

is greater.
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 33 –

8. Homeowner 

Prioritization

DEO will prioritize funding to the following populations:

• At least 70% of the financial assistance made 

available under the programs in the Plan (including the Utility 

Assistance Program) will be, in the aggregate, used for 

qualified expenses for homeowners whose incomes are less 

than or equal to 100 percent of the area median income or 

the median income in the United States, whichever is greater.

• Amounts not made available to homeowners who 

meet the above income-targeting requirement will be 

prioritized for assistance to Socially Disadvantaged 

Individuals. 

All remaining funds not otherwise prioritized will be made 

available for other Eligible Homeowners.

9. Eligible 

Properties

“Eligible Properties” are residential properties that are located 

in Florida, which are:

• Single-family (attached or detached) properties;

• Condominium units;

• One to four-unit properties where the homeowner is 

living in one of the units as their primary residence;

• Manufactured homes permanently affixed to real 

property and taxed as real estate; or

• Mobile homes not permanently affixed to real 

property. 

Ineligible residential properties include:

• Vacant or abandoned residences;

• Second homes; and

• Investment properties.

10. Eligible Uses of 

Utility Assistance 

Program Proceeds

Utility payments, including electric, gas, home heating oil, 

water, and sewer, which were incurred after September 30, 

2019, are eligible uses of the Utility Assistance Program.

11. Maximum Per 

Household Utility 

The maximum Utility Assistance Program financial assistance 

per household will be $15,000 and the maximum HAF 
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 34 –

Assistance Program 

Assistance

assistance per household will be $50,000 (inclusive of Utility 

Assistance Program financial assistance).

12. Assistance 

Type

The financial assistance will be structured as a non-recourse 

grant.

13. Payout of HAF 

Assistance

DEO will disburse Utility Assistance Program payments 

directly to the utility service providers, including electric, gas, 

home heating oil, water, and sewer service providers.

DEO will disburse the amount quoted by the utility service 

provider and any discrepancies will be required to be resolved 

by the homeowner and the utility service provider.

14. Program 

Launch

Pending approval by Treasury, DEO is endeavoring to launch 

the program to the public statewide in 2021.

15. Required 

Application Documents

The following documents may be required:

• Application;

• Consent form;

• Terms of Service; 

• Qualifying written hardship attestation identifying and 

certifying the eligible hardship and that it occurred after 

January 21, 2020 (including a hardship that began before 

January 21, 2020, but continued after that date);

• If the eligible property is located in a census tract in 

which the median income satisfies the median income 

requirements of the Utility Assistance Program, then a 

qualifying written income attestation certifying the 

homeowner’s household income;

• If the eligible property is not located in a census tract 

in which the median income satisfies the median income 

requirements of the Utility Assistance Program, then a 

qualifying written income attestation certifying the 

homeowner’s household income together with supporting 

documentation (e.g., paystubs, W2s or other wage 

statements, IRS Form 1099s, tax filings, depository institution 

statements demonstrating regular income, or an attestation 

from an employer);

• Attestation that the homeowner is a “Socially 

Disadvantaged Individual” (if applicable);
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 35 –

• An updated escrow statement and/or utility account 

statement; 

• Social security number card or unique identifier as 

shown on a legal document, such as a federal tax return; and 

• Any additional documents and information that DEO 

may require.

16. Program 

Partner Requirements

Utility service providers may be required to provide a written 

delinquency statement, contact information, and ACH 

account information.
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 36 –

INTERNET SERVICE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

1. Program 

Overview

The Florida Internet Service Assistance Program will assist in 

preserving homeownership and creating housing stability by 

preventing foreclosure and displacement through the 

Homeowner Assistance Fund.

The Internet Service Assistance Program will do so by 

providing financial assistance for income-qualified, eligible 

homeowners to assist in making delinquent internet service 

payments.

For income qualified, eligible homeowners, the Internet 

Service Assistance Program may also pay all or a portion of 

future internet service payments due for up to 18 months.

2. Internet 

Service Assistance 

Program Goals

To provide financial assistance to eligible Florida 

homeowners to bring utility accounts current and to help pay 

a portion of future expenses of homeownership to prevent 

foreclosure and displacement, therefore preserving 

homeownership and providing housing stability to Floridians 

in need.

3. Targeted 

Population of 

Homeowners 

Based on the data-driven assessment of homeowner needs, 

DEO will strategically target Florida homeowners whose 

income is less than or equal to 100 percent of the area 

median income or the median income in the United States, 

whichever is greater, and Socially Disadvantaged Individuals.

4. Eligible 

Homeowners

“Eligible Homeowners” for the Internet Service Assistance 

Program must satisfy the following criteria:

• The homeowner must have experienced a Qualified 

Financial Hardship after January 21, 2020 (including a 

hardship that began before January 21, 2020, but continued 

after that date), and provide an attestation, describing the 

nature of the financial hardship.

• The homeowner must currently own and occupy the 

property as their primary residence.

• The homeowner must meet the Homeowner Income 

Eligibility Requirements for the household.

• Homeowners who have previously filed for bankruptcy 

but who are no longer in bankruptcy must provide proof of 

court ordered discharge or dismissal.

• The homeowner must complete and sign qualifying 

hardship affidavit/attestation, application, terms of service, 
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 37 –

consent forms, and any other documentation required by 

DEO.

• The homeowner must provide all necessary 

documentation to satisfy program guidelines within 

timeframes established by DEO, including self-certification or 

attestation of income and Socially Disadvantaged Individual 

status, as applicable.

• Co-owners may not separately apply for program 

assistance.

5. Eligible Legal 

Ownership Structures

“Eligible Legal Ownership Structures” include only the 

following:

• Those where the home is owned exclusively by one 

or more natural persons; or

• Those where the homeowner has transferred their 

ownership right into non-incorporated, revocable living trust 

and the homeowner occupies the home as their 

primary/principal residence.

6. Qualified 

Financial Hardship

A “Qualified Financial Hardship” is a material reduction in 

income or material increase in living expenses associated 

with the coronavirus pandemic that has created or increased 

a risk of mortgage delinquency, mortgage default, 

foreclosure, loss of utilities or home energy services, or 

displacement for a homeowner (including a hardship that 

began before January 21, 2020, but continued after that 

date).

• Reduction of Income – Documented temporary or 

permanent loss of earned income directly related to the 

coronavirus pandemic after January 21, 2020 (e.g., job loss 

or reduction in working hours).

• Increase in living expenses – Documented increase in 

out-of-pocket household expenses directly related to the 

coronavirus pandemic after January 21, 2020 (e.g., increased 

costs to care for a family member).

7. Homeowner 

Income Eligibility 

Requirements

To be eligible for assistance under the Internet Service 

Assistance Program, homeowners must have incomes that 

are less than or equal to 150 percent of the area median 

income or 100 percent of the median income in the United 

States, whichever is greater.
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 38 –

8. Homeowner 

Prioritization

DEO will prioritize funding to the following populations:

• At least 70% of the financial assistance made 

available under the programs in the Plan (including the 

Internet Service Assistance Program) will be, in the 

aggregate, used for qualified expenses for homeowners 

whose incomes are less than or equal to 100 percent of the 

area median income or the median income in the United 

States, whichever is greater.

• Amounts not made available to homeowners who 

meet the above income-targeting requirement will be 

prioritized for assistance to Socially Disadvantaged 

Individuals. 

All remaining funds not otherwise prioritized will be made 

available for other Eligible Homeowners.

9. Eligible 

Properties

“Eligible Properties” are residential properties that are located 

in Florida, which are:

• Single-family (attached or detached) properties;

• Condominium units;

• One to four-unit properties where the homeowner is 

living in one of the units as their primary residence;

• Manufactured homes permanently affixed to real 

property and taxed as real estate; or

• Mobile homes not permanently affixed to real 

property. 

Ineligible residential properties include:

• Vacant or abandoned residences;

• Second homes; and

• Investment properties.

10. Eligible Uses of 

Internet Service 

Assistance Program 

Proceeds

Internet service payments, which were incurred after 

September 30, 2019 are eligible uses of the Internet Service 

Assistance Program.

11. Maximum Per 

Household Internet 

The maximum Internet Service Assistance Program financial 

assistance per household will be $[3,500] and the maximum 
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 39 –

Service Assistance 

Program Assistance

HAF assistance per household will be $50,000 (inclusive of 

Internet Service Assistance Program financial assistance).

12. Assistance 

Type

The financial assistance will be structured as a non-recourse 

grant.

13. Payout of HAF 

Assistance

DEO will disburse Internet Service Assistance Program 

payments directly to the internet service providers, including 

electric, gas and water, and internet service providers.

DEO will disburse the amount quoted by the internet service 

provider and any discrepancies will be required to be resolved 

by the homeowner and the internet service provider.

14. Program 

Launch

Pending approval by Treasury, DEO is endeavoring to launch 

the program to the public statewide in 2021.

15. Required 

Application Documents

The following documents may be required:

• Application;

• Consent form;

• Terms of Service; 

• Qualifying written hardship attestation identifying and 

certifying the eligible hardship and that it occurred after 

January 21, 2020 (including a hardship that began before 

January 21, 2020, but continued after that date);

• If the eligible property is located in a census tract in 

which the median income satisfies the median income 

requirements of the Internet Service Assistance Program, 

then a qualifying written income attestation certifying the 

homeowner’s household income;

• If the eligible property is not located in a census tract 

in which the median income satisfies the median income 

requirements of the Internet Service Assistance Program, 

then a qualifying written income attestation certifying the 

homeowner’s household income together with supporting 

documentation (e.g., paystubs, W2s or other wage 

statements, IRS Form 1099s, tax filings, depository institution 

statements demonstrating regular income, or an attestation 

from an employer);

• Attestation that the homeowner is a “Socially 

Disadvantaged Individual” (if applicable);
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 40 –

• An updated escrow statement and/or utility account 

statement; 

• Social security number card or unique identifier as 

shown on a legal document, such as a federal tax return; and 

• Any additional documents and information that DEO 

may require.

16. Program 

Partner Requirements

Internet service providers may be required to provide a written 

delinquency statement, contact information, and ACH 

account information.
Florida HAF Term Sheets

– 41 –

HOUSING COUNSELING PROGRAM

1. Program 

Overview

The Florida Housing Counseling Program will assist in 

preserving homeownership and creating housing stability by 

preventing foreclosure and displacement through the 

Homeowner Assistance Fund.

The Housing Counseling Program will do so by providing 

housing counseling through housing counseling agencies 

certified by the US Department of Housing and Urban 

Development for income-qualified, eligible homeowners.

2. Housing 

Counseling Program

Goals

To provide housing counseling services to eligible Florida 

homeowners to help to preserve homeownership and provide

housing stability to Floridians in need.

3. Targeted 

Population of 

Homeowners 

Based on the data-driven assessment of homeowner needs, 

DEO will strategically target Florida homeowners whose 

income is less than or equal to 100 percent of the area 

median income or the median income in the United States, 

whichever is greater, and Socially Disadvantaged Individuals.

4. Homeowner 

Income Eligibility 

Requirements

To be eligible for assistance under the Housing Counseling 

Program, homeowners must have incomes that are less than 

or equal to 150 percent of the area median income or 100 

percent of the median income in the United States, whichever 

is greater.

5. Payout of HAF 

Assistance

DEO will disburse Housing Counseling Program payments to 

HUD-certified housing counseling agencies in consideration 

for services rendered under the Housing Counseling 

Program.

6. Program 

Launch

Pending approval by Treasury, DEO is endeavoring to launch 

the program to the public statewide in 2021.