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Local and State Housing, Tax and Water Discount Programs and Clinics
Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service (MVLS) emphasizes the importance of investing in our community partners and building strong relationships through outreach and advocacy. Spring is nearly here, which means tax season has arrived making it all the more important to connect residents with critical resources. Several programs have been recently rolled out from the state of Maryland and the City of Baltimore including the Water4All Discount Program, Maryland Homeowner Assistance Fund, and the Statewide Water Delinquency Program. In addition, to state and city programs there are local organizations like MVLS and Securing Older Adult Resources (SOAR). Here’s the information you need to know to help us spread the word.
Water 4 All Program – Baltimore City
What is it?
This new water assistance program provides a monthly discount for water and sewer costs based on a percentage of residents’ income for Baltimore City Residents. Homeowners and Renters are available. For the first time, tenants who do not directly pay their water bills are eligible to apply for water payment assistance.
Where do I find more information?
Find more information here – Water4All | City of Baltimore (baltimorecity.gov)
How do I apply?
Apply direct on Water4All | City of Baltimore (baltimorecity.gov) or call (410)-369-5555
The Emergency Mortgage & Housing Assistance Program (EMHAP) – Baltimore City
What is it?
EMHAP provides further assistance to Baltimore City homeowners whose homes are at risk of foreclosure due to economic hardship related to the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Where do I find more information?
Find more information here – Emergency Mortgage & Housing Assistance Program | Baltimore City Department of Housing & Community Development
How do I apply?
You can apply for EMHAP online at Neighborly Software. Click on the Register tab and register for a free account with your name and email. After registering, click Sign In to enter your email and password. Then, under Start a New Application, click Emergency Mortgage & Housing Assistance Program.
If you need assistance, call the LIGHT Intake & Assessment Unit at 410-396-3023. If you do not wish to complete the application online, you can download and print the application, or you can pick up a paper application from us at 417 E. Fayette St., Suite 1125.
Maryland Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF)
What is it?
The Maryland HAF helps homeowners who need assistance with paying their mortgage, property taxes, and ground rent. Additionally, the homeowner assistance fund provides help to in need of home repairs or weatherization to remain in their homes.
Where do I find more information?
Find more information here – Maryland Homeowner Assistance Fund
How do I apply?
Apply directly at Maryland HAF or call 833-676-0119, Mon-Fri 8 am to 7pm and Sat 9am to 4pm.
Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP)
What is it?
The LIHWAP is available statewide and provides Maryland households with financial relief toward water and/or wastewater bills. Eligible households may receive up to $2,000. LIHWAP funding is limited, and applications will be accepted on a first come, first served basis.
Where do I find more information?
You can find more information about the program here – Low Income Household Water Assistance Program – Maryland Department of Human Services
How do I apply?
You can apply for LIHWAP assistance online using the consumer portal at mymdthink.maryland. gov. If you are unable to apply online, you may request an application be mailed to you through the service hotline at 1-800-332-6347 or by calling your local Department of Social Services or Office of Home Energy Programs office. A printable paper application can be found at their website.
SOAR With Maryland’s Consumer Rights Coalition
Securing Older Adult Resources (SOAR) supports the financial wellbeing of older adults. They can help you receive a renters’ tax credit which could result in a credit of $1,000 to income-eligible renters. If your name is on the deed, you may be eligible for a homeowners’ tax credit which will cap your property tax. To learn more information and apply please visit Take the Credit — Maryland Consumer Rights Coalition (marylandconsumers.org) or call their tax credit hotline directly at (443)-961-6220.