HAND Inc. | Local Housing Resources During COVID-19 | Coronavirus Housing Resources for Indiana Renters and Homeowners

The COVID-19 crisis has changed the world as we know it, leaving many Hoosiers without jobs — and making it increasingly difficult for individuals and families to pay their housing costs. Whether you are a renter or a homeowner, there are resources available to help you avoid eviction or foreclosure. But your first step should always be to communicate: Reach out to your landlord or your lender as soon as possible to let them know you have been affected by COVID-19. If you still need financial assistance to stay in your home, contact your township trustee.

Homeless?

Call Family Promise of Hamilton County at 317-774-5196.
Contact Aspire Indiana‘s Housing & Unemployment Hotline at 877-531-3236.
Dial 2-1-1 to connect with an Indiana 2-1-1 navigator who can help you find the resources you need 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Renters

Indiana has paused eviction proceedings through Aug. 14, 2020. State courts will not process eviction filings during the current emergency.
The federal government also has halted evictions through July 25 at rental properties that receive federal funding, including Housing Choice Vouchers. Those properties also cannot charge late fees.
All tenants still are responsible for paying their rent, though, and those who fail to do so may be evicted once the emergency ends. If you are having trouble keeping current, talk to your landlord about setting up a payment plan.
The state has allocated $25 million from Indiana’s CARES Act funding to create the Indiana COVID-19 Rental Assistance Program to help renters whose income has been adversely affected by COVID-19. The program will provide up to $2,000 in assistance per household to help cover monthly rent payments or late fees. The application is available at www.indianahousingnow.org.

Indiana Coronavirus Eviction & Foreclosure Resource Guide

Indiana Legal Services’ Information for Tenants in Rental Housing

Homeowners

The state also has paused foreclosure proceedings during the emergency, and the U.S. government has done the same for federally-backed mortgages.
Some banks also may let borrowers affected by COVID-19 delay payments. Contact your lender before your mortgage payment is due to discuss your options.
Indiana also reopened its Hardest Hit Fund, which may provide up to six months (or $30,000) in mortgage payment/reinstatement assistance for approved homeowners experiencing an involuntary employment-related financial hardship. Click here for HHF program information.

Indiana Coronavirus Eviction & Foreclosure Resource Guide

Forbearance Agreements, Repayment Plans & Loan Modifications

Utilities

In Indiana, utilities cannot be disconnected for nonpayment through at least Aug. 14, 2020. This includes electric, gas, water, sewer, phone and internet service.
If you need help paying your heat and electric bills, consider applying for the state’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program before July 31. Good Samaritan Network administers the program in Hamilton County, and Area IV Agency handles it in Boone County. Click here for a list of program administrators in all 92 counties.

Other resources

Remember, even if you are able to negotiate payment plans for your rent, mortgage, utilities and other household bills, eventually you must pay the full amount owed. Here are some additional resources that could help you make the most of your budget.