What Is the CalAssist Mortgage Fund?
The CalAssist Mortgage Fund is a disaster relief program run by the California Housing Finance Agency. It provides grant money to homeowners whose primary home was destroyed or badly damaged in a qualified disaster. This program can cover up to 12 months of mortgage payments, with a maximum benefit of up to $100,000 for those who qualify. The money goes directly to your mortgage servicer. You do not receive the funds in your bank account.
CalAssist is a grant, not a loan. You do not have to repay the money. The goal of the program is simple. It gives homeowners time to rebuild, handle insurance claims, and stabilize their finances without the added stress of monthly mortgage payments.
At LBC Mortgage, we stay updated on changes to state relief programs. We make sure you receive accurate and current information before you apply.
Who Qualifies for CalAssist?
CalAssist is for homeowners whose primary residence became unlivable due to a qualified California disaster between January 1, 2023, and January 8, 2025.
To qualify, the property must be your main home. Vacation homes and investment properties do not qualify. You must own only one residential property. Eligible property types include single-family homes, condos, and permanently attached manufactured homes. Properties with up to four units may qualify if you live in one of the units as your main home.
You must have an active mortgage or reverse mortgage on the property. The program also reviews your total household income. Each county in California has its own income limit. Your combined household income must fall within the allowed range for your county.
You may still qualify if you are current on your mortgage, in forbearance, or behind on payments because of the disaster. Receiving FEMA aid or insurance money does not automatically disqualify you.
At LBC Mortgage, we review your situation before you apply. We help you understand whether CalAssist is the right option for you.
How Much Assistance Can You Receive?
If approved, CalAssist may cover up to 12 months of your mortgage payments. The total benefit can reach up to $100,000, depending on your loan and eligibility.
The funds are sent directly to your mortgage servicer. The payments are applied to your loan based on program rules. This support can help prevent missed payments and reduce the risk of foreclosure. If you received CalAssist funds under an earlier version of the program, you may qualify for additional assistance under the expanded limits. You must still meet current guidelines.
At LBC Mortgage, we help you understand how the funds will be applied to your loan. Because we work with many lenders, we understand how different servicers process relief payments.
Documents You Need Before You Apply
Getting your documents ready in advance will make the process smoother. You will need a recent mortgage statement. This shows your loan number, servicer name, and monthly payment amount. You must provide proof of identity, such as a driver’s license or passport. You will also need a recent utility bill for the damaged property to confirm that it was your primary residence.
The program requires proof of income for all borrowers on the loan. This may include recent pay stubs, W-2 forms, tax returns, or proof of unemployment benefits. You may also need to provide recent bank statements. Make sure your documents are clear and easy to read. Incomplete or unclear documents can delay your application.
At LBC Mortgage, we help you organize your paperwork before you submit it. Clear preparation can save time and reduce stress.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for CalAssist
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Start by visiting the official CalAssist website. Complete the online questionnaire to see if you may qualify. Answer each question carefully. The system will let you know if you can move forward with the full application. If you are unsure how to answer certain questions, speak with our team first. At LBC Mortgage, we help you avoid common mistakes.
Step 2: Create an Online Account
If you appear eligible, you will create an online account. Use a valid email address and choose a secure password. You can save your progress and return later. Take your time and review each section before moving on. Using a computer instead of a phone can make uploading documents easier.
Step 3: Upload Required Documents
Upload your mortgage statement, ID, income documents, and utility bill. Make sure all pages are clear and complete. If the program requests more information, respond quickly. Check your email often after submitting your application. Keep copies of everything you submit for your records.
Step 4: Submit and Wait for Review
After reviewing your application, submit it through the online portal. You will receive a confirmation message. Processing times can vary. The program may contact you if it needs more documents or clarification. During this time, stay in contact with your mortgage servicer. Do not assume that payments are paused unless you receive written confirmation.
At LBC Mortgage, we help you communicate with your servicer while your application is under review.
Step 5: Approval and Payment
If your application is approved, CalAssist will send funds directly to your mortgage servicer. You will receive notice once the payment is made. Review your next mortgage statement to confirm that the funds were applied correctly.
If you notice any issues, address them right away. Our team at LBC Mortgage can help you review your statement and understand your loan status.
Why Work With LBC Mortgage During Mortgage Relief?
Relief programs can feel confusing. Rules change. Income limits vary by county. Document requests can seem unclear. At LBC Mortgage, we simplify the process. We are a mortgage broker, not a lender. That means we work with many lending partners and understand different loan programs.
We look at your full financial picture. We help you decide whether CalAssist is the best solution or whether other options, such as refinancing or loan modification, may help once you recover. Our team focuses on clear communication and fast responses. We guide you step by step so you can move forward with confidence.
