SF Homeowner Emergency Loan Program (HELP)

SF Mayor's Office of Housing and Community Development (MOHCD)

Available Home Repair

About This Program

SF Homeowner Emergency Loan Program (HELP) is available to homeowners in San Francisco, CA.

MOHCD's HELP program provides up to $50,000 as a no-interest 30-year deferred loan for San Francisco homeowners facing emergency financial hardship. Eligible uses include past-due mortgage payments, HOA fees, and special assessments. Instead of interest, borrowers pay an equitable share of any appreciation when the loan is repaid. Income must be at or below 120% of AMI.

No interest, but equitable share of appreciation paid at repayment; 30-year deferred

Official source site checked live on 2026-06-22.

Data last verified 2026-04-03. How we verify our data.

In San Francisco, CA, you can combine this program with other local help to cut your cost:

Key Details

  • Up to $50,000 no-interest emergency loan for SF homeowners
  • Covers past-due mortgage, HOA fees, special assessments
  • Income limit: 120% AMI (~$130,900 for 1 person in 2025)
  • 30-year deferred loan with appreciation share at repayment
  • Contact MOHCD at (628) 652-7550

How to Apply

A grant-savvy contractor in San Francisco, CA can handle the paperwork, inspections, and timelines so your funding releases on schedule. Getting matched is free.

You will likely need a contractor to apply

Projects like this almost always need a licensed contractor, and many grants ask for a written estimate as part of your application. Lining up a contractor in San Francisco early keeps your application moving.

Get matched with a contractor

This program is usually a forgivable loan: you owe nothing if you stay in the home for the set period, but it may place a lien on the property until then.

Each program sets its own contractor rules. Check the official program page for exact requirements.

Your application paperwork

Documents you will likely need

  • Proof you own and live in the home (deed, recent mortgage statement, or property tax bill).
  • A government-issued photo ID for every owner on title.
  • A written estimate from a licensed contractor for the work (many programs require this to apply).
  • Photos of the problem area or the work to be done.
  • The program's own application form, completed (use the official link or phone number on this page).

Requirements vary by program and locality. Confirm the exact rules on the official program page. We can help you prepare your paperwork, but you submit it yourself.

Deadline: Rolling

Questions about this program?

Ask us. It is free, and a real person answers within a business day.

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Frequently asked questions

How much can SF Homeowner Emergency Loan Program (HELP) provide in San Francisco, CA?

Up to $50,000 deferred no-interest loan.

Who qualifies for SF Homeowner Emergency Loan Program (HELP) in San Francisco?

SF Homeowner Emergency Loan Program (HELP) is open to homeowners in San Francisco, CA.

How do I apply for SF Homeowner Emergency Loan Program (HELP) in San Francisco, CA?

Apply directly with SF Mayor's Office of Housing and Community Development (MOHCD) using the official program link on this page or call 628-652-7550. There is no middleman and no fee.

Need a Contractor for This Grant?

Grant-approved contractors understand the documentation, inspections, and timelines, so your funding releases on schedule.

Find More Programs in San Francisco, CA

This is just one of many grants, rebates, and free programs available. Stack them together to maximize your savings.

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