Relieving the Burden with the 2026 Low-Income Homeowner Assistance Program

At the Greensboro Housing Coalition (GHC), our commitment to housing stability extends beyond renters to the dedicated homeowners who form the backbone of our neighborhoods. As property values and taxes fluctuate, many long-term residents on fixed or low incomes find it increasingly difficult to keep up with the rising costs of staying in their homes.

We are pleased to share that the City of Greensboro has reopened applications for the Low-Income Homeowner Assistance (LIHA) Program for 2026. Now in its fourth year, this vital initiative provides a direct financial bridge for homeowners, helping them offset recent property tax increases and ensuring that rising costs don’t lead to displacement.

✅ Direct Financial Relief | ✅ Preserving Homeownership | ✅ First-Come, First-Served

By providing targeted tax relief, the LIHA program helps preserve the fabric of our community and protects the generational wealth built through homeownership.

Quick Answer: What is the Low-Income Homeowner Assistance Program?

The Low-Income Homeowner Assistance (LIHA) Program provides eligible Greensboro residents with a check to cover the difference between their 2021 and 2025 City property taxes. To qualify, homeowners must live within city limits and have a combined household income of $58,600 or less.

Key Program Details:

• Benefit: A check for the tax increase difference (minimum $50).
• Income Limit: Combined household income must be $58,600 or less.
• Deadline: Applications must be submitted by October 31, 2026.
• Priority: Funds are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

The Problem: Rising Property Taxes and the Risk of Displacement

For many Greensboro families, the dream of homeownership is being pressured by the reality of rising property assessments. When taxes increase significantly over a short period, it can create a “tax shock” that forces vulnerable residents to make impossible choices between paying for housing, medicine, or food.

Property Tax Pressures – Residents whose 2025 City home property tax was higher than their 2021 tax are eligible for relief. This program specifically targets that four-year gap to mitigate the impact of rising valuations. Source: City of Greensboro

📈 The Financial Gap

In Greensboro, home values have seen a steady rise, which is positive for equity but challenging for those on limited budgets. A tax increase of even a few hundred dollars can be the tipping point for a household making under $60,000.

🏘️ Protecting Neighborhood Stability

When long-term homeowners are forced to sell due to tax burdens, neighborhoods lose their history and stability. Maintaining low-income homeownership is a critical component of preventing gentrification and ensuring diverse, vibrant communities.

The Solution: Direct Relief Through LIHA

The Greensboro Housing Coalition advocates for programs like LIHA because they offer a simple, effective solution to a complex problem. By refunding the difference in tax increases, the City is effectively “freezing” the tax burden for those who can least afford the hike.

Traditional Tax Burden	LIHA Program Impact
Increasing yearly costs	Refund check for the tax difference
Risk of tax foreclosure	Increased financial liquidity for owners
Displacement of seniors	Ability to age in place safely

First-Come, First-Served Funding

Because the program operates on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted, GHC encourages all eligible residents to apply immediately. This ensures that the relief reaches those who are proactive in seeking stability.

How It Works: Step-by-Step Application Guide

The application process is designed to be accessible, with support for multiple languages including Spanish, Arabic, and Khmer.

Step 1: Verify Eligibility Ensure you meet the three primary criteria:

1. Your home is within Greensboro city limits.
2. Your 2025 City property tax was higher than your 2021 City property tax.
3. Your combined household income is $58,600 or less.

Step 2: Gather Required Documentation You will need to provide proof of income and residency. A full list of required documents is available on the City’s official program page.

Step 3: Submit Your Application Applications can be submitted via the online system. You must create an account, select “Low-Income Homeowner Assistance Program,” and follow the prompts. Hard copy applications are also accepted for those who prefer paper submissions.

Results and Use Cases

The LIHA program has provided a lifeline for hundreds of Greensboro families over the past three years, and 2026 aims to expand that reach.

📊 The Senior Homeowner Scenario

Scenario: A senior citizen living on a fixed Social Security income has owned their home in Greensboro since 1990. Their property tax increased by $450 between 2021 and 2025. Outcome: By applying for LIHA, the resident receives a check for the $450 difference, allowing them to remain in their home without sacrificing their medical budget.

💼 Working Family Support

Scenario: A family of four with a combined income of $52,000 finds that their tax bill has risen along with their neighborhood’s popularity. LIHA Impact: The program offsets the tax hike, providing the family with extra breathing room to manage other rising costs like groceries and utilities.

Conclusion: Securing Greensboro’s Future

The Low-Income Homeowner Assistance Program is a vital tool in our city’s effort to keep residents in their homes and preserve the character of our neighborhoods. At the Greensboro Housing Coalition, we are proud to support initiatives that provide tangible, direct relief to our constituents.

Don’t wait to secure your relief. If you believe you are eligible, we urge you to apply today before the October 31st deadline.

Support GHC’s Mission. Our advocacy for homeowners and renters alike is made possible by your support. Make a donation today to help us continue fighting for safe, affordable, and stable housing for all Greensboro residents.

Frequently Asked Questions