Who can apply for a loan with HFLA?
Applicants must be Jewish and reside in Western Massachusetts (Hampden, Hampshire,
Berkshire, or Franklin counties). Jewish residents of Northern Connecticut or Southern Vermont
may be eligible in certain cases.
Do I need a cosigner?
Yes. Loans up to $4,500 require one co-signer, and loans of $4500 – $9,000 require two. A spouse may not cosign a loan.
What documents must be submitted?
Applicants and cosigner(s) fill out either an application or co-signer information form, provide a
credit report, and submit the first two pages of their current Federal tax return. The co-signer(s)
information may be sent separately to ensure privacy and confidentiality. The Loan Application
and Co-signer Information Forms are available for download on the right.
Do I need to be interviewed?
Yes, we will schedule your interview with two HFLA board members.
When must the loan be paid back?
Monthly payments can span a period of up to 36 months beginning one month after the disbursement date.
Where do I get the application form?
You can download the Application Form on the right, or call 413-372-9756 and the Form will be mailed to you.
How do I get a credit report?
You can request a free credit report by contacting one of the following companies:
- Equifax: 1-800-685-1111; www.equifax.com
- Experian: 1-888-397-3742; www.experian.com
- TransUnion: 1-800-888-4213; www.transunion.com
Why do I need to submit a credit report?
The credit report is a standard requirement for loan applications. Applicants who have had issues with their credit reports have received HFLA loans.
Will my or my co-signer(s) credit score affect my loan application?
No. Your credit score is separate from your credit report. We only require your Credit Report as part of your application process.
How to apply for a loan?
- Contact the HFLA at 413-372-9756 to discuss your loan request.
- You and your co-signers will each send the application documents to the HFLA.
- For more information, see the Application Process Details document on the right.
Please do not hesitate to call 413-372-9756 if you have any further questions.
