NJ A3481

Establishes eligibility criteria for New Jersey's Homelessness Prevention Program, requiring applicants to be state residents who are homeless or facing imminent homelessness due to eviction, mortgage foreclosure, or inability to pay rent/mortgage.

Imposes a new $75 fee for filing eviction actions against landlords who lease more than three dwelling units (or four if owner-occupied), with proceeds directed to the Office of Eviction Prevention for homelessness prevention services.

Prohibits landlords from shifting the $75 eviction filing fee to tenants or classifying it as "additional rent," regardless of eviction case outcome.

Caps program loan assistance at 600 percent of the monthly federal payment standard for household size, with mortgage assistance provided as recorded loans for homeowners facing foreclosure.

Requires priority consideration for vulnerable populations when program funds are limited, including disabled individuals, seniors 62 and older, domestic violence victims, and households with children facing separation due to homelessness.