Your home is more than a monthly payment. Falling behind can be frightening, especially when letters arrive with unfamiliar terms and deadlines.
There may be ways to seek help. The right option depends on your loan, location, hardship, and how far behind you are.
Start with your mortgage servicer
Ask about loss-mitigation options, repayment plans, forbearance, and loan modification. Ask what documentation is required, whether fees or interest continue, and how missed payments are handled later.
Who might benefit from exploring assistance?
- Homeowners who have missed a payment or expect to miss one
- People facing a temporary or long-term income change
- Anyone receiving a foreclosure warning or other urgent mortgage notice
- Homeowners who want an independent explanation of their options
Reputable places to begin
HUD Housing Counseling
Find approved housing counseling agencies that can help explain mortgage and foreclosure-prevention options.
Find a housing counselor →
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau
Learn about mortgage hardship, foreclosure, and working with your servicer.
View homeowner resources →Watch for warning signs
Be cautious of anyone guaranteeing foreclosure prevention, demanding advance fees for certain mortgage-relief services, or instructing you to stop communicating with your lender. Verify credentials before sharing sensitive information.
One step at a time
You don’t have to figure everything out at once. Start by finding out what options are available and which deadlines matter.
Review the Five Options