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Foreclosure Prevention Resources

Having Trouble Making Your Mortgage Payments?

If you are worried about falling behind on your mortgage or have already missed a payment, take action as soon as possible. Early intervention can significantly increase the options available to help you avoid foreclosure.

Free resources are available to help you understand your options, communicate with your mortgage servicer, and develop a plan based on your individual circumstances.

Start Here

If you are experiencing financial hardship:

  1. Contact your mortgage servicer immediately.
  2. Speak with a HUD-approved housing counselor.
  3. Respond promptly to all notices or communications regarding your mortgage.
  4. Seek legal assistance if you have received foreclosure notices or court documents.

HUD-Approved Housing Counseling Agencies

HUD-certified housing counselors provide free or low-cost foreclosure prevention assistance and can help homeowners:

  • Understand available foreclosure prevention options
  • Communicate with their mortgage servicer
  • Apply for loan modifications, repayment plans, or forbearance options
  • Create a budget and action plan

Resources

HUD and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) recommend contacting a HUD-approved housing counselor as one of the first steps when facing mortgage payment difficulties.

Homeowners HOPE™ Hotline

The Homeowners HOPE™ Hotline is a free, confidential foreclosure prevention hotline staffed by HUD-approved housing counselors.

Phone: 888-995-HOPE (4673)

Resource

Counselors can help homeowners understand available options and, when appropriate, work directly with mortgage servicers to identify potential solutions.

Contact Your Mortgage Servicer Immediately

Your mortgage servicer may be able to offer loss mitigation options designed to help you avoid foreclosure.

Available options may include:

  • Loan modifications
  • Repayment plans
  • Forbearance agreements
  • Partial claims (for eligible FHA-insured loans)
  • Other assistance programs based on your circumstances

The sooner you contact your servicer, the more options may be available.

Resources by Mortgage Type

Additional foreclosure prevention programs and assistance may be available depending on the type of mortgage you have.

Fannie Mae

Homeowners with Fannie Mae-backed mortgages may qualify for foreclosure prevention assistance and other support programs.

Resources

Freddie Mac

Freddie Mac provides educational resources and foreclosure prevention options for eligible homeowners.

Resources

Federal Housing Administration (FHA)

Homeowners with FHA-insured mortgages may have access to specialized assistance programs and foreclosure prevention options.

Resources

USDA Rural Development Loans

Homeowners with USDA Rural Development loans may be eligible for additional assistance and support.

Resources

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)

The CFPB provides educational resources to help homeowners:

  • Understand the foreclosure process
  • Explore options to keep their home
  • Evaluate alternatives if they need to sell their home
  • Work effectively with their mortgage servicer

Resource

Legal Assistance

If you have received foreclosure notices, court documents, or have questions about your legal rights, seek legal assistance immediately.

Resources

These organizations may provide free or reduced-cost legal services, housing counseling, and foreclosure prevention assistance for qualifying homeowners.

Beware of Foreclosure Rescue Scams

Unfortunately, scammers often target homeowners facing financial hardship.

Warning Signs of a Foreclosure Rescue Scam

  • Someone guarantees they can stop foreclosure.
  • They request large upfront fees.
  • They advise you to stop communicating with your mortgage servicer.
  • They ask you to sign over ownership of your property or deed.
  • They pressure you to sign documents you do not understand.

HUD-approved housing counselors generally provide foreclosure prevention counseling at little or no cost. Be cautious of anyone who promises guaranteed results or requests payment before providing assistance.

If you suspect a scam, report it to the appropriate consumer protection authorities and contact a HUD-approved housing counselor for guidance.

Remember: Help Is Available

Foreclosure is often preventable. If you are experiencing financial hardship, do not wait. Contact your mortgage servicer or a HUD-approved housing counselor as soon as possible to discuss available options and develop a plan for your situation.

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