I Can't Afford My Mortgage. What Do I Do?
You're not alone. Google searches for “help with mortgage” are at the highest level since 2009. Millions of homeowners are in the same position. There's no shame in this — and there's more help available than you think.
Step 1 — make this call today (free, confidential):
888-995-HOPE (4673)
HUD-approved counselors. They'll review your entire situation and tell you exactly which option fits. Free, 24/7.
Where Are You Right Now?
Click the one that matches your situation:
“I'm current but about to miss my next payment”
Best option: Call your servicer and request forbearance BEFORE you miss the payment. You have the most leverage right now.
“I've already missed 1-3 payments”
Best option: Apply for a loan modification or forbearance. You're still in the window where all options are available.
“I got a foreclosure notice”
Best option: Call 888-995-HOPE immediately. You may still qualify for a modification, short sale, or Chapter 13 to stop the process.
“My forbearance is ending and I still can't pay”
Best option: Request a deferral (moves missed payments to end of loan) or loan modification. You do NOT have to repay in a lump sum.
“Someone offered to help but wants money upfront”
That's likely a scam. Legitimate help is free. Read our guide before giving anyone money.
The 4 Things to Do This Week
- Call 888-995-HOPE and get matched with a free HUD counselor. They see your full financial picture and recommend the right path. (15 minutes)
- Call your mortgage servicer and ask for the loss mitigation department. Say: “I'm experiencing financial hardship and want to discuss all available options.” (30 minutes)
- Gather your documents: 2 months of pay stubs, 2 years of tax returns, 3 months of bank statements, your most recent mortgage statement. Full checklist here. (1-2 hours)
- Check if you qualify for assistance: Federal and state programs can cover months of missed payments. HAF funds are still available in some states but running out. (15 minutes)
What NOT to Do
- Don't ignore the situation. Every month you wait, your options narrow. At 30 days late, you have 5+ options. At 120 days, you have 2-3.
- Don't pay someone for help. HUD counselors, CFPB resources, and loss mitigation applications are all free. Scams are up 407%.
- Don't drain your retirement accounts. 401(k) hardship withdrawals lose 35-40% to taxes and penalties. See the real math.
- Don't assume foreclosure is inevitable. 70% of homeowners who contact a HUD counselor early keep their home.