How to Find a Nonprofit Mortgage Counselor

Falling behind on your mortgage payments? Adjustable loan about to go up but not your income? There are nonprofit agencies that can help you get and remain current on your mortgage. Here are some steps you can take to assure you are getting the assistance of a legitimate nonprofit HUD-certified housing counseling agency.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Ask your mortgage lender for a list of HUD certified housing counselors in your area. Most major lenders have FHA loans and therefore, are required to have a list of HUD certified housing counseling nonprofit agencies

2. Many nonprofit credit counseling agencies are also HUD certified counseling agencies. A legitimate credit counselor will not put a client on a credit card debt management program until mortgage arrears are addressed. A nonprofit HUD certified credit-counseling agency would review options for dealing with mortgage delinquencies and develop a plan of action for getting current prior to addressing unsecured debt.

3. Many larger communities have a phone referral service. By calling 211, you can speak to a live human, tell them you are behind on your mortgage and looking for a local nonprofit housing counseling agency.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not pay for mortgage arrears counseling. A true nonprofit receives a grant from HUD so there is no cost to clients who are behind on mortgage payments.
• Do not give any money to a business or individual who says they will deal with your mortgage company. This is a scam and will only put you further behind on your mortgage payments.