Washington Foreclosure Help
When a homeowner defaults on a mortgage loan, the lender initiates the foreclosure process. In Washington, the foreclosure process takes about four months. If you are a homeowner struggling to make your payment, seek assistance as soon as possible. Begin by contacting your lender to explore possible options at the first sign of trouble to increase the odds of preventing foreclosure. Even if you are in active foreclosure, help is available.
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Counseling
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Free foreclosure prevention counseling is offered to Washington residents. You can contact the Washington Homeownership Information Hotline by calling 877-894-4663. A counselor will ask questions about your mortgage and finances to evaluate options and explain assistance programs. Additional nonprofit counseling agencies can be found by visiting the Department of Housing and Urban Development website.
Making Home Affordable
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The federal Making Home Affordable program provides options to lower the mortgage payments for Washington homeowners. If you are current on your Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac loan, you may be eligible to refinance through the program. Homeowners who are delinquent can apply for a loan modification. To be eligible for a loan modification, you must experience an income reduction. The modification works by lowering your interest rate and/or extending the length of the loan. Your lender or counselor can determine if you qualify for the program.
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Tax Assistance
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The Washington Department of Revenue's Tax Deferral Program is designed to help low-income homeowners who are unable to afford their taxes. The Department of Revenue will pay 50 percent of the property taxes or special assessments on the homeowner's behalf. Specific eligibility requirements can be found on the Department of Revenue's website or by calling 360-570-5900. You can also contact your local county assessor's office.
Legal Aid
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The Washington State Bar Association Home Foreclosure Legal Aid Project provides needy homeowners with legal services. The services include legal advice and representation. The pro bono attorney can represent you in court and challenge the foreclosure, if necessary. To be eligible, you must demonstrate financial need and meet the income requirements.
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