What should I do if I may miss a mortgage payment?

Start with the current servicer

Explain what changed and whether the problem may be temporary or ongoing. Ask for the available assistance process, required documents and deadlines. Keep notes and confirmations. Assistance is reviewed under applicable requirements; requesting it is not approval.

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Understand any proposed arrangement

Ask what happens to unpaid amounts, when regular payments resume and whether a balance comes due later. A pause or reduction is not automatically forgiveness. Get the terms in writing before relying on a new payment arrangement.

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Use qualified help

A HUD approved housing counselor can help you understand foreclosure prevention options. The CFPB resource linked below explains how to find help. If you receive court papers or face a legal deadline, contact qualified legal assistance promptly rather than waiting for a mortgage marketing consultation.

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Be careful with promises

Be cautious if someone guarantees to stop foreclosure, tells you to stop talking to your servicer or requests payment for a promised rescue. Verify the organization and advice. Do not send sensitive documents through a public website form.

Review the broader budget after urgent steps

A mortgage planning conversation can help organize future questions, but it does not submit an assistance application or change what the servicer requires. Prioritize the servicer and qualified counselor when a payment or legal deadline is approaching.