Behind on payments
Behind on your mortgage? This is when you have the most options.
No foreclosure notice yet means you are still early, and early is the best position to be in. Every missed payment adds fees and shrinks your choices, so the next few weeks matter.
In plain English
What happens when you miss payments
After you miss a payment, your loan servicer will usually charge late fees and begin collection calls and letters. If payments stay missed, the lender can begin the formal foreclosure process by recording a Notice of Default, at least 30 days after it contacts you about ways to avoid foreclosure. After a Notice of Default is recorded, you generally have 90 days to catch up on what is owed before a Notice of Sale can be recorded.
Typical timeline only. Your lender and loan type change it.
Options at this stage
Catch up on the loan
Pay the past-due amount, or ask for a repayment plan that spreads it over several months.
Ask for forbearance
A temporary pause or reduction in payments while you recover. Lender approval required.
Ask about a modification
A permanent change to loan terms to make payments affordable. Lender approval required.
Sell on your terms
With equity, a traditional sale now can pay off the loan and leave you proceeds. Much easier before a sale date exists.
Steps to take today
- Call your servicer and ask what hardship programs you qualify for. Write down the date, name, and what was said.
- Gather your last two pay stubs, recent bank statements, and your latest mortgage statement.
- Write a one-page explanation of what caused the hardship and whether it is temporary or permanent.
- Do not ignore mail from your lender. Deadlines are printed in it.
- Be cautious of anyone who asks for an upfront fee to “save” your home.
What I can and cannot do
I cannot promise to stop a foreclosure, and I am not an attorney. I can explain your options and your timeline and refer you to an attorney or HUD-approved housing counselor when you need one. No upfront fees.
Common questions
Is it too early to call someone?
No. Waiting is the most common mistake. Options are widest and cheapest before a Notice of Default is recorded.
Will missing payments ruin my credit?
Each missed payment can lower your score, and the damage grows with each month. Acting early limits it.
Do I have to sell my home?
No. Selling is one option among several, and only worth considering if it makes sense for you.
Related: Notice of Default · Loan modification and forbearance · Foreclosure prevention
Every missed payment makes this harder
Take 15 minutes today. I will explain what applies to your loan and what to do first.
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