Housing is one of the most important expenses in your monthly budget. It just so happens to often be one of the largest expenses, too. Because of this, it can become difficult to budget for unexpected expenses. Millions of households are currently facing financial burden. If you are worried about not being able to pay your mortgage, there are resources out there to help you.
Here’s what to do if you can’t afford your monthly payment.
What You Can Do if you Can’t Pay Your Mortgage
Don’t wait to take action until your payment is due. The sooner you can come up with a plan, the better off you’ll be. Reach out to your mortgage servicer for options to avoid foreclosure or a plan to get your house on the market. HERO, an affiliate of South Dakota Housing, can also connect you with FREE HUD approved housing counselors to navigate payment options. Options might include a repayment plan, loan modification, short sale or Deed-In-Lieu of foreclosure.
Watch Out for Scams
Scam artists offer fraudulent assistance to those affected by disasters or other economic distress. Always confirm the legitimacy of offers and never feel pressured to “take immediate action.”
Resources Available
The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act of 2020 provides unemployment benefits for the self-employed, independent contractors, nonprofit employees, gig economy workers, those who have exhausted other unemployment insurance benefits and those who may not have sufficient work history to qualify for a regular state claim. Just visit their site to learn more about this opportunity.
The Homeowner’s Guide to Success – This document explains the federal law and what to do if you can’t pay your mortgage.
Short-term Assistance – South Dakota Housing Development Authority is working to assist South Dakotans who have been impacted by COVID-19 and the related economic crisis by offering financial assistance to help stabilize their housing situation. If you are unable to pay rent, mortgage, or utilities because of the pandemic, short-term assistance may be available. Please visit www.sdhda.org for more information.
Helpline Center – 211 provides a 24/7 helpline that is connected to a prepared team, capable of providing information. If you need help finding food, or essential basic needs, call 211 to speak to someone who can help or visit their site.
