Q: What should you do first if you can’t pay your mortgage or can pay only part of it?

A: You should contact your lender as soon as you realize that you have a problem, and be prepared with your account information and a summary of the problems you are experiencing.

Q: Is forbearance my only option?

A: Your lender can tell you if your mortgage qualifies for any of the mortgage forbearance options. However, there may also be other options that the lender can discuss with you that might better suit your financial circumstances.

Q: What does forbearance entail, and how long can it last?

A: Under the Cares Act’s mortgage forbearance program, a homeowner experiencing financial hardship as a result of the coronavirus pandemic can request a short-term forbearance and not be required to make monthly mortgage payments for the period of that agreement.  Additionally, servicers must extend the forbearance for up to 180 days, if the homeowner requests it.

Q: What documentation will I need to prove I can’t pay?

A: Documentation requirements are minimal. Borrowers need to request the forbearance and affirm that they are experiencing a pandemic-related financial emergency.

Q: Will late fees accumulate until I can get caught up again?

A: No.

Q: How do I get caught up? Will I need to make a lump-sum payment, or can it be added to my loan balance?

In some cases, the amount covered under the forbearance agreement would be moved to the back of the loan balance and satisfied at the time the mortgage is paid in full. However, homeowners should discuss and clarify expectations with the lender.

Q: Will this hurt my credit score?

A: No. During the period of the forbearance agreement, mortgage payment delinquency will not be reported to the credit bureaus.

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