Housing Counselors Can Help During Financial Hardship and Disaster Recovery

Housing counselors can help anyone, but they’re especially helpful if you’re facing financial hardship or have been affected by a disaster.

Counselors can:

• Assess your current situation.
• Share mortgage relief options, including ways to stay in your home and avoid foreclosure.
• Help create an action plan that fits your needs.
• Talk to your mortgage company or landlord for you.
• Check in with you over time for added support.

The sooner you reach out for help, the more choices you may have available.

After you’re matched with a housing counselor, they’ll set up a meeting — either online or in person. Most first meetings last about an hour.

Here’s what to expect:

• Protecting privacy: Your counselor will start by explaining that your personal information is confidential and protected by law per the Fair Credit Reporting Act (14 U.S.C. 1681).
• Sharing your story: If you’re having financial problems, be ready to share how much you owe, your income, and your monthly bills. If you’ve been through a disaster, you’ll talk about the damage to your home and whether you have insurance.
• Getting support: Your counselor will ask questions to understand your needs and help you determine the best course of action. They may provide guidance during the meeting or follow up later with more resources.
• Making a plan: You’ll get a written action plan — including steps you can take and services that may help you — personalized just for you.

This meeting is a chance to get real support from someone who understands housing challenges. The counselor will listen, guide you, and help you move forward.