Mortgage Counseling Can Benefit Homeowners

The application period for Alaska Housing Homeowner Assistance closed on April 4, 2022. Current applicants can check the status of their application online.

Homeowners facing financial challenges may have questions about their mortgages. Knowing where to turn for answers is an important part of making the best possible individual decisions.

For homeowners who might be struggling financially, mortgage counseling may help you understand what options are available and evaluate steps you can take to remain securely housed.

Housing counselors are individuals who can provide mortgage counseling. They offer guidance, outline your current situation, develop a plan of action and help work with your Mortgage Servicer.

Most importantly, if you are having difficulties making ends meet, or delinquent on your mortgage payments, take action now. Your first step is to proactively reach out to your Mortgage Servicer to discuss potential options that may be available.

Do I Need Mortgage Counseling for Homeowner Assistance?

Alaska Housing Homeowner Assistance is designed to help homeowners avoid mortgage delinquencies and foreclosures, and may help to prevent past due property taxes and the loss of critical utilities.

We recommend mortgage counseling as a helpful step if you are thinking about applying for Homeowner Assistance prior to the application period closing on April 4, 2022. A housing counselor can make sure you have all the information you need to make the best decisions for you and your family.

How Can I Find a Housing Counselor?

You can click here for agencies in Alaska that provide housing counselors approved by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. More information is available on the HUD website or you can call 1-800-569-4287 toll free.

How Much Does Mortgage Counseling Cost?

Housing counselors approved by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development can provide information at no cost to you.

What Information Do I Need Prior to Calling?

A housing counselor will need to fully understand your financial situation. Prior to calling for mortgage counseling, make sure you have the following information available to share with the counselor:

• Your monthly income and expenses
• Your overall debts and assets
• Information about your mortgage. This can include the mortgage servicer, monthly payment amount, the total amount of the loan and when you got the loan, and when you last contacted your mortgage servicer
• The counselor may ask for other financial information such as pay stubs, bank statements, tax returns, or other monthly bills you pay

What Can I Expect When Talking to a Housing Counselor?

A call may last about an hour. The housing counselor will ask about your specific situation and why you are having difficulty paying your mortgage.

The counselor will go through what options you have and explain what resources may be available. Your housing counselor will create an action plan for you and review it with you. This recommendation will be provided to your mortgage servicer.

At the end of the session, you may have a conference call with your servicer and counselor to discuss your plan and finalize next steps.

Where Can I Learn About Alaska Housing Homeowner Assistance?

• Read FAQs about Alaska Housing Homeowner Assistance
• Click here to register and check eligibility
• Contact our Call Center at 1-833-330-8290 toll free
• Contact your Mortgage Servicer

What Are Other Resources for Homeowners

Guidance About Foreclosure & Forbearance

Protect your investment and keep your family housed by learning how to avoid foreclosure. If you are eligible for immediate mortgage relief or forbearance and how to apply.

Your Rights As A Homeowner & Where To Find Legal Aid

Get free legal advice about keeping your home and your rights as a homeowner. Click here to learn more.

Information for Homeowners Unable To Pay Mortgage

The Homeowner’s Guide to Success has valuable information and resources for homeowners having difficulty paying their mortgages.

 

Editor's note: AHFC is no longer accepting new applications nor appeals to apply for Alaska Housing Homeowner Assistance. Links to the application and/or appeals process were removed on May 1, 2023.