A mortgage is a major responsibility; however life can bring unexpected events that cause financial strain.

If something arises and you know you are not going to be able to make your monthly mortgage payment. Here are four proactive steps that you can take towards keeping your home and maintaining your credit:

1. Budget, Budget, Budget...

   Maintaining a monthly budget is the best way to keep your finances in order. If there has been a change in your financial situation, reconstruct your budget to adapt to your new financial limitations.

2. Call Your Servicer...

   Your Servicer, the lender that receives your mortgage payment, is your contact. See what types of assistance they may be able to offer you with your mortgage. The sooner you call the better.

3. Seek Credit Counseling...

   If you are behind in your mortgage payments, credit counseling can help you establish a budget, set priorties, and determine the appropriate strategies to stop foreclosure and help you keep your home. Find a HUD approved certified counselor nearest to you by selecting your county location on the map provided on this website.

4. Be Practical...

   If it is unlikely that you can continue to remain in your home, consider listing your home for sale.

Taking the first step in saving your home and protecting your credit is the best decision you can make.