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 Resources for Homeowners Facing Foreclosure “Where to Look for Help”

How to get informed:

How to work with your creditors to explore other options:

  • Contact your County Treasurer website (https://www.michigan.gov/documents/2005_V_2006_FGU_116385_7.pdf) to see if they will accept payments for delinquent taxes, payment plans, debt forgiveness, and/or to apply for a Poverty tax exemption.
  • Contact your lender or loan servicer to discuss options that may be available, including reinstatement, forbearance, repayment plans, refinance, claim advances and/or loan modifications, short sale, or deed in lieu of foreclosure.

Where to get other financial assistance if you do not qualify for Step Forward Michigan:

  • The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) offers assistance through its Home Ownership Services program website (https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/0,5885,7-339-71547_5531-18245–,00.html).
  • The Housing and Urban Development (HUD) website (https://www.hud.gov/topics/avoiding_foreclosure) offers information about federal programs which may be of assistance to you.
  • The Michigan Department of Treasury website (https://www.michigan.gov/taxes) has information about tax benefits that could decrease tax debt such as: Michigan Principal Residence Exemption, the Michigan Homestead Property Tax Credit, the Michigan Poverty Exemption, or the Disabled Veterans Exemption.
  • Local funds may be available through foundations, churches, civic groups, etc.

Where to find services and opportunities to help offset household expenses:

  • The Michigan Office of Services to the Aging website (https://www.agingcare.com/local/michigan-office-of-services-to-the-aging-lansing-area-agency-on-aging-mi) offers a list of local agencies that offer services for older adults and adults with disabilities.
  • The Michigan State University Extension offers information about Starting Over After Foreclosure website (https://www.canr.msu.edu/mimoneyhealth/home-ownership/startingover)
  • The United Way offers assistance through their community-based Call 2-1-1 program. Information is also available on their website (https://www.mi211.org/).
  • The Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis (FHLBI) website (https://www.fhlbi.com/products-services/community-investment-and-housing/homeownership-initiatives/neighborhood-impact-program-(nip)) offers grants for energy efficiency upgrades or housing rehabilitation for eligible families.
  • If you are an eligible, disabled adult or over 65 and totally and permanently disabled, you may be eligible for a Special Assessment. Visit the Michigan’s State Disability Assistance Department website (https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/0,5885,7-339-71547_5526_7766—,00.html) or contact your city, township or county assessor for more information.
  • Income eligible families may qualify for Internet Essentials from Comcast. Visit their website (https://www.internetessentials.com/) or call 1-855-846-8376 to apply for low-cost computer and internet access for school-age children.
  • Veterans – to those who have served or who have supported a loved one who has, thank you. Please remember that your service earned benefits for you and your family. If you have questions about what those state and federal benefits are, or need emergency assistance when times are tough, call 800-MICH-VET, or visit Michigan Department of Military & Veterans Affairs website (https://www.michigan.gov/dmva) where you will be connected to services and veteran service officers in your community.
  • MSHDA’s Property Improvement Program (PIP) website (https://www.michigan.gov/mshda/0,4641,7-141-45866_47906_49317-187374–,00.html) provides loans up to $25,000 to substantially protect or improve the basic livability or utility of a home.
  • The City of Detroit website (http://www.detroithomeloans.org/) offers home improvement loans at 0% interest for qualified homeowners who are current on property taxes or property tax payment plan.

Where to find transitional housing and housing help:

  • Search for affordable rental housing at MSHDA’s Michigan Housing Locator website (http://www.michiganhousinglocator.com/Portals/mshda/Default.aspx).
  • Your Local Housing Authority website (https://www.hud.gov/sites/dfiles/PIH/documents/PHA_Contact_Report_MI.pdf) may offer Housing Choice Vouchers or subsidized housing.
  • Faith-Based and Community Organizations may offer assistance with moving and storage.
  • For Landlord-Tenant issues call Michigan State University’s Landlord Tenant Hotline at 517-336-8088 or visit the Michigan Legal Help website (https://michiganlegalhelp.org/self-help-tools/housing/tenant-rights-and-responsibilities)
  • Be aware of scams when searching the internet for rental housing. More information is available from the Federal Trade Commission website (https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0079-rental-listing-scams).

Where to turn for emotional support:

 Foreclosure can pose an enormous stress on a family’s mental wellbeing, leading to increased anxiety, depression and even thoughts of suicide. Help is available.

  • Veteran’s Crisis Line website (https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/) offers 24/7 assistance. You can also call 1-800-273-8255 (press 1) for assistance.
  • The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline website (https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/) is available 24/7 or you can call 1-800-273-8255 where you’ll be connected to a skilled, trained counselor at a crisis center in your area.