Emergency Funds and Resources to Explore Before Foreclosure

Before foreclosure becomes the only conversation, check for: state and local homeowner assistance funds, utility and property tax deferral programs that can free up cash for your mortgage (Texas offers a property tax deferral specifically for homeowners 65+ or disabled), unemployment or disability benefits you may be entitled to but haven't claimed, hardship withdrawal or loan options from retirement accounts (weigh the tax consequences carefully), and local nonprofit emergency assistance funds.

These won't fix a long-term income gap, but they can bridge a temporary one long enough for a loss mitigation plan to take effect.