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 Home Affordable Unemployment Program (UP)

If you are unemployed and depending on your situation, MHA's Home Affordable Unemployment Program (UP) may reduce your mortgage payments to 31 percent of your income or suspend them altogether for 12 months or more.

 
+ Eligibility
You may be eligible for UP if you meet all of the following criteria:
  • You are unemployed and eligible for unemployment benefits.
  • You occupy the house as your primary residence.
  • You have not previously received a HAMPSM modification.
  • You obtained your mortgage on or before January 1, 2009.
  • You owe up to $729,750 on your home.

*Eligibility criteria are for guidance only. Contact your mortgage servicer to see if you are eligible for UP.

 

+ Program Availability
  • More than 100 HAMP-participating servicers can offer UP to eligible unemployed homeowners.
  • You may be required to make a partial payment, not to exceed 31 percent of your verified monthly gross (pre-tax) income including unemployment benefits.
  • You will be evaluated for a HAMP mortgage modification at the end of your UP forbearance period if it is available at that time.

UP is not currently available for homeowners with mortgages held by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac; however, both have their own forbearance arrangements for unemployed homeowners. Please contact your mortgage servicer to see if you are eligible.

Program ends December 31, 2013.

+ For More Information

You have additional questions about getting mortgage help, contact one of our housing experts at 888-995-HOPE (4673). These HUD-approved housing counselors will help you understand your options, design a plan to suit your individual situation, and prepare your application. Research shows that homeowners who work with housing experts like these are more successful and have better long-term outcomes. There is no cost to you for this valuable, around-the-clock service. Help is available in more than 160 languages.

+ Videos

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Key Terms on This Page:

ForbearanceA special agreement between the lender and the borrower to temporarily postpone or reduce payments., Verified Monthly Gross (pre-tax) IncomeThe amount of money earned or received each month before taxes and any payroll deductions are taken out, as confirmed by your pay stub and other income documentation.
Last Updated: 3/29/2012 10:48 AM

Help is a Phone Call Away

888-995-HOPE (4673)
Hearing impaired: 877-304-9709 TTY

As you enter a process that can sometimes be overwhelming, it would be in your best interest to engage a housing expert to help you along the way. Let a HUD-approved housing counselor help you understand your options, prepare your application, and work with your mortgage company.

Homeowner's HOPE™ Hotline

Hear it from Homeowners

Curtis and Darlene, Chicago IL

Curtis and Darlene of Chicago, IL

Curtis and Darlene had lived in their home for 35 years when Curtis lost his job. That’s when MHA helped them cut their mortgage payments in half.

See their story (PSA)

Beware of Scams

 

Unfortunately, and far too often, homeowners looking for mortgage help end up victimized by scam artists. Know the warning signs to protect yourself, your money, and your home.

Learn where to file a complaint

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