Implement Your Plan

Take Action

It is time to put your plan into action once you have:

• Evaluated your current financial situation
• Established your financial goals
• Developed a financial recovery plan

Seek Assistance

When you are ready to put your financial recovery plan into action, you may need assistance to help cover your monthly expenses (e.g., mortgage, rent, food, and utility bills).

To identify and learn about local, state, and national assistance programs:

• Ask friends and family members if they are familiar with any assistance programs.
• Contact your utility providers and ask about assistance programs, or visit their website for information and enroll if applicable.
• Call 211 or visit www.211.org.
• Look for food banks and national food assistance programs that may operate in your area.
• Contact your local Department of Human Services or Social Services.
• Seek referrals through your Employer Assistance Program, unemployment office, financial counselor, or financial advisor.

If you think you make too much money to qualify for assistance programs, do not assume! Check regardless of your income level. There are programs available that do not have income guidelines or provide benefits to those in a medium or moderate income level.

Additionally, you can refer to:

• www.recovery.gov for more information about initiatives resulting from the Recovery Act
• www.govbenefits.gov for details on the broader array of federal loan programs and to determine if you are eligible for government benefits
• www.makinghomeaffordable.govto determine if you are eligible for programs that help you avoid foreclosure or overcome obstacles to refinancing your home loan
  • Note: you can also call your mortgage lender or loan servicer to find out if your loan is eligible. If you already know that your loan is held or guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac, you can contact them at 1-800-7FANNIE or 1-800-FREDDIE to see if you qualify for this program.