In response to the pandemic, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was signed into law on March 27, 2020. Included in the CARES Act are provisions that allow homeowners to delay mortgage payments through forbearance for federally owned or backed mortgage loans.
True or False?
Under the CARES Act, when a mortgage payment forbearance period ends, a lump-sum balloon payment is immediately required to catch up on missed payments.
Answer: False
Although you can choose to repay all the missed payments at one time in a balloon payment, doing so is not required under the CARES Act. After the suspension ends, a variety of repayment options may be available depending on your lender and mortgage type. Repayment options may include setting up a repayment plan, modifying the payment, or increasing the length of your loan to account for the missed payments.
Once a mortgage is placed in forbearance, the loan payments will be temporarily suspended, but this does not mean the loan is forgiven or removed. The good news is that while the mortgage is in forbearance, late fees will not apply. Interest will continue to accrue on the mortgage during forbearance, however.
The following information can help you determine if you qualify for mortgage payment forbearance:
- Eligibility: Eligible homeowners include those who have (1) experienced a COVID-19 hardship, such as a loss of a job, reduction of income, or sickness, and (2) have a federally owned or backed mortgage. Federally backed mortgages may include those backed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Federal Housing Administration, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Fannie Mae, or Freddie Mac.
- The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has tools to help you look up which organization owns your mortgage. You can also contact your mortgage lender to confirm which organization owns your mortgage.
- Duration of relief: Payment relief is available for 180 days. In addition, you can apply for an extension for another 180 days.
- How to access relief: Reach out to your loan servicer to discuss solutions available.
Some states have provided temporary relief from certain foreclosures or evictions as well. Many companies are also providing a range of mortgage relief options as needed. For mortgages not backed by the federal government, contact your mortgage servicer to see how it can help.