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    Find a Free HUD-Approved Housing Counselor Near You: Your

    J

    Justin Reynolds

    3 min read
    housingcrisis hudapproved scamavoidance housinghelp

    Key Takeaways

    • Find HUD-approved housing counselors for free or low-cost help
    • Avoid housing scams by recognizing red flags
    • Get immediate help through HUD's referral line and the HOPE hotline

    Navigate the housing crisis with trusted guidance. Find HUD-approved counselors, avoid scams, and get immediate help when needed.

    Find counseling by ZIP code

    Search online

    1. Visit HUD's housing counselor search and enter your ZIP code or city and state.

    2. For more resources, check the CFPB counseling locator.

    When local options are scarce, look to NeighborWorks America or your state housing finance agency for assistance.

    Call now if you need help today

    HUD Referral Line: 1-800-569-4287
    Available Monday - Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM ET. Serves homeowners and renters nationwide.

    HOPE Hotline: 1-888-995-HOPE (4673)
    Available 24/7, serving homeowners facing immediate foreclosure risk nationwide.

    Scam screening

    • Deed transfer requests
    • Pressure to stop speaking with your lender
    • Large upfront payments by wire or gift card

    Specialty filters

    Beyond ZIP code, most counseling searches let you narrow by specialty and language. Specialty options typically include pre-purchase counseling, foreclosure prevention, reverse mortgage counseling, rental counseling, and homebuyer education classes. Many HUD-approved agencies also offer counseling in Spanish and other languages -- look for a language filter on the search tool, or ask when you call, since availability varies by agency and location.

    Legal Compliance

    Disclaimer: While we strive to provide accurate and reliable information, please verify all details with the specific housing counseling agency or service.

    How can I find a free HUD-approved housing counselor near me?

    Answer: You can use HUD's official search tool, linked above, by entering your ZIP code or location. This will help you find local HUD-approved agencies that offer free counseling services.

    Can I get housing counseling in a language other than English?

    Answer: Yes. Many HUD-approved agencies offer counseling in Spanish and other languages. Availability varies by agency, so check the language options listed in HUD's search results or ask when you call the HUD referral line.

    What's the difference between a HUD-approved agency and a HUD-certified counselor?

    Answer: A HUD-approved agency is an organization that has been approved by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to provide housing counseling services, while a HUD-certified counselor is an individual within these agencies who has met HUD's requirements for training and expertise in specific areas of housing counseling.

    How do I verify if an agency is truly HUD-approved?

    Answer: To confirm the HUD approval status of an agency, you can visit the HUD's online database (www.hud.gov/offices/hsg/sfh/hcc/hcs.cfm) and search for the agency by name or location. If they appear in the results, they are approved.

    What type of housing counseling services can I expect from a HUD-approved agency?

    Answer: Services offered may include pre-purchase counseling, foreclosure prevention, reverse mortgage counseling, and homebuyer education classes, among others. It's essential to contact the specific agency for details on their available services.

    How much does housing counseling from a HUD-approved agency cost?

    Answer: Most HUD-approved agencies offer free housing counseling services. However, some may charge fees for additional services or materials. Always verify the costs before engaging in any service.

    What should I do if I'm facing an immediate foreclosure risk and need urgent support?

    Answer: In cases of imminent foreclosure, it is crucial to contact a HUD-approved housing counselor as soon as possible. You can find local agencies using HUD's official search tool, linked above, or by calling the HUD referral line (1-800-569-4287). Additionally, you may also seek assistance from the HOPE hotline (1-888-995-HOPE) for urgent foreclosure support.

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