Progress 0 of 13

Check items off as you gather each document.

Hardship letter — 1–2 pages explaining what happened, when it started, and how you plan to recover.

Be specific: job loss, medical bills, divorce, hours cut. Say what you are asking for.

Use our free generator →
Pay stubs — Last 2–3 months from all income sources.

Include every household earner on the mortgage.

Bank statements — Last 2–3 months, all accounts, all pages.

Checking, savings, and any investment accounts. Do not black out transactions.

Most recent federal tax return — All pages including schedules.

Last 2 years if you are self-employed.

W-2s or 1099s — Last 2 years.
Proof of other income

Social Security, disability, unemployment, pension, child support, alimony, rental income.

Most recent mortgage statement

Shows your loan number, balance, payment amount, and servicer contact info.

Monthly expense list

Rent/mortgage, utilities, food, insurance, transportation, medical, childcare, minimum debt payments.

Use our financial worksheet →
Property tax bill — Most recent.
Homeowners insurance declaration page

Shows coverage amount and annual premium.

HOA or condo fee statements

If applicable. Include any past-due amounts.

Divorce decree or separation agreement

If applicable. Includes child support or alimony obligations.

Medical documentation

If your hardship is medical. Hospital bills, disability determination, or doctor’s letter.

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Why Document Preparation Matters

Missing documents are the #1 reason loss mitigation applications are denied or delayed. Under Regulation X (12 CFR § 1024.41), your servicer must evaluate a complete application within 30 days — but an incomplete submission gives them grounds to request more information, restarting the clock.

The 13 items on this checklist cover the standard documentation required by FHA, VA, conventional, and USDA loan servicers. Having everything ready before you call puts you in the strongest position. A HUD-approved counselor can review your package for completeness at no cost.

If you've already used our hardship letter generator and financial worksheet, you've covered items 1 and 8 on this list. This tracker helps you gather the remaining documents your servicer will need.

What Happens After You Submit

Once your servicer receives a complete package, Regulation X requires them to:

  • Acknowledge receipt within 5 business days
  • Evaluate your application within 30 days
  • Not start or advance foreclosure while your application is under review (the dual tracking prohibition)
  • Offer you an appeal if denied

Keep copies of everything you submit. If your servicer says your application is incomplete, use this tracker's notes to record what was sent and when.

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If this affects you, free help is available. Behind on mortgage? · Short sale guide · Bankruptcy guide · Find a housing counselor · Browse the Glossary · HUD-approved housing counselors are free (1-800-569-4287).