Reverse Mortgage Counseling for a More Secure Retirement

Are you 62 or older and weighing a reverse mortgage as part of your retirement plan? Reverse mortgage counseling from Credit.org gives you the clear, unbiased guidance you need before signing on the dotted line.

This program lets you tap into your home equity to supplement retirement income, eliminate other debt, or cover monthly expenses. Through our HUD-approved reverse mortgage counseling session, you will gain a clear understanding of what a reverse mortgage is, how it works, and whether a reverse mortgage loan fits your long-term financial needs.

Credit.org is a nonprofit, HUD-certified housing counseling agency and a member of the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC). We have provided trusted reverse mortgage counseling for more than 50 years.
Magnifying glass placed over colorful financial reports, symbolizing analysis, review, and attention to detail.Magnifying glass placed over colorful financial reports, symbolizing analysis, review, and attention to detail.

Start Your Reverse Mortgage Counseling Journey with Clear Guidance and Support

Senior couple exploring reverse mortgage options together on a tablet at home.Senior couple exploring reverse mortgage options together on a tablet at home.

Explore Your Reverse Mortgage Options to Find the Right Fit

Learn how it works and what benefits a reverse mortgage loan can provide, such as accessing funds from your equity while continuing to live in your home. Our reverse mortgage counseling is designed to explain the pros and cons so you can decide if this type of loan fits your financial goals.

Achieve Clarity for a More Secure Retirement

Our HUD-certified housing counseling team walks you through the loan types, terms, interest rates, and repayment structure. You will learn how the details of your reverse mortgage loan impact your equity, retirement plans, and long-term financial well-being.
Senior woman on the phone, gaining clarity and planning with her laptop and notebook to secure a comfortable retirement.
Senior woman on the phone, gaining clarity and planning with her laptop and notebook to secure a comfortable retirement.

Take the Next Step Toward Confident Retirement Planning

Leave your reverse mortgage counseling appointment with confidence and a personalized summary of your options. Whether you are planning to age in place, travel more, or simply reduce financial stress, our counseling team will help you move forward with peace of mind.

Step-by-Step
Reverse Mortgage Counseling Process

Step 1
Start With the Basics of a Reverse Mortgage

Your counseling session starts with the fundamentals. Learn how it allows you to convert home equity into income. This counseling appointment gives you a clear answer to what it is and what benefits the loan might bring.

Step 2
Choose the Right
Type of Reverse Mortgage

mortgage counseling helps you discover the different types of reverse mortgage loans, including Single-Purpose, the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM), and Proprietary Reverse Mortgage. Your HECM counseling session clarifies the unique aspects of each type and helps you decide which option best fits your needs.

Step 3
Discuss Pros, Cons, and Alternatives

Your counseling team will explain the long-term impact of a reverse mortgage loan, answer your questions, and make sure you understand the risks, benefits, and whether this is the best choice for your lifestyle. Counseling also covers alternatives such as downsizing, a home equity loan, or enrolling in a debt management program to address other obligations before exploring this option.

Step 3
Get Your HECM Counseling Certificate and a Clear Retirement Strategy

Once your counseling session wraps up, you receive your HECM counseling document required to proceed. Any reverse mortgage lender will need this before they can process your reverse mortgage loan. This counseling fulfills the HUD requirement and gives you a confident plan to use your home equity to reduce debt, increase income, or enjoy the retirement you have earned.
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Reverse Mortgage Counseling Tools and Resources for Informed Planning

Get clear, unbiased resources to help you understand how this product works. From eligibility checklists to equity calculators, our tools empower you to explore your options, plan confidently, and protect your long-term financial future.
Explore Our Resources

Reverse Mortgage FAQs

What Are the Eligibility Requirements for a Reverse Mortgage?

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To qualify, you must be 62 or older, own your home, and live in it as your primary residence. Reverse mortgage counseling with a HUD-certified counselor will confirm your eligibility and walk you through next steps.

Why Speak with a Counselor from a HUD-Approved Agency?

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A HUD-certified counselor ensures you fully understand the risks, costs, and benefits so you can make a confident, informed decision. HUD requires this counseling before any HECM loan can close, and proper counseling protects you from costly mistakes.

How Can I Know If a Reverse Mortgage Is Right for Me?

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Our HUD-approved counselors will help you assess your finances, explain the pros and cons, and guide you through the decision based on your goals and needs.

Will I Still Have an Estate to Leave to My Heirs?

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Yes. Any remaining home equity after repaying the reverse mortgage loan and interest goes to your estate or heirs when the home is sold or vacated. Counseling can also help you plan ahead so your loved ones know what to expect.

Dive Into Our Reverse Mortgage Blogs for Deeper Insights