HUD-Approved Housing Counselors

What Are HUD-Approved Housing Counselors?

HUD-approved housing counseling agencies are organizations certified by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to provide free or low-cost advice on buying a home, renting, default, foreclosure avoidance, and credit issues. These counselors are trained professionals who can help you understand your options and navigate financial hardship.

How HUD Counselors Help HCG Applicants

HUD-approved counselors can assist you with:

• Financial Assessment: Review your income, expenses, and debts to create a complete financial picture
• HELOC Guidance: Help you understand your HELOC terms, obligations, and options
• Hardship Documentation: Assist with preparing the documentation needed for your HCG application
• Budget Planning: Develop a sustainable budget to manage your finances going forward
• Foreclosure Prevention: Explore all available options to avoid foreclosure
• Grant Application Support: Guide you through the HCG application process

Find a Counselor Near You

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development maintains a searchable database of HUD-approved housing counseling agencies across the country. You can find a counselor by:

• Online: Visit the HUD website at www.hud.gov/counseling
• Phone: Call HUD's interactive voice system at 401-965-6420
• In Person: Contact your local HUD office for a referral

Counseling services are available in multiple languages and can be conducted in person, over the phone, or online.

What to Expect

During your initial counseling session, you can expect:

• A confidential review of your financial situation
• Discussion of your HELOC and mortgage obligations
• Explanation of available assistance programs, including HCG
• A personalized action plan for addressing your financial hardship
• Referrals to additional resources as needed

Most initial counseling sessions are free. If there is a fee, the agency must disclose it before the session begins. You should never pay a large upfront fee for housing counseling.

HCG and HUD Counseling

While a HUD counseling certificate is not required to apply for an HCG grant, applicants who have completed HUD-approved counseling may receive priority consideration. Having a counseling certificate demonstrates proactive financial management and can strengthen your application.

If you have questions about HUD counseling or need help finding a counselor, contact HCG at 401-965-6420.