The Complete DIY
Loan Mod Playbook

Before you write a single letter or make a call, you need a complete picture of where you stand. This phase is about clarity.

• Review your loan documents and identify your servicer
• Calculate your gross monthly income vs. current payment
• Determine how many months behind you are
• Identify your hardship type and timeline
• Check if your loan is FHA, VA, USDA, or conventional

Your lender will request a complete loss mitigation package. Missing even one document can result in denial. Use this checklist.

• Last 2 months of all bank statements (all accounts)
• Last 2 pay stubs or 2 years of tax returns if self-employed
• Most recent mortgage statement
• Hardship letter (use our template)
• Proof of any other income (rental, disability, alimony)
• Most recent utility bill for proof of occupancy

Contact the loss mitigation department — not customer service — and submit your complete package. Document everything.

• Call loss mitigation directly (not the main 800 number)
• Ask for the fax number or secure upload portal
• Submit via certified mail or portal with confirmation
• Get a case number and rep name in writing
• Follow up within 5 business days to confirm receipt

The follow-up phase is where most homeowners give up — and where persistence pays off. Call every 5–7 business days without exception.

• Call every 5–7 business days and log every call
• Ask: 'Is my file complete? What is the next step?'
• Respond to any lender requests within 48 hours
• If stalled, ask to speak with a supervisor
• If denied, request the denial reason in writing and appeal