You do not have to figure this out alone.
If you are behind on your mortgage or other household bills, start early. Free and nonprofit help may be available. Eligibility and funding can change, so call before visiting and ask what documents to bring.
Want this resource list on your phone?
Send the word RESOURCE to Thad at Trusted Real Estate Solutions. Your text starts the conversation, so no paid people-search service is needed.
If foreclosure papers have been filed
- Open every letter and court notice. Do not ignore a certified letter from the Clerk of Courts.
- Call your mortgage servicer and ask for its loss-mitigation department.
- Get legal help promptly. The Ohio Attorney General warns that a homeowner generally has 28 days to answer a foreclosure complaint, even while talking with the lender.
- Do not pay an upfront fee for foreclosure-prevention help. Free help is available from the organizations below.
Mortgage and foreclosure help
Save the Dream Ohio
Ohio's free foreclosure-prevention referral service can connect homeowners with housing counseling, legal assistance, and other help.
Legal Aid of Southeast and Central Ohio
Provides civil legal help for qualifying people in Licking County. Call promptly if you have received a foreclosure complaint or other court papers.
Alternate: 888-831-9412
Address: 15 W. Locust Street, Suite A, Newark
Phone hours: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Licking County Job & Family Services
The PRC program lists mortgage, rent, utility, and certain employment-related assistance for eligible low-income families with a minor child. Income, work, and other requirements apply.
Licking County Coalition of Care
Publishes help with rent or mortgage payments, utility payments, and other urgent needs for eligible Licking County residents.
HUD-Approved Housing Counseling
A HUD-approved counselor can provide free or low-cost guidance tailored to foreclosure, mortgage, credit, and other housing concerns.
Bills, utilities, food, and housing emergencies
2-1-1 / Pathways of Central Ohio
Call for current referrals based on your ZIP code and immediate need. This is often the best first call when you do not know which local program has funds available.
LEADS Community Action Agency
Administers utility-assistance programs and provides food-pantry and other community services. Utility-assistance applications can also be started through Ohio Energy Help.
The Salvation Army - Newark Corps
Publishes emergency shelter, meals, a food pantry, and limited rental and utility assistance. Funds may be available only during certain periods, so call Social Services first.
Licking County Coalition for Housing
Assists people who are experiencing homelessness or need help locating community and housing resources.
Food Pantry Network of Licking County
Coordinates 20 local food banks and pantries. The network publishes current pickup schedules and says food may be available immediately with the required documentation.
Veterans and homeowner repair assistance
Licking County Veterans' Service Commission
Emergency funds for food, housing, and utilities may be available to qualifying veterans, active-duty personnel, and their dependents. County-residency and military-document requirements apply, and appointments are required.
Licking County Planning & Development
The county administers housing-rehabilitation funds for eligible low- and moderate-income homeowners who need qualifying repairs. This is not emergency mortgage assistance.