The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development recently received reports of homeowners with USDA mortgage loans receiving letters offering special assistance through the Home Affordable Modification Program (HAMP) and Making Home Affordable trial program for loans that are delinquent.
The letter claims to provide a payment plan and asks the customer to complete a form to be faxed or mailed that asks for private information, including a social security number and signature.
Do not respond to this inquiry. This is not a legitimate request.
If you receive a suspicious call or letter regarding your Rural Development home loan, do not following the instructions and instead contact Rural Development directly at 1-800-414-1226 or rdquestion@stl.usda.gov.
If you suspect you have been a victim of identity fraud, you should contact your local authorities.
We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.