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USDA Announces Moratorium to Help USDA Borrowers in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands

Name
Joseph Diego
Release Date

   HILO, HI, – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development State Director for Hawaii, American Samoa and the Western Pacific Gigi Jones today announced housing payment relief for homeowners in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) who were affected by Super Typhoon Yutu.

   “USDA stands with the residents of CNMI and our thoughts and prayers go out to them during these very challenging and difficult times,” Jones said. “The moratorium will allow homeowners with USDA loans to focus on recovery and getting their lives back in order without the added stress of a mortgage payment.”

   A moratorium on USDA home loans provides immediate but temporary assistance by suspending borrower payments for up to 24 months. USDA may consider and grant a moratorium when an event is deemed temporary and beyond the borrower’s control.  The destruction created by Super Typhoon Yutu severely impacted the livelihoods and property of CNMI residents.

   Moratorium letters have been issued to borrowers whose accounts were in good standing prior to the impact of the typhoon. USDA Rural Development officials stand ready to provide on-site customer service by visiting Saipan to meet with homeowners and discuss the moratorium and other loan servicing options that may benefit affected borrowers.  

   Affected borrowers can also call USDA officials in Guam at (671) 472-7490 to get answers to questions they may have about their loans. The Department of Agriculture is committed to supporting the people and communities of CNMI as they undertake long-term recovery efforts. A variety of program flexibilities and other assistance is available to help repair and rebuild infrastructure, essential community facilities and businesses.

   USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities and create jobs in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural areas. For more information, visit www.rd.usda.gov/hi.