If you cannot make your mortgage payment...

1.Don't ignore the problem. The further behind you get, the harder it is to work out a solution.

2.Contact your lender ASAP. Lenders have set up programs to help fix bad loans and slow foreclosures.

3.Call the national foreclosure-prevention hotline Hope Now at 888-995-4673 or visit www.hopenow.com.

4.Respond to all mail from your lender, which can include foreclosure-prevention options and notices of legal actions.

5.Know your mortgage rights. Research Arizona foreclosure laws.

6.Contact a non-profit housing counselor.

7.Use your assets. Can you sell a second car or jewelry to catch up on your loan? Can anyone in your household get another job? These things will show your lender you're willing to face hardships to keep the house.

8.Avoid foreclosure-prevention scams. Some companies promising help charge exorbitant fees.

Where to go for help in metropolitan Phoenix

Arizona ACORN Housing, 602-253-1111

Chicanos Por La Causa, 602-253-0838

Community Housing Resources, 602-631-9780

Community Services of Arizona, 623-435-2255

Genesis Housing Services, 480-306-5161

Labors Community Service Agency, 602-263-0815

Housing Our Community, 480-649-1335

Neighborhood Housing Services, 602-258-1659/southwest Maricopa County 623-932-9077

Source: Arizona Department of Housing, www.housingaz.com.