How Does a Reverse Mortgage Work? A Plain-English Guide
How does a reverse mortgage work? Payout options, costs, protections, and the step-by-step process — explained in plain English.
Getting Started
Learn what a reverse mortgage is, how it works, and whether it might be right for you.
What Is a HECM? The FHA-Insured Reverse Mortgage, Explained
What is a HECM? Learn how the FHA-insured Home Equity Conversion Mortgage works, who qualifies, and the consumer protections built into it.
Reverse Mortgage Pros and Cons: An Honest Look
Weigh the reverse mortgage pros and cons — from no required monthly mortgage payment to a growing loan balance — and decide with confidence.
8 Reverse Mortgage Myths — Debunked
The truth behind 8 common reverse mortgage myths — who keeps the title, what heirs really owe, and the protections built into today's HECM.
Is a Reverse Mortgage Safe? The Protections Built Into Every HECM
Is a reverse mortgage safe? See the FHA and HUD protections behind today's HECM, the obligations you keep, and the red flags to avoid.
Understanding Eligibility
Decide whether now is the right time and learn how to move forward with clarity and confidence.
Reverse Mortgage Requirements: Who Qualifies (and Who Doesn’t)
Reverse mortgage requirements explained: age 62+, primary residence, equity, the financial assessment, and HUD counseling. See if you qualify.
How Much Can You Get From a Reverse Mortgage?
How much can you get from a reverse mortgage? The four factors that set your amount — age, home value, rates, mortgage payoff — and your payout options.
Can You Get a Reverse Mortgage on a Condo?
Yes, you can get a reverse mortgage on a condo. Learn how FHA project approval works, the single-unit option, and what your unit may qualify for.
Reverse Mortgages and the Non-Borrowing Spouse: Protections to Know
Non-borrowing spouse reverse mortgage protections: who qualifies, how the deferral period protects occupancy — and why loan payouts stop.
Jumbo Reverse Mortgages: Options Above the HECM Limit
Own a home worth more than the 2026 FHA limit? See how a jumbo reverse mortgage works, how it differs from a HECM, and whether it fits your plans.
Exploring Costs
Explore the costs, fees, and tax considerations involved so you can make smart financial decisions.
Reverse Mortgage Costs and Fees, Explained
A plain-English breakdown of reverse mortgage costs — origination fee, FHA mortgage insurance, closing costs — and how most can be financed into the loan.
How Reverse Mortgage Interest Rates Work: Fixed vs. Adjustable
How reverse mortgage interest rates work: fixed vs. adjustable, how rates affect what you can borrow, and the line of credit growth feature — explained.
Reverse Mortgages and Taxes: What Homeowners Should Know
Are reverse mortgage proceeds taxable? How reverse mortgage taxes really work — interest deductions, property taxes, and benefits — in plain English.
Reverse Mortgage Payment Options: Lump Sum, Monthly, or Line of Credit?
Compare reverse mortgage payment options — lump sum, monthly payments, line of credit, or a combination — and see which structure fits your retirement.
The Reverse Mortgage Line of Credit: How the Growth Feature Works
How a reverse mortgage line of credit works, why the unused portion grows over time, and how it compares to a HELOC for retirement flexibility.
Comparing Your Choices
Compare reverse mortgage products side by side so you can choose the option that fits your goals.
Reverse Mortgage vs. HELOC: Which Is Right in Retirement?
Reverse mortgage vs. HELOC, side by side: payments, access, repayment, and risk — plus honest guidance on when each one is the better fit.
Reverse Mortgage vs. Cash-Out Refinance in Retirement
Reverse mortgage vs cash out refinance: compare monthly payments, qualifying, costs, and payout options to see which fits your retirement budget.
Reverse Mortgage vs. Selling Your Home: How to Decide
Reverse mortgage vs selling your home: a fair side-by-side of staying or moving — equity, costs, monthly life, and heirs — to help you decide.
Alternatives to a Reverse Mortgage: An Honest Comparison
An honest look at alternatives to a reverse mortgage — HELOC, home equity loan, refinance, downsizing, tax relief, family help — and when each fits.
Buying a Home With a Reverse Mortgage: HECM for Purchase
HECM for Purchase lets buyers 62+ combine a down payment with reverse mortgage proceeds to buy a primary residence in one transaction. See how it works.
Managing Your Future
Learn how to manage your reverse mortgage loan and make the most of it over the long term.
What Happens to a Reverse Mortgage When You Die? A Guide for Heirs
What happens to a reverse mortgage when you die? Your heirs' three options, the 95% rule, and the protections that keep your family in control.
Does a Reverse Mortgage Affect Social Security or Medicare?
Reverse mortgage proceeds are loan advances, not income — so Social Security and Medicare aren't affected. Learn the one exception worth planning for.
Does a Reverse Mortgage Affect Medicaid? Needs-Based Benefits, Explained
How a reverse mortgage and Medicaid interact: why timing your draws matters, which benefits are affected, and who to consult before you decide.
How a Reverse Mortgage Fits Into Retirement Planning
How reverse mortgage retirement planning works: standby line of credit, monthly income, freed-up cash flow — plus the guardrails to keep in mind.
How to Spot and Avoid Reverse Mortgage Scams
Learn the red flags of reverse mortgage scams, how the legitimate process protects you, and exactly where to report suspicious offers (FTC, CFPB).
Beginning the Process
Know what to expect once you decide to move forward, from counseling through your application.
Reverse Mortgage Counseling: What to Expect (and Why It Protects You)
Reverse mortgage counseling is required before every HECM — and it protects you. What the HUD-approved session covers, how to schedule, how to prepare.
How Long Does a Reverse Mortgage Take? A Step-by-Step Timeline
How long does a reverse mortgage take? Many close in roughly 30-60 days. See the step-by-step timeline from counseling to funding — and what speeds it up.
Can You Refinance a Reverse Mortgage?
Can you refinance a reverse mortgage? Yes. Learn the common reasons, the built-in safeguards, and what the HECM-to-HECM process looks like.
How Do You Pay Back a Reverse Mortgage?
How do you pay back a reverse mortgage? Usually when the last borrower leaves the home — often through its sale. See your options and your heirs' choices.
Selling a House With a Reverse Mortgage: How It Works
Selling a house with a reverse mortgage is allowed anytime with no prepayment penalty. See how the payoff works and who keeps the remaining equity.
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Free Homeowner's Guide
The Reverse Mortgage Guide, in plain English
How it really works, who qualifies, and what it means for your heirs — free, no obligation.
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