Possible Relief From Mortgage 'Help' Scams

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recently mailed out a number of checks to homeowners and former homeowners who were damaged to varying extents (including loss of homes) by a rather nasty mortgage "assistance" scam that went on during and immediately before the recent recession. Over 17 thousand checks were mailed out, and, while they were by no means substantial, every little bit helps. Unlike othetr settlements I've written about covering losses of homes and related losses, many of which were for thousands of Dollars, these checks only attempt to allow scammed homeowners to recoup some, if not all, of the fees they were charged by the cheats running the scams. Typicaly, these fees were charged up front for alleged assistance in avoiding foreclosure or restructuring mortgages that were overwhelming the owners. The particular scam referred to here is the Residential Relief Foundation. It is now banned from offering 'mortgage relief' programs. As noted above, the money is small, as it only attempts to cover some of the upfront fees charged for the so-called assistance. Thus, each check is for $62.50. If you have any questions about your eligibility, contact the refund administrator, BMC Group, at (866) 224-6718, or visit www.FTC.gov/refunds for more general information. As always, Good Luck.