A hardship letter is the most important piece of document required to apply for loan modification. Its substance and validity will make or break an attempt for a loan workout. This is a letter basically contains an explanation why there is a difficulty of settling mortgage amortization. It is only fitting to compose this letter carefully.

When writing a hardship letter, its important to remember to keep it short, concise but not arrogant. A one to two pages maximum letter is strongly advised. Take note that a lender does not have the luxury of time to read a novel-like hardship letter. This letter serves as outline of ones difficulty to pay for periodic amortization, so it should be direct.

Like any letter, begin with a proper salutation, use font type and size reasonably easier to read. Letter size or 8.5 by 11 inches will be the papers size; otherwise an A4 sized paper can be used.

Bear also in mind that there is a clear definition of the term “hardship” for availing loan modification. Such hardship should fall under listed by mortgage lenders. Such as bankruptcy of business, immediate relocation, or divorce from a spouse who is the co-borrower. There are still more to this, to be sure homeowners should check with their lender.

In the actual writing, the first sentence should tell why such letter is written. This may include the explanation that after all possible ways were exhausted theres still failure to meet with mortgage payments. Much of this should be in the first paragraph of the letter.

The second paragraph should describe the events that affected failure to make regular payments. This description should be done tastefully without being overly dramatic. Overly thought out explanation might appear deliberate and fake. Additional paragraph might be added to explain the intent for loan modification pursuant to financial difficulty.

It is also wise to give approximate, if not exact, duration of the hardship period. This will be the basis for the mortgage lenders to get a head start with its response for loan modification. The last paragraph should emphasize the desire to settle the loan, but asking for leeway, for the time being.

Then end the letter with parting words hoping for a loan modification, which will be favorable to both parties. It is also wise to mention about attachments to the hardship letter, which are proofs of financial difficulty claim.