The Government May Be Shut Down but Your Access to Home Equity Is Still Open
The government might be taking a break, but your access to home equity is not. As of October 1, 2025, a partial United States government shutdown has gone into effect, leaving some federal offices short-staffed, including the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Federal Housing Administration (FHA).
So what does this mean for homeowners with FHA-insured Home Equity Conversion Mortgages (HECMs), commonly known as reverse mortgages? Fortunately, not much at all.
If You Already Have a HECM
If you are already a HECM borrower, your reverse mortgage and line of credit will continue as usual. Your payments will not stop, and your access to available funds will remain intact.
While some paperwork that requires HUD review might move a little slower, essential processes like claims and loan servicing continue to operate under HUD’s contingency plan. In short, there is no reason to worry if you already have a reverse mortgage. Your loan remains protected and fully functional.
Why Home Equity Matters More Than Ever
A government shutdown may create uncertainty in the headlines, but your home equity remains one of your most reliable financial resources. For many retirees, home equity is their single largest asset — and using it wisely can provide stability, security, and peace of mind during times of economic or political turbulence.
Whether you are interested in paying off your existing mortgage, consolidating debt, or creating a financial cushion for the future, a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage can help you stay in control and maintain financial freedom.
The Bottom Line
While Washington may be on hold, your retirement plans do not have to be. If you would like to talk about your options or find out which reverse mortgage solution fits your situation best, contact Mark McVearry.
Visit ReverseMortgageAnswers.org or call 410-788-7070 to learn more about how a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage can help you stay in your home and live with greater financial confidence, no matter what is happening in Washington.
