Help is available
There are support services that can provide help, support and advice, if you have fallen behind on your mortgage repayments. They provide assistance under the Government funded Abhaile service – The National Mortgage Arrears Resolution Service.
Under the Abhaile service you can get free access to debt, financial, legal, or insolvency advice. If you are in mortgage arrears the Abhaile service will help you find the best solution depending on your circumstances, and keep you in your own home if possible.
A dedicated mortgage arrears adviser will work with you and your mortgage lender to find the best solution for your situation. It is important to know that your mortgage lender's last option should be repossessing your home. More information on the supports available are outlined below.
The Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS)
MABS is a free, independent, confidential and non-judgmental money advice and budgeting service. You can talk to MABS at any stage in the repossession process. However, the earlier you talk to MABS, the better they will be able to assist you.
Visit www.mabs.ie or call 0818 07 2000 for more information.
If you contact MABS they can:
- Help with conversations with your mortgage lender.
- Provide vouchers for you to see a Personal Insolvency Practitioner (PIP).
- Provide vouchers for legal or financial advisors free of charge via Abhaile.
- Support you before or after your court hearing.
If your case goes to court:
A MABS representative will be at court if your case is heard by a County Registrar.
- They act as a court mentor, providing information and support, but not legal advice.
- They wear ID badges and are available to answer questions.
- Information leaflets are also available at court.
MABS cannot give legal opinions or predict how your case will be handled.
Insolvency Service of Ireland (ISI)
The ISI helps with personal debt and repossession issues. You can talk to them at any stage of the process. The earlier you engage, the better they can help.
Visit www.backontrack.ie or call 01 764 4200 for more information.
If you contact ISI they can:
Refer you to a Personal Insolvency Practitioner (PIP) for a free consultation under Abhaile.
A PIP can:
- Advise on all available solutions.
- Negotiate with your mortgage lender.
- Speak on your behalf in some courts.
Legal Aid Board
The Legal Aid Board may be able to provide legal aid and advice. There are law centres around the country where you can get support.
Visit www.legalaidboard.ie or call 0818 615 200 for more information.
If you contact the Legal Aid Board they can:
- Provide solicitor consultation under the Abhaile scheme.
If your case goes to court:
- A duty solicitor may assist you in court and speak on your behalf.
A short animated video to help you understand the supports available
This helpful video provides more information on support services if you have fallen behind on your mortgage repayments.
Getting help
Information about legal advice, representation, and mediation to help you with your repossession case.
