How Many Late Payments Can I Make Before the Bank Starts Foreclosure?

Your ability to wait and make late payments depends on the lender and the terms of your mortgage. Strictly speaking, you will have defaulted on your mortgage as soon as you fail to make a payment on time. However, in most cases, your lender will give you a grace period (usually 15 days) during which you can make up for the default by repaying the installment you missed. After the grace period, if your lender provides one, you will begin to incur penalties. And if you fail to make your payment after 90 days of its due date, in most states the lender will be permitted to formally begin the foreclosure process to acquire and sell your house.