Foreclosure assistance is available for people facing the possibility of losing their home through loan default. There are numerous state agencies devoted to foreclosure assistance. Some options involve working with the lender and others require an attorney. The options for avoiding foreclosure include: Loan Modification involves working with the lender to reduce the payment amount by lowering the interest rate; Loan Payment Deferment is working with a lender to defer payments which can offer temporary relief and halt foreclosure; Bankruptcy is a possible resort for some homeowners facing foreclosure and should be done in consultation with a bankruptcy attorney; A Short Sale is another option that might be best for some homeowners. This is selling the home at a discount price to escape a foreclosure. This option might require the approval of the lender and can take time to find a buyer; Government Assistance programs have been out in place for struggling homeowners.