Stay Alert to Misleading Mail: Mortgage & Home Warranty Communications

You may occasionally receive letters or postcards referencing your mortgage or home-related services. While these communications can appear legitimate, they are often sent by companies that are not affiliated with your lender and are intended to prompt a response or payment.  

Signs to Watch For 

Use caution if a mailing includes: 

• Fine print disclosures that are easy to overlook 
• Documents that resemble invoices, vouchers or payment notices 
• Language that creates urgency or suggests immediate action is required 

These elements are intended to encourage quick decisions before verifying the source.  

Example Scenario 

A homeowner receives a letter labeled “Immediate Response Requested” with a detachable payment section. The notice references a home-related service, such as a home warranty, and indicates that action is needed to avoid a lapse in coverage or reinstate coverage. 

The homeowner calls the number listed and is told payment must be made promptly. During the call, they are asked to provide personal and/or financial information. 

What’s important to recognize: 

• A legitimate lender will not send unsolicited renewals or notices. 
• Legitimate lenders will not pressure you. 
• Whether the sender of the mailing is actually the homeowner’s mortgage provider. 
• If the mailing is a solicitation for optional services, not a requirement. 
• Providing payment or personal information may result in financial risk. 

How to Protect Yourself

✔ Verify independently 

Contact your lender using trusted contact information from your official statement or website.

✔ Confirm phone numbers 

Do not call numbers listed in the mailing — look up the correct number yourself and call directly. 

✔ Pause before taking action

Legitimate financial matters allow time to review and confirm details. Be skeptical of high-pressure tactics.

✔ Safeguard your information

Never share sensitive personal or financial details in response to unexpected contact.

✔ Dispose of materials securely

Discard suspicious mail and shred anything that contains personal information.

✔ Stay Informed, Stay Protected 

Approach all unsolicited mortgage-related communications with caution. A quick verification step can help prevent unnecessary risk and protect your financial well-being.

If you are a Farm Credit East customer and need assistance confirming a communication, please reach out using your established, trusted contact method.  

Pause. Verify. Protect your information.