HB-2-3550

2. 1 INTRODUCTION

Once loan funds are fully disbursed, the loan is transferred to the Servicing and Asset 

Management Office (Servicing Office) for servicing, as described in Section 1 of this Chapter. 

While “servicing” can have connotations of special actions taken to deal with borrowers who 

are behind in their payments, the bulk of the loans serviced by the Servicing Office will be 

current loans that require normal day-to-day and year-to-year attention. The Servicing Office

undertakes a wide variety of regular servicing activities as discussed below.

• Handling payments and fees. Each month the Servicing Office must ensure that 

each borrower knows how much to pay and when the payment is due. The Servicing

Office must process the payment and credit it to the proper account. The Servicing 

Office also must assess fees for late payments and payments that do not clear.

Section 2 of this chapter describes policies for conducting these basic payment

collections and handling activities, including paper check processing through 

electronic funds transfer (EFT) as required by Check 21.

• Approving borrower actions. During the term of the loan, the borrower may

request permission to undertake actions that could affect the value of the security

property. Section 3 of this chapter describes these policies and working with the 

Field Office to act upon the borrower’s request.

• Reviewing escrow, taxes, and insurance. All borrowers are required to pay real

estate taxes and maintain acceptable hazard insurance and flood insurance, if

applicable. For borrowers with Agency escrow accounts, the Servicing Office is 

responsible for tracking the escrow funds and paying tax and insurance bills on behalf 

of the borrower. For borrowers who do not have escrow accounts, the Servicing 

Office must be prepared to act when the Agency learns that the borrower is not 

carrying out these obligations. Chapter 3 outlines the Agency’s policies for 

maintaining escrow accounts for taxes and insurance. Although this is a regular 

servicing activity, it is discussed in a separate chapter because of the technical nature 

of the information provided.

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Revised (03-31-21) SPECIAL PN

CHAPTER 2: REGULAR SERVICING
HB-2-3550

Paragraph 2.1 Introduction

• Assessing eligibility for payment subsidy. Borrowers who are receiving payment

assistance or interest credit subsidies must have their incomes reviewed annually to

ensure that they are receiving the appropriate amount of payment subsidy. In

addition, borrowers who are not receiving payment subsidy may request it if their

financial situation changes. Chapter 4 describes the Agency’s policies for annual 

reviews of a household’s income and for providing payment subsidies during the

course of the loan. Like handling escrow, taxes, and insurance, assessing eligibility 

for payment subsidy is generally a regular servicing activity, but the technical nature

of the discussion requires a separate chapter.

• Refinancing with private credit. Because Agency credit is not intended to replace

private credit sources, borrowers who have the means to obtain private financing are

required to do so. Every 2 years, the Field Office must review a borrower’s ability to

refinance with private credit. The Servicing Office’s role in facilitating the Field 

Office’s review is outlined in Section 4 of this chapter.

• Calculating recapture amounts. The Agency’s subsidy recapture policy requires 

borrowers to repay some or all of the subsidy received over the life of the loan. When 

borrowers pay off the principal and interest balance of their loan, subsidy recapture 

must be calculated and the borrower informed of the recapture amount. Borrowers 

can elect to defer recapture as long as they occupy the property as their permanent 

residence and do not transfer title. Upon ceasing to occupy the property or transfer of 

title, they will be required to repay the recapture within 60 days. If the recapture is 

not paid within 60 days, the account will be referred to the Foreclosure Unit to collect 

subsidy recapture due. Section 5 of this chapter describes the recapture policy and 

provides an explanation of the formula used to calculate the precise amount of 

recapture due.

• Deceased borrower. During the term of the loan, the Servicing Office may become

aware that a borrower is deceased. In these cases, the Servicing Office will contact 

the persons responsible for the deceased borrower’s estate to request a death 

certificate and legal documents showing appointment of a personal representative, 

administrator, or an executor. The Servicing Office will inform such persons of 

available servicing options, such as same rates and terms assumptions described in 

Section 3 of this Chapter, and service the account accordingly. In cases where there 

was a joint borrower and only one borrower is deceased, the loan servicing system 

will be coded to reflect the deceased borrower. No further servicing actions are 

necessary. When the Servicing Office determines that all borrowers associated with 

an account are deceased, the Servicing Office will code the account to reflect the 

deceased borrowers and determine if there is an open active loan or a recapture 

receivable account. If a recapture receivable account, the account will be referred to 

the Foreclosure Unit to recover the subsidy recapture due.

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Paragraph 2.1 Introduction

• Final payment. Section 6 of this chapter describes policies regarding how payoff 

amounts are calculated and provided to the borrower. It also covers how the Field

Office releases the security instruments and the Servicing Office processes the final 

payment.

• Servicing borrowers with both Rural Housing Service (RHS) and Farm Service

Agency (FSA) Farm Credit Program (FCP) loans. Through our predecessor 

Agency, the Farmers Home Administration, several loans were made to borrowers

who had agricultural and housing loans. The majority of these loans is crosscollateralized and described on the same mortgage deed of trust. Reorganization

shifted agricultural loans to the Farm Service Agency, another Agency within USDA.

Ownership of these loans is now divided between the two Agencies which requires 

that separate case files and servicing procedures be maintained. Attachment 2-C of

this Chapter provides guidance on how to handle servicing for these borrowers.

• Servicemembers Civil Relief Act of 2003 (SCRA). Formerly known as the

Soldier’s and Sailor’s Civil Relief Act of 1940 (SSCRA), this federal law gives 

military members certain rights when mobilized to active duty status. A major

benefit of SCRA is the ability to reduce pre-service consumer debt and mortgage

interest rates to 6 percent when a service member is called to active duty. The

difference between the full note rate and the 6 percent required under this Act is not 

subject to recapture. If a borrower qualifies for a payment subsidy after reduction to

6 percent, the amount of subsidy during this period of reduced interest rate would be

the difference between the payment subsidy and the 6 percent interest, not the full

note rate payment. To obtain a reduction to the 6 percent mortgage interest rate, the

borrower must submit a written request and a copy of their mobilization orders to:

USDA, Servicing and Asset 

Management Office FC-244 ATTN:

SCRA

P.O. Box 66818

St. Louis, MO 63166-6818 

FAX: (314) 457-4545

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SECTION 1: GETTING STARTED WITH NEW BORROWERS

2. 2 GETTING A BORROWER INTO THE SERVICING OFFICE SYSTEM

A. Types of Loans

All loans are originated at the Field Office. Borrowers receive either permanent or

construction loans, depending on when they will be able to occupy the property. As a result, 

funds are disbursed differently for permanent loans and construction loans.

• Permanent loan. Borrowers receive permanent loans if they can occupy

the property within 30 days. The funds are requested in a single advance 

and disbursed in full at closing. If funds for repairs are not fully disbursed

at loan closing, the undisbursed loan proceeds are deposited into an escrow account 

supervised by the closing agent, or into a supervised bank account and disbursed in 

accordance with RD Instruction 1902-A.

• Construction loan. Borrowers receive construction loans if the funds will be used to 

build a new dwelling or to undertake repairs that will prevent them from occupying 

the dwelling for more than 30 days. Funds for construction loans are disbursed in

multiple advances that begin to accrue daily simple interest at the borrower’s

Equivalent Interest Rate (EIR) as of disbursement. Because borrowers cannot afford

to repay the Agency loan while paying for other housing, payments are deferred

during the construction period. Once the construction is completed, the Loan

Originator adjusts the principal amount reflected on the borrower’s promissory note

to include the interest accrued during the construction period and amortizes the loan.

The loan is then converted from a construction loan to a permanent loan.

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HB-2-3550

Paragraph 2.2 Getting A Borrower Into The Servicing Office System

B. Loan Activation

Loans are passed on to the Servicing Office for servicing once loan funds are fully 

disbursed. To begin servicing a loan, the Servicing Office must obtain key information gathered 

or generated during the origination process. Basic applicant information used for closing the 

loan will be automatically uploaded to LoanServ from the local UniFi systems on a daily basis. 

This means that applicant information will be available on LoanServ before the loan is closed. 

The Loan Originator activates the loan in LoanServ on the day of loan closing as either a 

permanent or a construction loan. The Servicing Office begins servicing permanent loans 

immediately; construction loans are not serviced until they are converted to permanent loans.

C. Loan Docket

The Loan Originator provides the 

Servicing Office with a Loan Docket that 

contains copies of key documents for servicing 

legal documents and other documents that are 

not automated, such as the applicant's

insurance policy and Form RD 3550-15, Tax 

Information after all funds

have been fully disbursed. The Loan Originator should complete Form RD 3550-19,

Transmittal-Closing Documents, and attach copies of the required documents. The check

received for the escrow account also should be sent with the Loan Docket. For construction 

loans, the Loan Originator should not wait until the loan funds are fully disbursed to send the 

check for the escrow account, but should send it immediately after loan closing.

When the Loan Docket arrives, the Servicing Office must first ensure that all required 

documents are present. Then, the Servicing Office must scan them into LoanServ, verify that 

the information contained in the system is consistent with the loan documents, and enter any 

additional information not keyed in during the loan origination process. If there are any 

inconsistencies or missing documents, the Servicing Office will work with the Field Office to 

coordinate corrections or to obtain the missing documentation. For example, tax and insurance 

information used for the initial escrow calculations needed at closing will be entered into 

LoanServ by the Loan Originator, but Sthe Servicing Office will need to enter detailed 

information about taxing authorities and the insurance company into LoanServ. If the Loan 

Originator has mistakenly provided original documents, they should be returned to the Field 

Office for placement in the borrower’s case file.

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Loan Docket

Remember, the Field Office only provides

copies of the documents in the Loan Docket.

The originals are kept at the Field Office.
HB-2-3550

2. 3 INTRODUCING THE BORROWER TO THE SERVICING OFFICE

Throughout the origination process, the borrower’s only contact with the Agency is the 

Field Office. Once the loan funds are fully disbursed, the borrower needs to understand that 

the Servicing Office will be the primary contact.

The borrower’s transition from Field Office to the Servicing Office should begin at the 

Field Office level. During the applicant orientation, the Loan Originator should explain that the 

transition to the Servicing Office will take place after the funds are fully disbursed and instruct 

the borrower to direct all servicing-related communication to the Servicing Office.

Once the permanent loan is closed, the Servicing Office must contact the borrower in 

writing before the first billing statement to explain the role the Servicing Office will play and 

the Agency’s servicing policies, and provide the 1-800 numbers the borrower may need in the 

future. The borrower should receive this information before or with the first billing statement.

2. 4 WORKING WITH BORROWERS OVER THE LONG TERM

Part of the Agency’s mission is to provide supervised credit and counseling to help

borrowers succeed as homeowners. The Servicing Office’s rigorous system of follow ups and 

reminders for borrowers who are late with their payments is a key to enhancing the likelihood 

of success.

The quality of contact with borrowers who have difficulty keeping up with their

payments is as important as the frequency of those contacts. The Servicing Office must help 

borrowers understand the seriousness of making late mortgage payments and identify any 

special servicing actions that could aid borrowers experiencing particular difficulties.

The counseling effort hinges on the ability of the Servicing Office staff to work as a 

team. Because the borrower may speak with different representatives during each contact, notes 

in the borrower's file must be thorough and accurate so the next Servicer can avoid duplication 

of effort. The goal of thorough documentation is not developing large quantities of notes; 

rather, it is to ensure that any Servicer who picks up the file will be able to offer immediate

high-quality service to the borrower.

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SECTION 2: PAYMENTS AND FEES [7 CFR 3550.152 AND 3550.153]

2. 5 FREQUENCY OF PAYMENTS

Borrowers must make monthly payments unless the loan documents specify other

repayment terms. The borrower’s scheduled payment consists of principal, interest, taxes, and

insurance (PITI) for borrowers who have an escrow account, and principal and interest (PI) only 

for borrowers who do not have an escrow account. Payments are not credited to a borrower’s

account until the scheduled payment is received.

Some loans have annual payment terms that require the borrower to make a single annual

payment. Annual-pay borrowers may submit partial payments at any time during the year.

2. 6 PAYMENT METHOD

In general, borrowers make loan payments monthly, either through preauthorized debits

or in response to billing statements. Preauthorized debit is the preferred method, since payments

are automatically withdrawn from a borrower’s checking or savings account, which increases the

likelihood of receiving payments on time. If a borrower has multiple loans secured by a single

property, a single billing statement or debit will cover all payments due. Annual-pay borrowers

are not eligible for preauthorized debit.

A. Preauthorized Debit

Under the preauthorized debit payment method, payments are automatically withdrawn

from a borrower’s checking or savings account. After a borrower’s account has been debited, 

the borrower receives a statement, indicating the amount of the debit. An annual statement that

summarizes the total amount debited from the account also will be provided.

New borrowers can authorize preauthorized debit at loan closing. Existing borrowers can 

convert to preauthorized debit at any time, as long as their account is current but not ahead of

schedule. To activate a preauthorized debit, the borrower must complete Form SF-5510,

Authorized Agreement for Preauthorized Payments and attach a voided check if a checking

account is to be used or complete the bottom portion of Form SF-5510 if a savings account is to

be used.

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Revised (03-31-21) SPECIAL PN
HB-2-3550

Paragraph 2.6 Payment Method

When the Agency asks a bank to transfer funds from a borrower’s account under a

preauthorized debit, no transfer is made unless the scheduled payment amount is available in the

borrower’s account. If funds are not available, the borrower will be notified that payment must

be mailed to the lockbox, and if payment is not received at the lockbox within 15 days of the due

date, a late fee will be assessed.

B. Billing Statement

Billing statements are sent at least 2 weeks before payment is due to borrowers who are

not subject to preauthorized debit. The borrower sends the payment, along with the coupon

attached to the billing statement, to the lockbox address indicated on the statement. Borrowers

who pay on a monthly basis should receive a statement each month. Borrowers who pay

annually should receive a billing statement at least 2 weeks before the annual payment is due. If

an annual pay borrower makes a partial payment during the course of the year, the borrower

should be notified of the remaining amount owed.

C. Conversion from Annual to Monthly Payments

Annual-pay borrowers should be 

encouraged to convert to monthly payments and

may request conversion at any time. Whenever

a borrower’s payment schedule is converted

from an annual to monthly basis, the borrower

must agree to accrue interest on an amortized

schedule, and establish an escrow account.

Annual-pay borrowers must convert to a

monthly payment schedule, if the borrower has

monthly income or the ability to make monthly payments and:

• Obtains a subsequent loan;

• Requires any servicing action that results in reamortization of the loan or obtains new

payment subsidy; or

• Must establish an escrow account.

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Subsequent Loans

Whenever an annual borrower obtains a

subsequent loan to be repaid monthly, the Field

Office must inform the Servicing Office so

that the payment schedule on the existing loan

can be converted from an annual to a monthly

basis. Good communication between the Field

Office and the Servicing Office is vital to the

process.
HB-2-3550

Paragraph 2.6 Payment Method

Borrowers who are converted will be notified by the Servicing Office to

contact the local field office for an appointment to sign Form RD 3550-18, 

Reamortization Agreement. The Servicing Office will process the reamortization

and forward the original and a copy of the agreement to the field office with a letter 

outlining handling

instructions. The field office will provide a copy to the borrower and place the original in the 

borrower’s case file.

If the borrower is currently receiving subsidy, the Servicing Office will continue with 

the existing agreement unless it appears the borrower’s circumstances have changed sufficiently 

to process a new agreement.

2. 7 ACCEPTABLE FORMS OF PAYMENT

Acceptable forms of payment include checks, money orders, or bank drafts. Foreign

currency is not an acceptable form of payment. Cash payments are discouraged but must be

accepted. Any cash payment should be accompanied by a fee to cover the conversion to a

money order. If the borrower does not provide extra money for the conversion to a money order,

the conversion fee is deducted from the payment.

2. 8 LOCKBOX SERVICES

Borrower payments are received by a lockbox service which processes them on behalf of

the Agency. When the payment is received it is date-stamped. The lockbox service data captures

the payment information and the loan account number, endorses payment, prepares it for deposit,

records the payment amount, and downloads the information to an electronic file for the 

Servicing Office. If any excess, partial, or “miscellaneous” payments are received, the lockbox 

reports these to the Servicing Office, which is responsible for determining how the payment

should be handled.

A. Crediting Accounts at The Servicing Office

Once the Servicing Office receives payment information from the lockbox, the data is 

uploaded to LoanServ. The upload updates the accounts for which payments were received. If 

the amount received was less than the scheduled payment and the remainder is not received by 

the 15th day after the due date, LoanServ automatically assesses a late fee, which appears on the

borrower’s next statement.

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HB-2-3550

Paragraph 2.8 Lockbox Services

B. Payments Received at The Servicing Office

While most borrower payments are sent directly to the lockbox, funds occasionally arrive

at the Servicing Office. In the rare case that the Servicing Office does receive a borrower’s 

payment, the payment will be processed by the Servicing Office and forwarded to the lockbox 

for final processing. If the payment arrives at the Servicing Office more than 15 days after the 

due date, the borrower is responsible for the late fee.

Employees are personally accountable for losses that occur while funds are in their

custody. Exceptions can be made only when a loss occurs without fault or negligence on the part

of the employee. To avoid problems, all cash, checks, and money orders received at the 

Servicing Office will be recorded and secured immediately.

2. 9 IRREGULAR PAYMENTS

From time to time, borrowers submit payments that do not meet the definition of a

scheduled payment, such as partial or excess payments, or payments on a closed account. The

lockbox processes irregular payments and reports them to the Servicing Office. The payments

should be applied as described below.

A. Partial Payments

If a borrower makes a payment that is less than the scheduled payment, the payment is

held in suspense in the borrower’s account. Suspense means that the payment is deposited (for

example, check cashed), but not “credited” to the borrower’s account until an amount equal to

the scheduled payment is received. When subsequent payments are received in an amount

sufficient to equal a scheduled payment, the payment is applied.

1. Loans on an Annual Payment Schedule

Any partial payment made on an annual-pay loan is held in suspense until the full

payment is received. A letter is sent to the borrower, indicating the amount of the

payment received and the remaining balance.

2. Multiple Loans

When a borrower with multiple loans for the same property makes less than the

combined scheduled payment for all loans, the payment is applied when the scheduled

payment for the oldest loan is received. Additional payments are applied to the

borrower’s other loans in order of declining age.

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Paragraph 2.9 Irregular Payments

B. Excess Payments

When a payment in excess of the scheduled payment is received, it is applied first to any

outstanding fees or charges. Any additional funds should be used to reduce the principal 

balance. A borrower’s year-end statement must indicate how any excess payments were applied.

If a borrower wishes to prepay a scheduled installment, the payment must be for exactly

the scheduled amount and must be accompanied by an indication from the borrower that it is

intended as a payment rather than as a reduction of principal.

If the borrower makes excess payments that total 10 percent of the loan balance, or

excess loan funds from a construction loan total 2 percent of the loan balance, the borrower’s 

account may be reamortized to reduce the borrower’s monthly payment.

C. Payments on Closed Accounts

Occasionally, payments are made on accounts that are closed. When a payment is

received for an account that has been charged off or canceled as described in Section 3 of 

Chapter 7, the Agency accepts the payment and credits the appropriate account accordingly.

2. 10 FEES [7 CFR 3550.153]

The Agency will assess late fees and insufficient funds fees when appropriate. The fees 

will appear on the borrower’s next statement.

• Late fees equal to 4 percent of the principal and interest due are assessed for any 

scheduled payment not received at the lockbox by the 15th day

after the due date unless State law imposes other requirements.

• A $15 fee is assessed for checks returned for insufficient funds. 

This fee is in addition to any late fee.

In very limited circumstances, fees may be waived. A waiver may be

appropriate as a tool to encourage a borrower to agree to a delinquency workout 

agreement. A waiver also may be appropriate if a late payment fee is assessed due

to circumstances beyond the borrower’s control. The Servicing Office should 

follow consistent standards in determining when a waiver is appropriate. The 

reason for a waiver should be documented carefully.

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SECTION 3: BORROWER ACTIONS REQUIRINGAPPROVAL

[7 CFR 3550.159]

2. 11 OVERVIEW

A borrower must obtain approval from the Agency before taking actions that may affect

the security value of the property. Since these actions involve security property, they are 

handled in Field Offices. Key actions that require approval from the Agency include 

subordination, lease of mineral rights, partial release of security, lease of security property, and

assumption of indebtedness.

When the Servicing Office becomes aware of borrower actions requiring approval, they 

will refer the customer to the local Field Office and cue the Field Office regarding the 

borrower’s request. The Servicing Office will provide any information needed by the Field 

Office to process the request. Field Offices will approve or disapprove the actions outlined in 

this section and will cue the Servicing Office with the outcome.

This section first covers general guidelines and procedures for evaluating a borrower’s 

request for approval of an action, with the exception of assumptions of indebtedness. Specific

guidelines for each of the actions, including assumptions, follow the discussion of general

guidelines.

2. 12 GENERAL GUIDELINES

A. Reviewing Requests

To request approval for subordination, mineral leases, partial release of security, and

lease of security property, a borrower must submit Form RD 465-1, Application for Partial

Release, Subordination, or Consent, to the local Field Office. If the information provided is not

sufficient to allow for a thorough evaluation, the Field Office will request additional information

from the borrower. The Servicing Office may be cued by the Field Office, as necessary, to 

supplement the borrower’s information.

B. Obtaining an Appraisal and an Environmental Review

An appraisal is required for the Agency to subordinate its interests or to approve a partial 

release of security if the amount of consideration exceeds $5,000. The borrower must pay for

the appraisal, although the cost for an appraisal can be charged to the borrower’s account.

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Paragraph 2.12 General Guidelines

An existing appraisal may be used if it is less than 1 year old and appears to reflect market 

value. An Agency appraisal is not required if a lender is involved and can provide an appraisal that 

adequately reflects market value.

Actions requiring Agency approval of mineral leases are subject to the environmental 

requirements of RD Instruction 1970 series prior to approval.

C. Evaluating and Approving the Request

Once the information needed to evaluate the request has been submitted, the Field Office

must analyze the effect of the proposed action on the security property and document the

conclusions on Form RD 465-1. Some factors to consider in the analysis include:

• The market value of the property before and after the transaction;

• The physical effects of the action on the security property; and

• The assignment of initial and subsequent payment proceeds.

If the analysis indicates that the Agency’s security will not be put at risk by the action, an 

approval official in the Field Office may sign Form RD 465-1. The Office of General Counsel

(OGC) may need to provide relevant forms needed to complete the approval. Signed copies of

Form RD 465-1 should be distributed to the Servicing Office, the borrower and lender, as 

appropriate. The original should be maintained in the borrower’s case file at the Field Office.

D. Using Proceeds

Proceeds that arise from the sale of a portion of the security, granting an easement or

right-of-way, damage compensation, and all similar transactions should be used in the following

order.

• To pay customary and reasonable costs related to the transaction that must be paid by

the borrower, such as:

◊ Real estate taxes that must be paid to conclude the transaction;

◊ Cost of title examination, survey, abstract, and reasonable attorney’s fees; and

◊ Costs necessary to determine a reasonable price, such as appraisal of minerals,

when the necessary appraisal cannot be obtained without costs.

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Paragraph 2.12 General Guidelines

• To be applied on a prior lien debt, if any.

• To be applied to the Agency indebtedness or used for improvements to the

security property in keeping with the purposes and limitations applicable

for the use of Agency loan funds. Proposed development will be planned

and performed in accordance with RD Instruction 1924-A and supervised to ensure

that the proceeds are used as planned.

The use of proceeds should be reflected on Form RD 465-1 and agreed to by the

borrower and the Agency. Proceeds from the transaction to be applied to the Agency 

indebtedness will be remitted to the Cash Management Branch in the Servicing Office by Field 

Offices using Form RD 3550-17, Funds Transmittal Report, with Reason Code “00,” together 

with a brief statement as to the source of proceeds, a copy of Form RD 465-1, and any related

documentation. The Field Office will also notify the Servicing Office using Task 178, “Legal 

Description Correction.”

2. 13 SUBORDINATION [7 CFR 3550.159(b)]

The Agency will consider subordination of its lien position to allow a borrower to gain 

access to private sources of credit. Subordinations are generally handled by the Servicing 

Office. The most common type of subordination request will be when a borrower refinances

their Agency loan with private credit, and the borrower elects to defer payment of recapture. 

Field Offices are responsible for handling subordination requests in cases where the borrower is 

obtaining a subsequent loan for repairs or improvements to the property (not associated with 

refinancing). In cases where a borrower is refinancing, and has included in the refinancing 

package additional funds for repairs or improvements, the Servicing Office will coordinate such 

requests with the Field Office.

A. Criteria for Subordination

Requests for subordination can be 

approved if:

• The other lender verifies that the 

funds will be used for Agencyeligible purposes;

• Based on repayment ratios, the prior lien debt will be on terms and conditions that the

borrower can reasonably be expected to meet without jeopardizing repayment of the

Agency indebtedness;

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Nonprogram Borrowers

Subordination cannot be authorized for

nonprogram loans.
HB-2-3550

Paragraph 2.13 Subordination [7 CFR 3550.159(b)]

• Any proposed development will be planned and performed in accordance

with Agency construction standards, as described in RD Instruction

1924-A or directed by the other lender in a manner that is consistent with

that subpart; and

• The prior lien holder agrees in writing to provide at least 30 days prior written notice

to the Agency before initiating any foreclosure action on the prior lien.

To document that the subordination conforms to the Agency’s requirements, the

borrower should ask the other lender to provide the Agency with a memorandum that states the

purpose of the loan, along with its terms and conditions.

B. Amount of Subordination

The total amount of debt permitted when the Agency subordinates its interest depends on

whether the borrower pays off the Agency loan.

• Repay Agency loan but defer recapture. If the borrower will repay the loan and is 

requesting that the Agency subordinate only a deferred recapture amount, the prior

lien debt plus the deferred recapture amount must not exceed the market value of the

security. These cases are handled by the Servicing Office.

• Retain Agency loan. If the borrower is obtaining a subsequent loan from another 

source and will not pay off the Agency debt, the prior lien debt plus the unpaid 

balance on all Agency loans, exclusive of recapture, must not exceed the market

value of the security. These cases are handled by the Field Office.

2. 14 MINERAL LEASES [7 CFR 3550.159(a)]

Borrowers must obtain Agency authorization before leasing mineral

rights on their security property. Such requests are rare, but do occur in 

situations such as a property in a town located above a coal mine or a

property located on a water source. OGC should be involved in mineral lease decisions because

State and local laws vary. In addition, an environmental review is required in accordance with 

RD Instruction 1970 series, prior to approval. Subordination of an Agency loan to a mineral

lease does not entitle the leaseholder to any proceeds from the sale of the security property. If 

the lease of mineral rights is approved, rental proceeds not assigned to the Agency are treated as

income and any payment subsidy must be adjusted accordingly.

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Paragraph 2.14 Mineral Leases [7 CFR 3550.159(a)]

The Field Office will consent to the lease of mineral rights and the subordination of its

liens to the lessee’s rights and interests in the mineral activity if the security property will remain

suitable as a residence, and the Government’s security interest will not be adversely affected.

To make this determination, the Field Office must consider the effects of leasing on the

security property, including the potential for the lessee’s rights of surface entry on the property. 

They also must ensure that the property remains decent, safe, and sanitary and the value of the

security property is not decreased below the amount of the loan.

• No decrease in value. If the proposal is not likely to decrease the value of the

security property, the lease may be approved if the borrower agrees: (1) to use any

damage compensation received from the lessee to repair damage to the site or

dwelling; or (2) to assign it to the Agency to be applied to reduce principal.

• Likely decrease in value. If the proposed activity is likely to decrease the value of 

the security property, the Field Office may consent to the lease of mineral rights only

if: (1) the borrower assigns 100 percent of the lease income to the Agency to be

applied to reduce principal; and (2) the rent to be paid is at least equal to the 

estimated decrease in market value.

When an assignment of income is required, the borrower must submit

an assignment of income in a format that is designed to comply with State

law and approved by OGC.

2. 15 PARTIAL RELEASE OF SECURITY [7 CFR 3550.159(c)]

A borrower may request a partial release of security to accommodate a need to sell or

exchange part of the property or grant a right-of-way across the security property. For example,

the owner of an adjoining property may want to trade 10 feet of the side yard for 10 feet of the

back yard, or the local government may wish to purchase land that borders a highway slated for

widening.

The Agency may consent to transactions affecting the security and grant a partial release

of security if the following conditions are met.

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (08-29-19) PN 527

2-19
HB-2-3550

Paragraph 2.15 Partial Release of Security [7 CFR 3550.159(c)]

• The borrower will receive adequate compensation:

◊ The sale of any part of the security property must result in a payment equal to the

value of the security being released or rights granted;

◊ The exchange of security property must result in another parcel of property

acquired that has value equal to or greater than that being released; or

◊ The granting of an easement or right-of-way must result in benefits that are equal

to or greater than the value of the security property being released.

• The security property, after the transaction is completed, must be adequate, decent,

safe, and sanitary. For a program loan, the security after the transaction is completed

must also remain modest.

• Repayment of the Agency debt must not be jeopardized.

In accordance with RD Instruction 1970-A, 1970.8 (e), “servicing actions are directly related to financial 

assistance already provided, do not require separate NEPA review, and are not actions for the 

purposes of this part”. 

• .

To process a partial release, the Field Office must complete the following actions.

• Complete any required State release forms. The unrecorded documents will be uploaded to 

the imaging repository as “Loan Documents Class – Deeds of Trust Mortgages” as part of 

the borrower’s permanent record. The party requesting a partial release is responsible for 

recording costs.

• For an exchange of all or a portion of the security property, obtain title clearance for

the new security before the release of the existing security. Security instruments must

be obtained for the new property.

• For a sale of all or a portion of the security property, deliver the release when full 

payment is received.

• Update the legal descriptions of the property, as necessary.

2-20
HB-2-3550

Paragraph 2.15 Partial Release of Security [7 CFR 3550.159(c)]

The Field Office may approve, after notifying the Servicing Office of the approval, the 

following releases:

• Additional security. At any time prior to payment of the loan in full, the Agency

may authorize a release from the Agency’s lien any real estate taken as additional

security. This is authorized provided the market value of the remaining security is

adequate to secure the loan balance. Additional security does not include any part of 

the tract purchased with Section 502 loan funds or part of the minimum adequate site

on which the dwelling is located.

• Mutual Mistake. The Agency may authorize the release of property from the

Agency’s lien caused through mutual mistake when substantiated by facts and when

the Agency can determine, with the advice of OGC, that a mutual error existed at the

time the property was included in the security instrument.

• No evidence of indebtedness. The Agency’s lien may be released in situations

where there is no evidence of an existing secured indebtedness in the Field Office or 

in the Servicing Office. Before releasing the lien, the Field Office should consult 

with the Borrower Assistance Branch in the Servicing Office.

• Valueless Lien. In liquidation cases, if a net recovery valuation indicates the 

Agency’s lien is valueless (that is, there is no or a negative potential recovery), the 

lien may be released. The Field Office will contact the Borrower Assistance Branch

in the Servicing Office to ensure that taxes and insurance are no longer paid by the 

Agency, and a debt settlement package is sent to the borrower by the Servicing 

Office.

2. 16 LEASE OF SECURITY PROPERTY [7 CFR 3550.159(d)]

Program borrowers must notify the Agency if they lease the property. If the Agency

becomes aware of a borrower who is leasing their property, the borrower is not eligible for

payment subsidy or special servicing benefits during the period of the lease. Field Offices will

notify the Servicing Office, and provide any applicable documentation, if they become aware 

that a borrower has leased the security property. The Agency also should assess the borrower’s 

ability to refinance with private credit. If the lease is for a term of more than 3 years or contains 

an option to purchase, the Agency may liquidate the loan. Nonprogram borrowers are free to 

lease their properties without restriction.

2-21

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (03-31-21) SPECIAL PN
HB-2-3550

2. 17 ASSUMPTION OF INDEBTEDNESS [7 CFR 3550.163]

A. New Rates and Terms Assumptions

In most cases, Agency indebtedness is only assumed as part of a sale. In these situations

the debt is assumed on new rates and terms as part of loan origination and is handled by the Field

Office. Field Offices are authorized to release the former borrower from personal liability for the

amount of debt being assumed utilizing Form RD 3550-16, Release from Personal Liability. In

cases where the debt is not being assumed in full, the Servicing Office will handle the settlement

of the remaining debt and any release of liability for the portion of debt not being assumed.

B. Same Rates and Terms Assumptions

In certain limited cases, generally those involving transfers of title between family

members, a standard industry assumption is permitted. It is known in the Section 502 program

as a same rates and terms assumption. Same rates and terms assumptions are handled and

approved in the Field Office. Under this type of assumption, the loan is not reamortized and the

existing note terms, including the interest rate and the remaining repayment period, do not

change. If the account is past due at the time an assumption is executed, the Field Office will

refer the new owner to the Servicing Office. The account may be brought current by using any 

of the servicing methods discussed in Chapter 5 for which the new owner is eligible.

The new owner need not have a low or moderate income. However, payment subsidy

can be continued for the new owner only if he or she is eligible for assistance and only at the 

level for which the new household qualifies. If the transferee is a very low- or low-income

person, it may be more beneficial for the transferee to assume the loan under new rates and

terms. For example, if current interest rates are lower or a longer repayment period is necessary,

a new rates and terms assumption may be of benefit to the new owner. In those cases, if the new

owner applies and is program-eligible, the loan will be assumed under new rates and terms. In

cases where the assuming party has a moderate- or above moderate-income, the party will be

informed of the Agency’s refinancing requirements, and if applicable, the loan will be reviewed

for refinancing.

Same rates and terms assumptions are permitted for the following types of transfers:

• A transfer from the borrower to a spouse or children not resulting from the death of 

the borrower;

2-22
HB-2-3550

Paragraph 2.17 Assumption of Indebtedness [7 CFR 3550.163]

• A transfer to a relative, joint tenant, or tenant by the entirety resulting from the death 

of the borrower;

• A transfer to a spouse or ex-spouse resulting from a divorce decree, legal separation 

agreement, or property settlement agreement;

• A transfer to a person, other than a deceased borrower’s spouse, who wishes to 

assume the loan for the benefit of persons who were dependent on the deceased

borrower at the time of death, if the dwelling will be occupied by one or more persons

who were dependent on the borrower at the time of death and there is a reasonable

prospect of repayment;

• A transfer into an inter vivos trust in which the borrower does not transfer rights of 

occupancy in the property; and

• Any subsequent transfer of title, except upon death of the inheritor or between 

inheritors to consolidate title, will be treated as a sale.

C. Agency Approval

The due-on-sale clause contained in all Agency mortgages stipulates that the borrower

must obtain approval from the Agency before the title of a security property can be transferred

with an assumption of the indebtedness.

The Agency will approve a transfer of title and assumption of indebtedness if it is in the

best interest of the Government. The new owner will be liable for the loan, and the terms and

conditions of the assumption depend upon the eligibility of the new purchaser and the property’s

characteristics.

In most cases, if the borrower sells a security property with a due-on-sale clause without

obtaining prior authorization from the Agency, the assumption will not be approved and the loan

may be liquidated. If the Agency determines it is in the best interest of the Government to

continue the loan, the account will be serviced in the original borrower’s name, and the original

borrower will remain liable for the loan under the terms of the security instrument.

2-23

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (03-31-21) SPECIAL PN
HB-2-3550

Paragraph 2.17 Assumption of Indebtedness [7 CFR 3550.163]

A new owner who obtains property through a transaction eligible for a same rates and

terms assumption is not required to obtain Agency approval or assume the loan. The Agency is

not permitted to liquidate the loan if the new owner continues to make scheduled payments and

meets all other obligations of the loan. However, a new owner who does not assume the loan is

not eligible for payment assistance or a moratorium.

D. Procedural Requirements

The new owner must sign Form RD 3550-22, Assumption Agreement Single Family

Housing. For assumptions, the original note is not returned to the seller. Instead, the note is

filed with other original notes, with the original Form RD 3550-22 attached.

E. Releasing a Departing Borrower From Liability

Changes in household composition may trigger the need to adjust who is responsible for

repayment of the loan. The need for a change most often occurs when one party to the note

wishes to be released of liability. For example, after a divorce the departing spouse may wish to

be relieved of responsibility for the balance of the mortgage. The Agency will authorize such a

release only when:

• The divorce decree or property settlement document did not make the departing

borrower responsible for loan payments;

• The departing borrower’s interest in the security property is conveyed to the person 

with whom the loan will be continued; and

• The remaining borrower meets the maximum total debt ratio requirements and credit

history requirements or, the account has been current for at least six months.

Form RD 3550-16 is used to release the departing borrower from liability. The 

Servicing Office generally handles these releases, but may cue the Field Office for assistance.

The following items need to be submitted to apply for a release of liability:

1. A written request from the departing borrower to be released of liability;

2. New address and phone number of the departing borrower;

3. Divorce decree and property settlement (if applicable);

4. Recorded deed conveying ownership to the remaining borrower(s);

5. Financial Statement of remaining borrower;

6. Verification of all income sources (such as pay stubs, award letters, etc. as described in 

HB1, Chapter 3.15) for remaining borrower; and

7. Copy of latest Federal income tax return, including W2 form, for remaining borrower.

2-24
HB-2-3550

SECTION 4: REFINANCING WITH PRIVATE CREDIT [7 CFR 3550.160]

2. 18 OVERVIEW

The Agency’s loan programs are not intended to compete with or replace private credit

sources. To ensure that Section 502 loans are only used to assist borrowers unable to obtain 

credit from other sources, periodic reviews are conducted to determine borrowers’ ability to

refinance 100 percent of their Agency loans with private credit. This process was formerly

known as “graduation.” A borrower who fails to comply with requests for information to

determine their ability to refinance, or who fails to refinance upon request by the Agency, is in

default of the mortgage agreement and is subject to liquidation.

The Servicing Office staff determines whether a borrower is able to refinance with 

private credit and when a borrower will be reviewed. The Servicing Office will compile a list 

of borrowers and generate all appropriate letters to applicable borrowers pertaining to the 

refinance process. The Servicing Office will answer borrower inquiries and provide all payoffs 

and recapture information when requested. If a borrower fails to cooperate in this process, the 

Servicing Office may initiate acceleration of the account.

2. 19 SELECTING BORROWERS FOR REVIEW

A. Criteria

All Section 502 borrowers are considered for refinancing once every 2 years. The 

Servicing Office reviews the borrower’s payment history, and outstanding loan balance to 

determine whether they can possibly refinance with private credit. If there is a reasonable 

likelihood that a borrower will be able to refinance based on indicators available on LoanServ, 

the borrower is selected for further review.

A borrower’s ability to refinance may also be reviewed any time the Agency

becomes aware that a borrower’s circumstances have changed. Such change in

circumstances might include: an inheritance, a new job, or any other change that

might lead to a substantial increase in household income. The Agency must be

consistent when initiating reviews where information is obtained that indicates a possible change

in circumstances. The Servicing Office will initiate selection for a refinancing review based on 

the following criteria:

• Loan is active

• Program borrower

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (03-31-21) SPECIAL PN

2-25
HB-2-3550

Paragraph 2.19 Selecting Borrowers for Review [7 CFR 3550.160]

• Not under Servicemembers Civil Relief Act of 2003 (SCRA)

• Credit score equal to minimum used for loan origination

• Not a 504 loan

• Account not in foreclosure

• Account not in bankruptcy

• Account not on a Delinquency Workout Agreement

• No court action pending

• Not subject to approved adjustment action

• Account not on a moratorium

• Not a collection only account

• Principal balance equal to or more than $15,000

• Borrower is not over one month delinquent

• Account has not been delinquent more than once in the past 12 months

• Refinancing is not currently pending

• No reamortizations in the past two years

• 16 percent difference from original loan vs. unpaid principal and interest

• Full note or subsidized interest rate is two percent over 30-year fixed conventional rate

• Loan is not within 5 years of maturity

• Account is not in a county declared a disaster in the past 12 months

B. Subsequent Credit

If field staff is in the process of 

reviewing a borrower’s request for a 

subsequent loan when that borrower is 

selected for a refinancing review, the 

subsequent loan should be processed before 

initiating the review. If the review for the

subsequent loan shows that the borrower 

would be able to get private credit for the 

amount of the subsequent loan, the

borrower’s request for a subsequent loan should be denied. The refinancing review should then 

be initiated to determine the borrower’s ability to obtain credit to refinance the existing loan.

C. Subordination of Recapture

When a borrower refinances a Section 502 loan, recapture will be calculated. The

recapture may be paid at the time of refinancing, or if the borrower will continue to occupy the

property, the Agency may subordinate its interest in any deferred recapture amount to facilitate a

borrower’s efforts to refinance with private credit, as long as: (1) the total value of all secured

2-26

Subsequent Loan

Borrowers who have been asked to

refinance will not be considered for additional

credit until the refinancing issue is resolved,

unless additional assistance is necessary to

protect the Government’s interest in the

property.
HB-2-3550

Paragraph 2.19 Selecting Borrowers for Review

loans does not exceed the market value of the property; (2) the borrower continues to occupy the

property; and (3) title does not transfer. The amount to which the Agency’s loan may be

subordinated can include:

• The amount required to repay the

Agency debt, exclusive of 

recapture;

• Reasonable closing costs;

• Up to one percent of the loan 

amount for the lender’s loan

servicing costs; and

• The cost of any necessary repairs or improvements to the security property.

2.20 PROCESSING REQUEST TO REFINANCE

When a borrower is reviewed for refinancing and it appears they can refinance with

private credit, the Servicing Office will send Handbook Letter 111 (3550), Request for Borrower 

to Refinance With Private Credit to request that the borrower refinance with private credit within 

90 days from the date of the letter. This letter supplies the borrower with telephone numbers

necessary for obtaining payoff and subsidy recapture information. It also instructs borrowers 

who are unable to secure private credit to provide a rejection letter from at least one lender. The 

rejection letter should contain the following information:

• Lender’s name;

• Amount of the loan requested;

• Information the borrower provided to the lender regarding purpose of the loan; and

• Rates and terms offered by the lender, and specific reasons why credit was denied.

If the rejection letter is sufficient to document the borrower’s inability to refinance, the 

Servicing Office will send Handbook Letter 110 (3550), Notification that the Agency Will 

Continue With Loan, advising that the Agency will continue with the loan and the borrower’s 

ability to refinance will be reviewed again in 2 years.

2.21 UNCOOPERATIVE BORROWERS AND ACCELERATION

If the borrower fails to respond, the Servicing Office will send Handbook Letter 112 

(3550), Reminder Letter, 45 days after the initial letter is sent. This letter reminds the borrower 

of the 90-day deadline and warns them of violation of their security instruments for failure to 

respond. The Servicing Office may elect to contact these borrowers via a calling campaign to 

remind them of their obligation.

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (03-31-21) SPECIAL PN

2-27

SCRA OF 2003

The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act

requires that the difference between the full note

rate and the 6% required under this Act is not

subject to recapture.
HB-2-3550

Paragraph 2.21 Uncooperative Borrowers and Acceleration

During the 90-day refinancing review period, the borrower may contact the Servicing 

Office to provide financial information. The next appropriate action by the Servicing Office

depends on an analysis of the financial information provided.

• The borrower may not qualify for refinancing with a private lender based on their

credit report. In this case, Handbook Letter 110 (3550), Notification that the Agency

Will Continue With Loans, will be sent by the Servicing Office indicating that the 

Agency will continue with the loan and the borrower’s ability to refinance will be 

reviewed again in 2 years.

• If the borrower’s income and debt shows the potential to refinance depending on

current market conditions but the borrower fails to do so, Handbook Letter 113

(3550), Follow up Request for Borrower to Refinance With Private Credit, will be

sent to encourage the borrower to take advantage of refinancing opportunities. If the 

borrower fails to refinance or respond to the Servicing Office within the 90-day 

review period, Handbook Letter 114 (3550), Unresponsive, will be sent to further

encourage the borrower to refinance and to advise that the loan remains subject to 

refinancing.

2-28
HB-2-3550

Paragraph 2.21 Uncooperative Borrowers and Acceleration

SECTION 5: RECAPTURE [7 CFR 3550.162]

Many borrowers receive substantial amounts of payment subsidy over the course of their

loan repayment period. The Agency’s subsidy recapture policy is required by statute and is

designed to require borrowers to repay some or the entire subsidy received, yet provide

borrowers with the opportunity to realize a benefit from increased equity in their properties.

Borrowers who repay a loan are permitted to defer payment of the recapture amount as long as

they continue to occupy the property and retain title. Loans approved prior to October 1, 1979, 

are not subject to recapture unless they were assumed on new rates and terms after that date.

2. 22 TRIGGERING RECAPTURE

Once the principal and interest on a 

loan is paid in full, subsidy recapture must

be repaid whenever the borrower ceases to 

occupy the property or transfers title. 

When repayment of recapture is triggered, 

the Servicing Office will send a notification 

to inform the borrower of

the amount of recapture due. If the borrower’s current address cannot be located, the 

notification letter should be sent to the last known address. If the borrower does not pay the 

recapture amount within 60 days of the date of the notification letter, the account should be

referred for acceleration and foreclosure, regardless of

the amount of recapture owed.

A. Ceasing to Occupy the Property

Recapture will be collected when the 

borrower ceases to occupy the property. Ceases to 

occupy the property is defined as the borrower is no 

longer using the dwelling as their permanent 

residence. In cases where the borrower has elected 

to defer recapture, upon receipt of notice that the 

borrower may have vacated the property, the

Servicing Office will investigate to determine if all 

borrowers associated with the recapture account 

have ceased to occupy the property. If it is 

determined that all borrowers cease to occupy the 

property, the foreclosure process will begin to 

recover the recapture due. If the property is 

temporarily unoccupied for reasons that are 

acceptable to the Agency recapture is not triggered.

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (03-31-21) SPECIAL PN

2-29

The Servicing Office may become

aware of rented or vacated property

by:

• Borrower notice to the Servicing 

Office

• Field Office referral

• Completed change of address form

• Returned mail

• Insurance policies

• Tax notices

SCRA OF 2003

The Servicemembers Civil Relief Act

requires that the difference between the full note

rate and the 6% required under this Act is not

subject to recapture.
HB-2-3550

Paragraph 2.22 Triggering Recapture

B. Deceased Borrowers

During the term of the loan, the Servicing Office may become aware that a borrower is 

deceased. In these cases, the Servicing Office will contact the persons responsible for the 

deceased borrower’s estate to request a death certificate and legal documents showing 

appointment of a personal representative, administrator, or estate. The Servicing Office will 

inform such persons of available servicing options, such as a same rates and terms 

assumption as described in Section 3 of this chapter. The Servicing Office will also open a 

task to the field office to notify receipt of the deceased borrow information.

In cases where there is a joint borrower and only one borrower is deceased, the Servicing 

Office will code the account to reflect the deceased borrower. No further servicing actions 

are necessary.

When the Servicing Office determines that all borrowers associated with an account are 

deceased, the Servicing Office will code the account to reflect the deceased borrowers and 

determine if there is an open active loan or a recapture receivable account. If a recapture 

receivable account, the account will be referred to the Foreclosure Unit to recover the 

subsidy recapture due.

C. Transferring Title

Recapture is usually triggered when the borrower transfers title. However, the way in 

which title is transferred can affect the recapture rules.

Cash sale. If the purchaser is not obtaining a loan from the Agency, the recapture amount will be paid by 

the seller.

• Assumed loan, new rates and terms. When a loan subject to recapture is assumed

under new rates and terms, the recapture amount will either be paid by the seller or

assumed by the purchaser. If the recapture amount is assumed, it will be capitalized

so that it will accrue interest.

• Deferred subsidy amount only. When a borrower repays an Agency loan, exclusive

of recapture, the deferred recapture amount may later be assumed by a purchaser who

obtains Agency financing. If the purchaser does not obtain Agency financing, the

deferred subsidy amount must be paid in full.

• Assumed loan, same rates and terms. When a loan subject to recapture is assumed

under the same rates and terms, recapture will not be calculated or collected. When the

new borrower transfers title or ceases to occupy the property, all subsidy subject to 

recapture before and after the assumption is due.

2-30
HB-2-3550

Paragraph 2.23 Calculating Recapture Owed

2.23 CALCULATING RECAPTURE OWED

The recapture calculation is automated. However, it is important for Servicers to

understand the recapture calculation well enough to be able to explain it to borrowers who have 

questions. Attachment 2-A contains a Final Payoff Worksheet to illustrate how the final payoff 

amount, including recapture, is calculated for cases other than foreclosure and deed in lieu of 

foreclosure. Attachment 2-B contains a case study that illustrates the recapture concepts discussed 

in this section.

A. Recapture Formulas

Generally, the amount to be recaptured is determined by a calculation specified in the 

borrower’s subsidy repayment agreement and is based on the borrower’s equity in the property 

at the time of loan pay off. The recapture calculation includes the amount of Principal 

Reduction Attributed to Subsidy (PRAS) (applicable only to certain loans that received interest 

credit between October 1, 1979 and December 31, 1989), plus the lesser of:

• The amount of subsidy received, including all payment subsidy and

deferred mortgage assistance; or

• The portion of value appreciation in the property subject to recapture.

If there is no equity based on the recapture calculation, the amount of PRAS is not 

collected.

However, in the case of foreclosure or deed in lieu of foreclosure, the amount to be

recaptured is the full amount of subsidy received, not including PRAS. The recapture amount is 

only recoverable from the security property, not as a personal liability of the borrower.

In the case of foreclosure or deed in lieu of foreclosure sale, the funds received are 

applied or credited to the borrower’s debt in accordance with the security agreement in the

following order:

Recoverable costs (e.g. protective advances, foreclosure costs, negative escrow, late 

charges)

Accrued interest Principal

Subsidy (excluding PRAS).

B. Principal Reduction Attributable to Subsidy

Principal Reduction Attributable to Subsidy (PRAS) accrued on all Section 502 loans that

were subject to recapture that were approved, and received interest credit, between October 1, 1979 

and December 31, 1989. During this period subsidy (interest credit) was applied by reducing the 

effective interest rate. Because payments were applied at an interest rate below the Promissory

Note interest rate, principal pay down was accelerated. PRAS is the difference between the actual 

principal balance and what the principal would have been had all payments been applied at the note 

rate. Because PRAS is directly attributable to subsidy, it is subject to recapture. PRAS continued to 

increase every month even after subsidy was no longer received. This occurred because the 

borrower was paying full note rate interest on a smaller principal

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (03-09-22) SPECIAL PN

2-31
HB-2-3550

balance due to accelerated reduction in principal. Each subsequent payment resulted in a

higher amount being applied to principal than if loan had never been subsidized. PRAS 

stopped accumulating on loans after December 1996. After subsidy was cancelled, PRAS 

could exceed the subsidy granted as there was always some principal reduction attributed to 

subsidy. The effect was greater on loans where subsidy was cancelled early in the loan and the 

loan continued at note rate for several years. At the end of the loan term, the system evens out 

the payments so that none of the principal reduction is due to subsidy. The system

automatically begins to reduce the amount of PRAS after the loan is 15 years old. Loans made

since January 1, 1990 do not have PRAS because the Agency changed the method of applying 

subsidy to loans.

C. Value Appreciation

As mentioned, recapture, in cases other than foreclosure and deed in lieu of foreclosure, 

is PRAS plus the lesser of either the subsidy received or a portion of the value appreciation of 

the property subject to recapture. In order for the value appreciation to be calculated, the 

borrower will provide a current appraisal, including an appraisal for any capital improvements, 

or arm’s length sales contract as evidence of market value upon Agency request. 

"Appreciation" is generally construed to mean the difference between the value of the property 

when it was purchased and its current market value. “Value Appreciation” for the purposes of 

recapture is calculated with a specific formula that accounts for the borrower’s mortgage debt, 

settlement costs, and equity. Exhibit 2-1 provides the basic value appreciation formula

contained in Part 1 of the Final Payoff Worksheet provided in Attachment 2-A. The following 

paragraphs explain each element of the formula. This formula does not apply to cases of 

foreclosure and deed in lieu of foreclosure.

 

2-32

Exhibit 2-1

Calculation of Portion of Value Appreciation

Current Market Value

LESS:

Original amount of prior liens and subordinate affordable housing products Balance to be paid off on

RHS loans

Equity recapture due from Farmer Loan Program (FLP) loan (if applicable) Reasonable settlement

costs

Principal reduction at note rate

Principal Reduction Attributable to Subsidy (PRAS) (if applicable) Original equity

Capital improvements(if applicable)

EQUALS:

Value Appreciation (If this is a positive value, continue. If this is a negative value or “$0”, there is no recapture due.)

TIMES:

Percentage of outstanding balance of open loans (if applicable) RecapturePercentage

Return on borrower’s original equity

EQUALS:

Portion of Value Appreciation subject to recapture
HB-2-3550

Paragraph 2.23 Calculating Recapture Owed

1. Current Market Value

Value Appreciation is derived from the current market value of the property, whether it is

being sold or not. The amount of recapture to be collected can only be reduced based on the

Value Appreciation formula if the Agency has an accurate assessment of market value.

There are different methods of determining the market value. If a borrower requests a

final payoff statement before making a final payment, the borrower is responsible for

providing a current appraisal or arm’s length sales contract. The Agency will use either of

those to determine the market value and issue a final payoff statement, which will include the

recapture amount.

If the borrower does not contact the Agency before making a final payment (which will

likely not include the recapture amount), the Agency must determine the market value from

an appraisal conducted by or for the Agency, an appraisal conducted by or for another lender, 

assessed value, tax records, or other reliable evidence. A broker’s price opinion is not 

acceptable.

2. Original Amount of Prior Liens and Subordinate Affordable Housing Products

Original amount of the prior liens and subordinate affordable housing products (grants,

silent mortgages, forgivable loans, Community Land Trusts, etc.) that supplemented the

Agency loan at the time of initial property acquisition and were used in determining original

equity on the signed Form RD 3550-12.

3. Balance to be Paid Off on Agency Loans

All amounts owed to the Agency that are being paid off, including principal and

interest, late fees, insufficient funds fees, protective advances, and unauthorized 

assistance. These amounts are available in the FiServ loan servicing system.

4. Equity Recapture Due from Farm Loan Program Loan (if applicable)

In rare cases, a borrower who previously had an FLP loan that was accelerated may have

applied equity in the home to the farm debt. In such situations, the equity applied to the FLP

loan must be included in the recapture calculation.

5. Reasonable Settlement Costs

Reasonable and actual settlement costs incurred in selling or refinancing the property that

are directly paid by the borrower without reimbursement from another party and are

customary and typical for the type of transaction. Anticipated settlement costs for future

transactions are not permissible.

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (08-29-19) PN-527

2-33
HB-2-3550

Paragraph 2.23 Calculating Recapture Owed

6. Principal Reductions

(a) Principal reduction at note rate is the amount of RHS loan principal paid by the

borrower to date. This does not include principal payments that are attributed to the

payment assistance subsidy.

(b) PRAS is described in section 2.23(B).

7. Original Equity

Original equity, which is found on Form RD 3550-12, is calculated using the market value

at the time of loan approval/obligation for both new and existing properties. Prepaid taxes and

insurance are not considered original equity, nor are contributions toward settlement costs.

Original equity is the market value of the property at the time of original loan approval less

prior liens, Rural Housing Service loans, and subordinate affordable housing products. For 

determining original equity, the definition of market value for Self-Help Loans is the

appraised value as determined at the time of loan approval/obligation which is subject to

completion per plans and specifications. For all other transactions (purchase with/without

repairs/improvements, refinance with/without repairs/improvements, or new construction),

the market value is defined as the lower of the purchase price, construction cost, or appraised

value (as-is or as-improved, whichever is applicable) as determined at the time of loan

approval/obligation.

8. Capital Improvements

Borrowers must identify any capital improvements in order to receive a credit for them. The

value of a capital improvement will be determined by an appraiser based on the change in the

property’s value attributable to the improvement. The cost of making the improvement will not

be considered when making this assessment. Borrowers who wish to receive credit for capital

improvements will specifically request that the appraiser provide this service when the borrower

or Agency obtains an appraisal for determining recapture.

2-34
HB-2-3550

Paragraph 2.23 Calculating Recapture Owed

9. Amount Due if There is No Value Appreciation

If Part I of the Final Payoff Worksheet, Attachment 2-A, indicates that there has been no

value appreciation, the amount due will be the amount of the loan to be repaid, and, if

applicable, the amount of any equity recapture due from an FLP loan. Part II of the Final 

Payoff Worksheet, Attachment 2-A, provides a formula for this calculation.

10. Percentage of Outstanding Balance of Loans (Percentage of Total Debt Subject to 

Recapture to be Paid-Off)

Part III of the Final Payoff Worksheet, Attachment 2-A, is designed to recapture value

appreciation in proportion to the size of the loan or loans subject to recapture. Loans not subject 

to recapture are not considered in the recapture calculation. For example, if the Agency loan to

be repaid accounts for 75 percent of the balance of all loans on the property, recapture would be 

calculated on only 75 percent of the value appreciation in the property. The formula for

determining the percentage of the value appreciation attributable to loans subject to recapture is:

Balance of loans subject to recapture being paid off

Balance of all open (including leveraged) loans

11. Recapture Percentage

Recapture percentage is determined by the number of months the loan has been outstanding

and the average subsidized interest rate paid over the years. If more than one loan is being paid

off, the recapture percentage is determined by a weighted average interest factor.

12. Return on Borrower’s Equity

Return on the borrower’s equity is the difference between 100 percent and percent of 

borrower’s original equity.

13. Portion of Value Appreciation Subject to Recapture

Part IV of the Final Payoff Worksheet, Attachment 2-A, calculates the amount of value

appreciation to be recaptured based on a recapture factor. The percentage of value appreciation 

that is recaptured ranges from 9 to 50 percent, depending on the number of months the loan has

been outstanding and the average subsidized interest rate the borrower has paid over the years. In 

addition, borrowers are given credit for their original equity as a percentage of original

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (08-12-21) SPECIAL PN

2-35
HB-2-3550

Paragraph 2.23 Calculating Recapture Owed

market value by multiplying the Value Appreciation by that percentage. Form RD 3550-12

specifies the percentage of original equity.

14. Amount Due if There is Value Appreciation

Part V of the Final Payoff Worksheet, Attachment 2-A, is designed to combine all costs

the borrower must repay into a single payoff amount. This amount begins with the amount of

the Agency loan or loans to be repaid. It also includes any FLP equity recapture, any PRAS, 

plus the lesser of the amount of subsidy received, or the Portion of the Value Appreciation

subject to recapture.

2.24 COLLECTING RECAPTURE INFORMATION

Subsidy Recapture is calculated upon request for a final payoff amount, or when an

account is paid in full (exclusive of recapture). In most cases a borrower who wishes to pay off

their loan will contact the Servicing Office and request a payoff statement. Initially a statement 

of loan balance is sent instructing the borrower to provide certain documentation including an

appraisal or an arm’s length sales contract to calculate the amount of subsidy recapture due. 

Upon receipt of the documentation the Servicing Office will calculate recapture due and issue a 

final payoff statement.

In the majority of cases the field offices have no involvement in this process.

A. Payoff With Final Payoff Statement

A final payoff statement including subsidy recapture will be issued by the Servicing 

Office upon receipt of the following items:

• Payoff date. The amount of subsidy received will vary depending on the

date the loan is paid off.

• Market value of the property. The market value of the property on the

payoff date must be documented by an arm’s length sales contract or a current

appraisal meeting Agency appraisal standards. A Broker’s Price Opinion is not

acceptable.

2-36
HB-2-3550

Paragraph 2.24 Collecting Recapture Information

• Added value of capital improvements. A borrower will ask the appraiser to 

document the portion of any increase in the property’s value attributable to capital

improvements in a separate Addendum to the appraisal. The Addendum will

itemize the capital improvement made. Receipts cannot be used to determine the

value of the improvements but may be valuable in ascertaining what improvements

were made by the borrower. No credit for capital improvements will be given

without an appraisal documenting the value of the capital improvements.

• Estimated settlement statement. A borrower who is refinancing will receive 

credit for settlement costs, which are reasonable and customary in the area, if they

are documented by a good faith estimate provided by the lender or an estimated

settlement statement provided by the closing agent. A borrower who is selling their

house will receive credit for settlement costs, which are reasonable and customary

in the area, if they are documented by an estimated settlement statement provided

by the closing agent. The documentation must itemize costs paid by the borrower.

An estimate from a real estate agent is not acceptable in either situation.

B. Payoff Without Contacting the Servicing Office for a Final Payoff 

Statement, or Final Installment Payment

For borrowers that pay off their loan (regardless of why the loan is being paid off), 

without contacting the Servicing Office or the field office for a payoff statement, a 

“Congratulations” letter is sent from the Servicing Office informing them of the total 

amount of subsidy received along with instructions for calculating the actual subsidy 

recapture due. In these situations, the Agency is responsible for determining the market

value for purposes of calculating subsidy recapture and the Servicing Office will request 

assistance from the field offices to determine the market value. Market value will be 

determined by an appraisal, an arm’s length sales contract, assessed value, tax records, or 

other reliable evidence. If an appraisal is necessary, the costs associated with obtaining an 

appraisal will be paid by the Agency. If the borrower disagrees with the Agency’s 

valuation, the borrower may provide their own appraisal for consideration meeting Agency 

standards.

1. Determining Market Value

States vary in the methods used for obtaining appraisals; some use contract appraisers,

others do their own appraisals. An abbreviated or limited appraisal (shows the market

comparison only) or assessed value may also be used if the field office believes that it accurately

reflects the market value of the property. If an assessed value is used, a copy of the assessment

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (03-31-21) SPECIAL PN

2-37
HB-2-3550

Paragraph 2.24 Collecting Recapture Information

 and a written statement from the field office indicating the assessed value and that it accurately

reflects the market value should be provided to the Servicing Office. Either process is 

acceptable based on whatever is appropriate for the state.

If capital improvements are to be considered an appraisal and an addendum to the

appraisal is required. The addendum must be completed by an appraiser and should include an

itemization of the added value for each capital improvement.

If an outside appraisal is needed, the Agency will incur the costs and the borrower will 

not be charged an appraisal fee. Costs associated with obtaining an appraisal in these instances 

will be paid from Program Loan Costs Funds using the “Direct Loan Financing Account” 

(R funds) and code “S2B1” including the borrower’s account number.

2. Borrower Notification – Servicing Office and Field Office Interface

When the Servicing Office becomes aware that an account has paid off and recapture 

has not been calculated, they will task the field using task #590 P & I PIF/Recap Receivable

Established. DO NOT RELEASE THE SECURITY INSTRUMENTS. The expiration timeframe

will be 60 days. At the same time, task #589 Early Payoff Notification will be sent to the state 

office queue. The expiration timeframe will be 45 days to allow for follow-up before the 60 

days expire. This will be an indication that the “Congratulations” letter has been sent from the 

Servicing Office and that the field should begin the process to have the market value 

established. An appraisal/evaluation should not be completed until the borrower has been given 

the opportunity to provide information about whether they are seeking credit for capital 

improvements. If the borrower does not reply within 15 days the field office can proceed in 

obtaining an appraisal/valuation of the property. Field offices should establish a “tickler” for 

the capital improvements form or contact the borrower directly for this information. The field 

office will have a total of 60 days to provide the market valuation to the Servicing Office.

Once market value is determined, a request for calculation of recapture should be faxed to the 

Payoff Unit at 314- 457-4433. The information faxed to the Servicing Office should include a 

cover letter stating the purpose of the request, a contact person, fax and phone number, and a 

copy of all supporting documents.

2-38
HB-2-3550

Paragraph 2.24 Collecting Recapture Information

The Servicing Office will calculate recapture due and send a letter to the borrower 

giving 120 days to either pay the recapture amount owed, or defer payment. If the recapture 

is paid within 120 days and the borrower retains title and continues to occupy the property, 

the borrower will receive a 25% discount. The Servicing Office will also fax a copy of the 

letter to the field office. The case file should be marked as a recapture receivable account. If 

the borrower pays the recapture amount due in full, the field office will get the standard 

queue to prepare the release of lien.

2.25 DEFERRING PAYMENT OF RECAPTURE

A borrower who repays a loan has the option of deferring payment of recapture as long

as title does not transfer, and the borrower continues to occupy the property. Deferring 

payment of recapture typically occurs when a borrower refinances an Agency loan with private 

credit or pays the last loan installment.

If the borrower defers payment of recapture, an interest-free recapture receivable

account must be established. The recapture receivable is not due unless the borrower ceases to

occupy the property or transfers title, but payment may be made at any time. The Servicing 

Office must provide an annual statement indicating the unpaid recapture amount.

A. Refinancing with Private Credit

The Agency will subordinate its interests during the deferral to allow the borrower to 

refinance with private credit if the total amount of the proposed prior lien debt plus the

recapture amount is less than or equal to the market value of the property. The amount to which

the remaining Agency debt can be subordinated cannot exceed the total of: the amount required

to repay the Agency debt, exclusive of recapture, reasonable settlement costs, up to 1 percent of

the loan amount for servicing costs if required by lender, and the cost of any necessary repairs

or improvements to the security property.

B. Incentive to Pay Recapture

It is to the Agency’s advantage to reduce the number of recapture receivable accounts

that must be tracked over the long term. As an incentive to encourage certain borrowers not to

defer recapture, a 25 percent discount may be offered. The discount may only be offered to

borrowers who are retaining title to the property and will continue to occupy the house. This 

generally occurs when the borrower is refinancing with private credit. The discount is not

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (03-31-21) SPECIAL PN

2-39
HB-2-3550

Paragraph 2.25 Deferring Payment of Recapture

available for borrowers who sell their homes, transfer title, or no longer occupy the property. In

cases where the recapture is triggered by the final installment payment or when the payoff was

sent without contacting the Servicing Office for a final payoff statement, the borrower will have

120 days from the day of receipt of the letter that informs them of the recapture amount to

receive the 25 percent discount.

2.26 TRUST ACCOUNTS

A small number of former Agency loans that were sold to the Trust in the 1987 rural

housing asset sale are no longer serviced by the Agency but are still subject to recapture. The 

Trust will work with their borrowers to calculate and collect recapture amounts. If a Trust

borrower wishes to defer recapture payment, the account must be reassigned to the Agency.

Once the Trust has reassigned the security instrument and note, and indicated the recapture

amount, the Servicing Office can establish a receivable account. The Servicing Office should 

send the original reassigned security instrument and note to the appropriate Field Office with 

instructions to record the reassigned security instrument. Any costs associated with recordation 

are

Non-recoverable.

2-40
HB-2-3550

Paragraph 2.27 Final Payments

SECTION 6: FINALPAYMENTS[7 CFR 3550.161]

2. 27 FINAL PAYMENT AMOUNT

A borrower’s account cannot be closed until the Agency receives payment in full.

The final payment amount consists of:

• Outstanding account balance, including unpaid principal and interest, fees, 

charges, and any protective advances, FLP equity recapture, and unauthorized 

assistance; and

• Recapture, as calculated in accordance with Section 5, Paragraph 2.23. 

Borrowers with loans approved before October 1, 1979, are not subject to subsidy 

recapture.

Even if the borrower repays the full outstanding account balance, the account is not 

considered paid in full until recapture is paid. In cases where the Agency agrees to debt 

settlement as described in Section 3 of Chapter 7, the account will be considered satisfied when

the settlement amount agreed to by the Agency is repaid.

Any funds remaining in a borrower’s escrow account and any supervised bank account

funds will be returned to the borrower separately.

2. 28 PAYOFF STATEMENTS

Before paying the final payment amount due on a loan, the borrower should obtain a

payoff statement from the Servicing Office. The person requesting the statement need not 

be the borrower as long as the borrower provides written authorization for the request. 

Written authorization is not needed from financial institutions or its agents as long as they 

can provide the borrower’s social security number and account number. The Servicing 

Office will send a written statement to the requester (with a copy to the borrower, if the 

requester is someone other than the borrower, such as a real estate agent or lender). The 

Servicing Office will never provide a final payoff amount over the telephone. All final 

payment amounts must be provided through payoff statements.

Field Offices can request a payoff by completing Attachment 13-A contained in the Field

Office Handbook (HB-1-3550). The attachment is faxed to the Payoff Section in the Servicing 

Office or payoffs may be requested by the Field Offices calling the 1-800 number.

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (03-31-21) SPECIAL PN

2-41
HB-2-3550

Paragraph 2.28 Payoff Statements

Because the exact amount of the final payment is contingent upon the date final

payment is received and the amount of recapture that must be paid, the Servicing Office

will not be able to give an accurate payoff amount without specific information from the 

borrower. For this reason, two types of payoff statements will be provided.

A. Statement of Loan Balance

The statement of loan balance provides the current outstanding balances of the loan,

which includes principal, interest, fees, late charges, and escrow (if applicable). The statement

also includes the total amount of subsidy (including PRAS) granted over the life of the loan.

The statement instructs the borrower to provide certain documentation including an appraisal

or an arm’s length sales contract to calculate the amount of recapture due.

B. Final Payoff Statement

The final payoff statement is based on the anticipated account balance at the proposed

payoff date and the recapture amount calculated with whatever information has been provided by

the borrower. This statement indicates the actual amount the borrower will be required to repay

on the proposed payoff date.

Upon receipt of written confirmation of the information needed to calculate

recapture, the Servicing Office will generate a final payoff statement and send it to the 

borrower. The statement will instruct the borrower where to send the final payment. If the 

borrower subsequently provides updated information (for example, a revised final payoff 

date or documentation of additional settlement costs) a new final payoff statement should 

be generated and sent to the borrower.

2-42
HB-2-3550

Paragraph 2.29 Processing Final Payments

2.29 PROCESSING FINAL PAYMENTS

All payments will be date-stamped the day they are received and this date is used to

recompute the final payoff amount. If the payoff amount based on the actual date the final

payment was received is greater than the amount of the borrower’s payment, the payment will be

held in suspense until the borrower is contacted and the remaining funds are received. The 

Servicing Office should discuss the discrepancy with the borrower, agree on a new payoff date,

and provide a new final payoff statement indicating the remaining amount due based on the new 

payoff date. If the borrower pays more than the payoff amount, the Servicing Office

After the correct payoff amount is received, the Servicing Office must take the following 

actions to close out the account.

A. Release Security Documents

Since the methods and forms used to release security instruments

vary by State, the Servicing Office will ask Field Offices to prepare the 

necessary documents when a final payment is received. Careful instructions 

need to be given to the Field Office in these cases since the Agency’s 

security interests may be released. When a borrower’s account is paid in 

full, including all subsidy recapture, all security instruments are generally 

released. When a borrower’s loan balance is paid in full, and they defer the 

repayment of subsidy recapture, the security instruments are not released but 

may be subordinated to another lender. In these cases, clear instructions 

must be given to the Field Office on which documents to prepare.

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (03-31-21) SPECIAL PN

2-43
Paragraph 2.29 Processing Final Payments

B. Release Insurance

HB-2-3550

The Servicing Office must notify the property insurance company that the Agency’s 

interest in the property has ended.

C. Terminate Billing and Preauthorized Debits

When the borrower pays off a loan, the Servicing Office must end its requests for 

payment through preauthorized debits or regular billing statements.

D. Terminate Assignments of Income

The Servicing Office must forward to the borrower any checks received as 

assignment of income on behalf of a borrower whose account is paid in full and notify the 

sender by letter that future payments should be made directly to the borrower.

2-44
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-A

Page 1 of 2

FINAL PAYOFF WORKSHEET

Part I. Value Appreciation

(If any calculation in this section yields zero or less, stop and go to Part II.)

1. Current market value

2. (less) Original amounts of prior liens and subordinate affordable housing products

3. Balance (Line 1 - Line 2)

4. (less) RHS loans being paid off

5. Balance (Line 3 - Line 4)

6. (less) Equity recapture due from FLP loan

7. Balance (Line 5 - Line 6)

8. (less) Reasonable settlement costs

9. Balance (Line 7 - Line 8)

10. (less) Principal reduction (note rate) on RHS loan being paid off

11. Balance (Line 9 - Line 10)

12. (less) Principal reduction attributable to subsidy (PRAS) (if applicable)

13. Balance (Line 11 - Line 12)

14. (less) Original equity

15. Balance (Line 13 - Line 14)

16. (less) Capital improvements (if applicable)

17. Value Appreciation (Line 15 - Line 16) ( (If this is a positive value, continue. If this is a

negative value or “$0”, there is no recapture due.)

Part II. Amount Due if There is No Value Appreciation

(Complete only if there is no Value Appreciation)

18. RHS loans being paid off (Line 4)

19. Equity recapture from FLP loan to be collected (lesser of Line 5 or Line 6)

20. PRAS to be collected (lesser of Line 11 or Line 12)

21. Amount due (Line 18 + Line 19 + Line 20)

(Stop here; do not go on to Line 22)

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (05-30-12) PN 457
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-A

Page 2 of 2

Part III. Percentage of Total Debt Subject to Recapture to Be Paid Off

(Complete only for borrowers with leveraged loans, or if some Agency loans are not subject to recapture or

will not be repaid at this time)

22. RHS loans being paid off which are subject to recapture (Line 4)

23. Outstanding balance of all RHS loans, prior non-Agency mortgage loans, and

subordinate affordable housing products being paid off

24. RHS loans being paid off as a percentage of all mortgage loans (Line 22 ÷ Line 23) %

Part IV. Value Appreciation Subject to Recapture

25. Dollar value of value appreciation attributable to loans subject to recapture

(Line 17; or, if Part III was completed, Line 17 x Line 24)

26. Recapture percentage %

27. Value appreciation reduced by recapture percentage (Line 25 x Line 26)

28. Percentage of original equity (from Subsidy Repayment Agreement) %

29. Value appreciation, reduced by recapture percentage, attributable to original equity

(Line 27 x Line 28)

30. Portion of Value Appreciation subject to recapture (Line 27 - Line 29)

Part V. Amount Due if There is Value Appreciation

31. Amount of payment subsidy received

32. Recapture amount (Line 12 + lesser of Line 30 or 31)

33. Discounted recapture amount, if applicable (Line 32 x 75%)

34. Final payoff amount (Line 4 + Line 6 + Line 32 or Line 33 as appropriate)

_______________________________________________________________________________________________
ATTACHMENT2-B SUBSIDY

RECAPTURE CASE STUDY

A. THE SITUATION

John and Sharon Potter bought their home 10 years ago for $50,500. The home appraised

for $50,500 but they only qualified for a loan of $50,000. They borrowed $50,000 through a 33 

year Section 502 loan and paid the remaining $500 of the purchase price and $1,000 for closing

costs out of their savings.

The Potters’ Note Rate is 7 percent, but they have received payment subsidy throughout

the 10 years. For the first 5 years they had interest credit and a subsidized interest rate of 1 

percent. Then John got a big promotion. In the midst of the family’s excitement they neglected

to submit the income certification information required for payment subsidy renewal. Shortly

after their interest credit agreement lapsed, they submitted their information and began receiving

payment assistance with an Effective Interest Rate (EIR) of 4 percent.

In year 6 of the loan the roof developed major problems. It needed to be replaced and the

interior needed repairs to address the water damage. The Agency agreed to subordinate its

interests to allow the Potters to obtain a loan from Big Bank for the $5,000 needed to take care of 

the problem.

Last year, the Potters added a deck. The materials cost $1,250, but since they built it

themselves, there were no labor costs.

Sharon just got a great new job, and the family is selling the house and moving to a

bigger place on the other side of town. They are working with Big Bank to finance the new 

home. They are putting down $5,000, paying $1,000 in points, and are financing the rest of the

closing costs.

In preparation for selling the house, the Potters spent $3,000 on new wall-to-wall 

carpeting and installed a new high-efficiency water heater for $500.

The Potters have found buyers for their house and have signed a sales contract for

$65,000. They must pay $1,500 in closing costs.

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (09-24-12) PN 458

HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-B

Page 1 of 4
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-B

Page 2 of 4

B. INPUTS FOR VALUE APPRECIATION CALCULATION

• Current market value. Since the house is being sold in an arm's length transaction,

the $65,000 from the sales contract can be used as current market value and no

appraisal is required.

• Balance due prior lien holders. The Potters have been making regular payments on

the prior lien to Big Bank and have reduced the outstanding balance to $1,000.

• Balance due Agency. The remaining loan balance due the Agency is $38,510.

• Unreimbursed closing costs. The Potters are paying $1,500 in unreimbursed closing

costs to sell their home.

• Principal reduction. The Potters’ principal reduction at the note rate was $5,605 

and principal reduction attributable to subsidy (PRAS) was $5,885.

• Original equity. The difference between the purchase price on the amount of the

loan was $500.

• Capital improvement credit. When the new buyer's appraiser appraised the

property, the Potters asked if he would document the increased value attributable to

the improvements they had made. They showed him their receipts for $1,250 for the

deck and described the labor they had put into it. However, the appraiser concluded 

that the deck only added $500 to the overall value of the home.

They also provided receipts for the carpet ($3,000) and the water heater ($500) 

for a total of $3,500. The appraiser concluded that these improvements added $2,000

to the value of the property. However, since the carpet and water heater are not 

capital improvements, only the $500 value increase from the deck can be counted.

C. INPUTS FOR RECAPTURE CALCULATION

• Appreciation attributable to loans subject to recapture. The Potters’ outstanding 

Agency balance is $38,510, and their Big Bank balance is $1,000, for total 

outstanding loans totaling $39,510. Only the Agency loan is subject to recapture.

• Recapture factor from subsidy repayment agreement. The Potters’ Subsidy 

Repayment Agreement stipulates that a factor of 50 percent will be used to calculate

subsidy subject to recapture.

• Appreciation attributable to original equity. The Potters’ original equity was $500 

and the original market value was $50,500.
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-B

Page 3 of 4

POTTER FAMILY

FINAL PAYOFF WORKSHEET

Part I. Value Appreciation

(If any calculation in this section yields zero or less, stop and go to Part II.)

1. Current market value $65,000

2. (less) Original amounts of prior liens and subordinate affordable housing products $5,000

3. Balance (Line 1 - Line 2) $60,000

4. (less) RHS loans being paid off $38,510

5. Balance (Line 3 - Line 4) $21,490

6. (less) Equity recapture due from FLP loan 0

7. Balance (Line 5 - Line 6) $21,490

8. (less) Reasonable Settlement costs $1,500

9. Balance (Line 7 - Line 8) $19,990

10. (less) Principal reduction (note rate) on RHS loan being paid off $5,605

11. Balance (Line 9 - Line 10) $14,385

12. (less) Principal reduction attributable to subsidy (PRAS) (if applicable) $5,885

13. Balance (Line 11 - Line 12) $8,500

14. (less) Original equity $500

15. Balance (Line 13 - Line 14) $8,000

16. (less) Capital improvements (if applicable) $500

17. Value appreciation (Line 15 - Line 16) (If this is a positive value, continue. If this is a 

negative value or “$0”, there is no recapture due.)

$7,500

Part II. Amount Due if There is No Value Appreciation

(Complete only if there is no Value Appreciation)

18. RHS loans being paid off (Line 4)

19. Equity recapture from FLP loan to be collected (lesser of Line 5 or Line 6)

20. PRAS to be collected (lesser of Line 11 or Line 12)

21. Amount due (Line 18 + Line 19 + Line 20)

(Stop here; do not go on to Line 22)

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (09-24-12) PN 458
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-B

Page 4 of 4

Part III. Percentage of Total Debt Subject to Recapture to Be Paid Off

(Complete only for borrowers with leveraged loans, or if some Agency loans are not subject to recapture or

will not be repaid at this time)

22. RHS loans being paid off which are subject to recapture (Line 4) $38,510

23. Outstanding balance of all RHS loans, prior non-RHS mortgage loans, and subordinate

affordable housing products being paid off

$39,510

24. RHS loans being paid off as a percentage of all mortgage loans (Line 22 ÷ Line 23) 97.47%

Part IV. Value Appreciation Subject to Recapture

25. Dollar value of value appreciation attributable to loans subject to recapture

(Line 17; or, if Part III was completed, Line 17 x Line 24)

$7,310

26. Recapture percentage 50%

27. Value appreciation reduced by recapture percentage (Line 25 x Line 26) $3,655

28. Percentage of original equity (from Subsidy Repayment Agreement) 0.99%

29. Value appreciation, reduced by recapture percentage, attributable to original equity

(Line 27 x Line 28)

$37

30. Portion of Value Appreciation subject to recapture (Line 27 - Line 29) $3,618

Part V. Amount Due if There is Value Appreciation

31. Amount of payment subsidy received $15,000

32. Recapture amount (Line 12 + lesser of Line 30 or 31) $9,503

33. Discounted recapture amount, if applicable (Line 32 x 75%) 0

34. Final payoff amount (Line 4 + Line 6 + Line 32 or Line 33 as appropriate) $48,013
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-C

Page 1 of 27

ATTACHMENT2-C

UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

SERVICING BORROWERS WITH BOTH RURAL HOUSING

SERVICE (RHS) AND FARM SERVICE AGENCY (FSA)

FARM CREDIT PROGRAM (FCP) LOANS

1 Overview

A

Background Before reorganization, borrowers who had both RHS and FSA FCP loans, 

were handled according to RD Instruction 1965-A. The majority of these

loans is cross-collateralized and described on the same mortgage or deed of

trust. Since reorganization split the ownership of these loans into two 

separate Agencies, the case files and servicing procedures must also be split.

FSA will now service all FCP loans and the RHS of the Rural Development

mission area will service all Rural Housing (RH) (Section 502 loans and 504

loans and grants) and Labor Housing (LH) loans.

B

Purpose This attachment provides guidance to Field Offices on how to handle the

following servicing actions for borrowers with both RHS and FSA FCP loans.

• Separating borrower case files and flagging the account. See paragraph 2.

• Identifying and servicing RH loans for FSA buildings (RHF). See 

paragraph 3.

• General servicing procedures, such as graduation, refinancing, partial 

releases, releases, and determining lien position. See paragraph 4.

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (05-30-12) PN 457
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-C

Page 2 of 27

1 Overview (Continued)

• Servicing delinquent and financially distressed accounts. See paragraph 5.

B

Purpose • Handling foreclosures and voluntary conveyances. See paragraph 6.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is being developed that will outline

how accounts will be handled in the future. Until this MOU is issued, 

servicing will be handled according to this attachment.

C

Contact If there are questions regarding this attachment:

• Field Offices shall contact their State Office

• FSA State Offices shall contact Kim Laris, LSPMD, through the Area 

Office

• Rural Development State Offices shall contact the Deputy Administrator,

Single Family Housing in the National Office.

2 Initial Action

A

Separating 

Borrower

Case Files

Borrower case files must be split into two separate case files, if not already

split. One file will be for the RHS loan and one file for the FSA FCP loan.

Note: RHF loans, identified with a fund code 41 and a kind code 10, are FCP 

loans and will be part of the FSA case file.

FSA shall retain the original case file, but move the following documents to

the RHS file:

• all original documents pertinent to the RH or LH loan only

Examples: Promissory note, mortgage or deed of trust that describes

only the RH or LH note, Payment Assistance Agreement
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-C

Page 3 of 27

2 Initial Action (Continued)

A

Separating 

Borrower

Case Files 

(Continued)

• copies of all joint documents and running records that pertain to both the

RHS and FSA FCP loans.

Example: Applications, farm and home plans, mortgages or deeds

of trust, appraisals.

• copy of any Equity Recapture Agreement, FSA Instruction 1965-A,

Exhibit D.

FSA will provide RHS with access to original documents from the borrower's

case file upon request.

B

How 

Accounts 

Will Be 

Flagged

To help identify borrowers who have both RHS and FCP loans described on 

the same security instruments:

• both Agencies must mark the front of their case files in red with,

"RHS/FSA Joint Security Instruments"

• the Management Record System shall be flagged.

The following Finance Office status reports and Automated Discrepancy

Processing System (ADPS) inquiry screens reflect that the borrower has an 

RHS and FSA FCP loan:

• for FSA, the 540 Status Report will continue to show "RH" at the right of 

the report under the "Scheduled Annual Installments" column

for RHS, the Dedicated Loan Origination and Servicing (DLOS) System will

be flagged to show that the borrower has FCP loans

Note: There is no identifier on the RC 580 and 582 reports.

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (05-30-12) PN 457
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-C

Page 4 of 27

2 Initial Action (Continued) 

B

How Accounts 

Will Be 

Flagged 

(Continued)

• for FSA and RHS, the Current/Past Debts Inquiry Screen will continue to 

show both the RHS and FSA FCP loans.

These reports and screens do not reflect that the security is crosscollateralized or that the loans are described on the same mortgage or deed of

trust. Therefore, anytime the security will be subordinated, released,

liquidated, etc., the security instruments will have to be carefully reviewed to

determine whether both agencies must be involved. 

C

Release of 

Additional 

Security

To simplify servicing in the future, FSA may consider releasing nonfarm

dwellings that were financed with RH or LH funds and taken as additional 

security for the FCP loan. FSA shall refer to FSA Instruction 1965-A, 

section 1965.25(d) for guidance.

RHS may also consider releasing any farm property that was taken as

additional security for the RH or LH loan or that was cross-collateralized

because of the FCP loans. RHS shall refer to 7 CFR part 3550 for RH 

loans. For LH loans, an exception to the requirements of RD Instruction

1965-B, §1965.77, must be requested from the RHS Administrator.

Note: The mortgage or deed of trust cannot be released of record if it

describes both the RHS and FSA FCP loan. Refer to paragraph 4 D 

for issuing a letter of release to the non-releasing Agency for joint

mortgages or deeds of trust.
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-C

Page 5 of 27

2 Initial Action (Continued) 

D

Insurance

Policies

Each agency shall notify their borrowers to contact their insurance company

and have the lienholder or mortgagee name changed in the mortgagee clause

or declaration page to read:

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, ACTING THROUGH THE UNITED

STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

ATTN: [AGENCY NAME]

[ADDRESS]

Both RHS and FSA should be named as mortgagee and the addresses for both

should be given so that each agency will receive notices from the insurance 

company of cancellation, loss claims, etc. Field Offices may want to contact

the insurance company directly if the company name is available. A copy of

the change must be filed in the borrower's case file. Follow-up action is

necessary to assure the change was made.

3 RHF Loans

A

Identifying 

RHF Loans

RHF loans shall be serviced by FSA as an FCP loan. These type loans were 

made with RH funds before 1974 to construct farm buildings, such as chicken

houses, silos, barns, etc. These loans were officially transferred to FSA on 

October 2, 1995 and should no longer show on the RC 580 and 582 reports.

During the transfer, the fund code was changed from a 36 or 46, kind code 10, 

to a fund code 41, kind code 10. These loans are now shown on the

540 Status Report.

Note: If any of these loans have not been transferred, FSA State Offices 

should prepare a memorandum:

• to KCMO, St. Louis, attention Janet Marxkors, FAX 314-539-6447

• including the borrower's name, case number, fund code, loan number,

existing kind code, date of original loan, and purpose of loan

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (05-30-12) PN 457
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-C

Page 6 of 27

3 RHF Loans (Continued)

A

Identifying 

RHF Loans

(Continued)

• requesting that the:

• loan be transferred to FSA

• fund code be changed to a 41

• kind code be changed to a 10.

B

Servicing 

RHF Loan

When making future Farm Ownership (FO) loans and providing loan

servicing, RHF loans will:

• not be counted as an FO loan for determining FO loan limitations

• be included in DALR$ as a fund code 46 if being considered for 

restructuring and:

• be charged the lower of the original note rate or the current RH loan 

rate

• be amortized up to 33 years from the date of the original note

• require the borrower to sign Form RD 1940-17, Promissory Note

4 General Servicing Procedures

A

Payoff 

Requests

When FSA and RHS are joint creditors and a request for payoff information is

received, in addition to giving the payoff information, the contacted Agency

should also alert the requestor that the other Agency also has a loan and how 

to secure the payoff information for that loan.
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-C

Page 7 of 27

4 General Servicing Procedures (Continued)

B

Refinancing and 

Classification

Refinancing and classification of accounts will be handled separately by 

each Agency based solely on the loans of each Agency. Copies of financial 

statements, cash flows, and other related documents may be shared with

each Agency upon request.

C

Partial Releases,

Subordinations, 

and Consents

for Joint 

Security 

Instruments

Approval from both Agencies is required when issuing partial releases, 

subordinations, and consents against security instruments that describe both

the RHS and FSA loan. Only one Form RD 465-1, Application for Partial 

Release Subordination, or Consent, is needed. The Agency receiving Form 

RD 465-1 shall take the lead in processing the request and obtaining the 

required approvals from the other Agency. The lead Agency will obtain

any appraisals needed. Appraisals for farm tracts must meet the

requirements of RD Instruction 1922-E, and appraisals for nonfarm tracts

must meet the requirements of 7 CFR part 3550. Authority to execute

these actions will be based on the established policies and procedures of 

each Agency.

If both Agencies cannot approve the request, it will be denied. Responses 

to the borrower's request may be issued in one letter by the lead Agency or

separated in two letters, one from FSA and the other from RHS.

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (05-30-12) PN 457
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-C

Page 8 of 27

4 General Servicing Procedures (Continued) 

D

Release of 

Joint Security

Instruments

FSA and Rural Development State Office approval is required to release

security instruments that describe both an RHS and FSA loan. If all the

security cannot be released because of outstanding obligations by the other 

Agency, then the following steps must be taken:

• if FSA's debt is paid in full or satisfied first, then FSA will forward the

original joint security instruments to the Rural Development State Office

with a letter indicating satisfaction of the debt

• if RHS's debt is paid in full or satisfied first, then Rural Development will

send the FSA State Office a letter indicating satisfaction of the debt

• return of promissory notes will be handled according to RD

Instruction 1951-D (for FSA), Chapter 7 of HB-2-3550 (for RHS), and 

applicable State Instructions.

• a copy of the releasing Agency letter, if applicable, will be attached to the 

security instruments in the borrower's case file.

• the security instruments will be released by the remaining Agency when

appropriate.

E

Determining 

Lien Position 

When Both

RHS and

FSA Loan

Were Made 

at the Same 

Time

The lien position shall be shared by both RHS and FSA when the RHS and 

FSA FCP loans were made at the same time, or the security was taken at the

same time, and included on the same mortgage or deed of trust. The amount

shared will be proportionate to the total amount of debt owed on these loans.

See the “Guide for Calculating the Proportionate Share of Security 

Value/Proceeds from Joint Mortgages,” at the end of this attachment for

determining the amount to enter in DALR$ if the borrower is being serviced

under FSA Instruction 1951-S.

See “Guide for Calculating the Proportionate Share of Security 

Value/Proceeds from Joint Mortgages,” for sales by borrower, foreclosures, 

deeds in lieu of foreclosure (voluntary conveyances), or losses covered by

 insurance. 
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-C

Page 9 of 27

4 General Servicing Procedures (Continued)

F

Offsets Offsets for both Agencies will continue to be handled according to applicable

Agency regulations. Payments received from administrative offsets that were

established before reorganization will be paid to each Agency in order of lien 

priority. If both Agencies have the same lien priority, offset payments will be

distributed on a prorata basis according to the “Guide for Calculating the 

Proportionate Share of Security Value/Proceeds from Joint Mortgages,” at the 

end of this attachment.

IRS offsets established before reorganization will be paid to each Agency 

based on oldest delinquency date. If both Agencies have the same

delinquency date, offset payments will be distributed on a prorata basis based

on percentage of borrower debt. These payments will be processed to the

appropriate Agency by the St. Louis Finance Office following review of the 

borrower's account by Program Reporting Branch representatives from both

Agencies.

G

Losses 

Covered by

Insurance

Both Agencies will handle losses according to RD Instruction 426.1 or 7 CFR 

part 3550, as appropriate. If insurance proceeds will be used to repair or 

replace joint security property, then both Agencies must decide who will

oversee and approve the repairs and replacements and make all required

inspections. Normally, the Agency who holds a prior lien will be responsible

for seeing that any repairs or replacements are completed. However, these

duties may be shared by both Agencies to the extent that FSA may handle all

farm property and RHS may handle Single Family Housing (SFH) property.

Copies of development plans, inspections, etc. shall be shared with the other

Agency. Proceeds to be applied against the debt will be applied based on lien 

priority. Both Agencies must approve any release of insurance proceeds of

joint secured property.

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (05-30-12) PN 457
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-C

Page 10 of 27

4 General Servicing Procedures (Continued) 

H 

ADPS

Inquiry

Screens and 

Processing of 

Transactions

Both Agencies still have access to all inquiry screens for both RHS and FCP 

loans.

Generally, ADPS transactions will be processed separately by each Agency. 

However, there are transactions, for example, the 5G, 5H, 3E, and 4D (flags,

acquisitions, and name and address changes), that when processed, affect both

the FSA and RHS accounts. For this reason, both Agencies will have to 

coordinate the processing of such transactions with each other to avoid 

duplication and problems in the future.

I

Labor

Housing 

Loans

Generally, LH loans will be serviced by the RHS official responsible for 

managing the Multi-Family Housing program. However, if the security is the

same for both the FCP and LH loan, releases and liquidations will be handled

according to this attachment.

5 Servicing Delinquent and Financially Distressed Accounts

A

Debt Servicing 

Responsibilities

Each Agency shall be responsible for servicing its own loans. However, in 

cases where the loans are cross-collateralized, it will be necessary for both

Agencies to work together to protect the Government's security interest.

Note: Loans are cross-collateralized when property is used to secure both 

the RHS and FSA loans. The extent of cooperation needed between 

the two Agencies will depend on whether both loans are described

on the same security instruments.
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-C

Page 11 of 27

5 Servicing Delinquent and Financially Distressed Accounts (Continued) 

B

Security Is Not 

CrossCollateralized

When the security is not cross-collateralized, the following procedures

shall be followed:

• RHS will service RH loans according to 7 CFR part 3550 and LH loans 

according to 7 CFR part 3560, and other RH and LH procedures.

• FSA will service FCP loans according to FSA Instructions 1951-S and

1965-A, and other FCP procedures.

C

Security Is 

CrossCollateralized

and Loans Are

Described on 

Separate 

Security 

Instruments

When the security is cross-collateralized, and the RHS and FSA loans are

described on separate security instruments:

• normal debt servicing will be handled as described in paragraph 5 B

• foreclosures and conveyances will be handled according to paragraph 6.

D

Security Is 

CrossCollateralized

and RH and

FCP Loans Are

Described on 

Same Security 

Instruments

FSA Instruction 1965-A, section 1965.26(c)(2) or (3) and the instructions 

in this paragraph must be followed by both Agencies when the security is

cross-collateralized and RHS and FSA loans are described on the same 

security instrument.

Default on any one loan, whether RHS or FSA loan, constitutes default

against the security instrument. Therefore, even if only one Agency's loan

is in default, the borrower is in nonmonetary default with the other Agency.

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (05-30-12) PN 457
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-C

Page 12 of 27

5 Servicing Delinquent and Financially Distressed Accounts (Continued) 

D

Security Is 

CrossCollateralized

and RH and

FCP Loans

Are 

Described on 

Same 

Security 

Instruments 

(Continued)

The following describes each Agency's responsibility for notifying the other

when their loan is in default.

• If the FSA loan is in default for reasons other than the RHS loan is in

default:

• FSA shall notify the Rural Development Field Office when the

borrower is sent the 1951-S servicing notices

• RHS will consider the borrower for moratorium and payment subsidy.

• If RHS loan is delinquent or otherwise in default for reasons other than the 

FSA loan is in default:

• RHS will service the RHS loan according to 7 CFR part 3550 up 

through acceleration

• once the account is accelerated, RHS will notify FSA and send FSA a 

copy of the acceleration notice

Note: RHS will not proceed with foreclosure action until after FSA 

has completed its servicing process.

• after FSA is notified of the RHS acceleration, FSA will send the

borrower FSA Instruction 1951-S, Exhibit A, Attachments 1, 3,

and 4 for reason of nonmonetary default and service accordingly.
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-C

Page 13 of 27

5 Servicing Delinquent and Financially Distressed Accounts (Continued) 

D

Security Is 

CrossCollateralized

and RH and

FCP Loans Are

Described on 

Same Security 

Instruments 

(Continued)

• The following are general rules that apply in all instances.

• Each Agency will keep the other up to date on the status of the 

default and the servicing progress.

• If it is determined necessary to bring the RHS account current or

find a feasible farm plan, the RHS loan may be reamortized by RHS

when the FSA loans are restructured. Reamortization of the RHS

loan must be closed before or simultaneously with the FCP loans.

Any new security instruments taken will be separate for each

Agency's loans.

• RHS will accelerate the account when notified by FSA that the 

borrower was notified of FSA's intent to accelerate (FSA

Instruction 1951-S, Exhibit A, Attachments 1, 3 and 4, 5 and 6, 5-A

and 6-A, 9 and 10, or 9-A and 10-A).

• Acceleration notices must describe the reasons for acceleration,

such as monetary or nonmonetary default, or both. Caution should

be given to accepting an offer by the borrower that would 

deaccelerate the account as this could affect liquidation by the other 

Agency.

• Each Agency shall send the other a copy of the acceleration notice. 

Appeals will be held separately since they are two separate adverse 

actions.

• RHS will continue to flag the account "FAP," foreclosure action 

pending, when the RHS account is accelerated so that payments

will not be credited to the RHS account.

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (05-30-12) PN 457
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-C

Page 14 of 27

5 Servicing Delinquent and Financially Distressed Accounts (Continued) 

D

Security Is CrossCollateralized

and RH and FCP

Loans Are 

Described on 

Same Security 

Instruments 

(Continued)

• If payments are received on the FCP account before FCP loans are

accelerated, Field Offices should indicate on Form RD 451-2, 

Schedule of Remittances, which the payment should be applied

since only the RHS account is accelerated.

• FSA will flag the account "ACL," accelerated, at the time the FCP

account is accelerated.

• FSA will flag the account "FAP" in judicial foreclosures when the 

account is referred to OGC for foreclosure. In nonjudicial 

foreclosures, the account will be flagged "FAP" when the 

foreclosure sale is scheduled.

• If the FCP borrower is offered a buyout, and the RHS loan is 

delinquent, the RHS loan must be paid off at the same time the

buyout is completed. RHS will be contacted for payoff

information. FSA will handle collection of the RHS loan and

distribute proceeds according to Notice FI-2139. The DALR$

report must be modified to identify the RHS debt to be paid. If the

RHS loan is not paid in full, the security instrument cannot be

released. See subparagraph 4 D on how to handle releases of joint 

security instruments.

E

Special 

Instructions for 

DALR$

Follow these special instructions when primary loan servicing will be

considered for a borrower with an RH loan.

• RHS loans will not be entered in the DALR$ loan input screen. 

Instead, they will be entered as another lender's debt.

• If the RHS loan will be reamortized, enter the reamortized RHS

payment on Form FSA 431-2, Farm and Home Plan, Table K.
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-C

Page 15 of 27

5 Servicing Delinquent and Financially Distressed Accounts (Continued) 

E

Special 

Instructions 

for DALR$

(Continued)

• If RHS holds a prior lien to the FSA debt, then the amount of the RHS

debt will be entered in the net recovery value screen.

• See paragraph 4 D and the “Guide for Calculating Proportional Share 

of Joint Security Interest for DALR$,” at the end of this attachment to

determine the proportionate share of each Agency when RHS and FSA

loans were made at the same time, or the security was taken at the

same time, and described on the same mortgage or deed of trust

• If RHS loan is junior to one loan and before other FSA loans, then 

enter only the amount of RHS debt less the prior lien debt of the FSA

loan, if any.

• If the RHS loan is to be paid in full at the time of buyout according to

paragraph 4 D, add the following statement to the DALR$ report at the

bottom of the summary page:

"If you choose to buyout your FCP loans, you must also pay off your RHS

loan(s). The unpaid balance on this loan(s) as of is

$ ."

F

Bankruptcy 

Filings With 

Joint Security 

Instruments

Each Agency will handle bankruptcies separately according to their Agency 

regulations. Proof of Claim forms will be completed by each Agency. Any

necessary legal coordination will be handled by OGC.

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (05-30-12) PN 457
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-C

Page 16 of 27

6 Handling Foreclosures and Voluntary Conveyances Against Joint Security 

A

Loans

Described on 

Separate 

Security 

Instruments

The following procedures will be followed for voluntary conveyance, 

foreclosures by RHS and FSA, and third party foreclosures of

cross-collateralized property when RHS and FSA loans are described on

separate security instruments.

Voluntary Conveyance

If one Agency is proposing to accept a voluntary conveyance, (deed in lieu of 

foreclosure), the initiating Agency will obtain a current appraisal and a title

opinion indicating lien position and send copies of both to the responding 

Agency with a request for release.

• If the lien is valueless, the responding Agency will prepare and send the 

initiating Agency a release.

• If the responding Agency holds a prior lien, the initiating Agency will 

voucher a check to pay off the responding Agency's lien before accepting

the conveyance.

• If the responding Agency holds a junior lien, the initiating Agency will 

voucher a check to pay the responding Agency's lien up to the current

market value of the security property, minus prior liens.

Foreclosure

If one Agency is initiating foreclosure, a determination must be made to do

one of the following:

• pay off the other Agency's prior lien up to the current market value, minus

other prior liens

• obtain a release from the responding Agency, if their lien is valueless
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-C

Page 17 of 27

6 Handling Foreclosures and Voluntary Conveyances Against Joint Security (Continued) 

A

Loans

Described on 

Separate 

Security 

Instruments 

(Continued)

• obtain an agreement to be named in the foreclosure suit, or given notice of

the foreclosure.

Note: All efforts should be made to eliminate having to get the other

Agency involved in the foreclosure.

Third Party Foreclosures

Third party foreclosures initiated by other than RHS and FSA will be handled

separately by each Agency based on their regulations for handling third party 

actions.

• FSA will use FSA Instruction 1965-A, section 1965.11(c).

• RHS will use RD Instruction 1965-B or 7 CFR part 3550, as applicable.

• Both Agencies may bid according to RD Instruction 1955-A, section

1955.15(f) or 7 CFR part 3550, as applicable.

B

Loans

Described on 

the Same 

Security 

Instruments

The following procedures will be followed for voluntary conveyances, (deeds 

in lieu of foreclosure) foreclosures by RHS or FSA, and third party 

foreclosures of cross-collateralized property when both the RHS and FSA 

loans are described on the same security instruments or a combination of

separate and same security instruments.

Voluntary Conveyance

If one Agency is proposing to accept a voluntary conveyance (deed in lieu of 

foreclosure), the initiating Agency will obtain a current appraisal and a title

opinion indicating lien position and send copies of both to the responding 

Agency with a request for release.

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (05-30-12) PN 457
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-C

Page 18 of 27

6 Handling Foreclosures and Voluntary Conveyances Against Joint Security (Continued) 

B

Loans

Described on 

the Same 

Security 

Instruments 

(Continued)

• if the lien is valueless, the responding Agency will prepare and send the 

initiating Agency a letter of release as described in paragraph 4 D and the 

original note (if required by State law to issue releases) and mortgage or

deed of trust, if in that Agency's possession

• if the responding Agency holds a prior lien, the initiating Agency will 

voucher a check to pay off the responding Agency's lien before accepting

the conveyance.

• if the responding Agency holds a junior lien, the initiating Agency will 

voucher a check to pay the responding Agency's lien up to the current

market value of the security property, minus prior liens, including the

initiating Agency's prior lien

• if the releasing Agency is partially secured with the acquiring Agency, the 

acquiring Agency will voucher a check to pay the releasing Agency its 

share of the amount of their debt up to the current market value, minus

prior liens. See the “Guide for Calculating the Proportionate Share of 

Security Value/Proceeds from Joint Mortgages,” at the end of this 

attachment for determining the amount of credit to each loan when the

RHS and FCP loan were made or secured with the same property at the

same time and described on the same mortgage or deed of trust.

Foreclosure

When foreclosure action is initiated by FSA, RHS, or a third party, the

following procedures will be followed.

• If one Agency holds a separate security instrument filed before any joint

security instruments, a decision must be made between the two Agencies

about which one will bid to protect their security interest or foreclose.

• If a separate security instrument was not filed before the joint security

instruments and both Agencies share in lien priority, FSA will bid or

initiate the foreclosure.
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-C

Page 19 of 27

6 Handling Foreclosures and Voluntary Conveyances Against Joint Security (Continued) 

B

Loans

Described on 

the Same 

Security 

Instruments 

(Continued)

• The Agency that determined not to bid or foreclose will assign its note or

assumption agreement and security interest to the foreclosing or bidding

Agency. The foreclosure complaint will identify all FSA and RHS loans.

• States shall request advice from their Regional OGC on preparing an 

assignment. The assignment shall contain language pertaining to the

application of sale proceeds and cancellation of the assignment in the

event foreclosure is canceled or the accounts decelerated or reinstated for 

any reason including bankruptcy. The assignment shall be recorded in the

County records.

• The accounting system will not be revised to account for the assignment.

The Agency that assigned its note and security interest will wait to debt 

settle the account after the foreclosure is completed and all proceeds or

credits are applied.

• Proceeds from the sale of property or credit for acquisitions will be 

applied to the loans in the order of lien priority. See the “Guide for 

Calculating the Proportionate Share of Security Value/Proceeds from Joint 

Mortgages,” at the end of this attachment for determining the amount to be

applied or credited to each loan when the RHS and FSA loan were made

or secured with the same property at the same time and described on the

same mortgage or deed of trust.

• If the foreclosure is canceled and the accounts decelerated or reinstated, 

each Agency will resume servicing of their note.

Each Agency will handle debt settlements of their own loans.

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (05-30-12) PN 457
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-C

Page 20 of 27

6 Handling Foreclosures and Voluntary Conveyances Against Joint Security (Continued) C

Assigning 

Property ID 

Numbers

Since the inventory property ID's cannot be duplicated, it will be necessary for

each Agency within each State to use the following property ID numbers,

along with their State and county code. The last 5 digits must be

consecutively numbered within the following range:

• FSA - 00001-00499

• RHS - 00500-00599.

Note: The State and county codes are the same as those used for all St. Louis

Finance Office purposes, not the former ASCS State and county codes.

Since the property ID numbers include the State and county code, the same

numbers within the State can be used by all counties. Designating these ID

numbers by Agency will eliminate discrepancies from occurring when

counties attempt to assign a number that has already been used by the other

Agency in the same county.

D

Processing 

ADPS 3E

Transaction 

for 

Acquisitions

The ADPS 3E transaction for acquiring property is a combined transaction

that affects both a borrower’s FCP and RHS account. Therefore, anytime

property is acquired by FSA or RHS from a borrower that has both an RHS 

and FCP loan, the St. Louis Finance Office must process the 3E transaction.

This is the case even if the property is not cross-collateralized. Under no 

circumstances can a property be acquired jointly.

When property is acquired by FSA or RHS, according to this paragraph, the

acquiring Agency shall:

• complete the “ADPS 3E Transaction Form.”

• FAX a copy of the “Guide for Calculating the Proportionate Share of 

Security Value/Proceeds from Joint Mortgages,” if applicable, and the 

“ADPS 3E Transaction” to the St. Louis Finance Office, attention Janet 

Marxkors, at 314-539-6447.

Note: If the security is cross-collateralized, a copy of “Guide for Calculating 

the Proportionate Share of Security Value/Proceeds from Joint 

Mortgages,” and the “ADPS 3E Transaction” shall also be sent to the

nonacquiring Agency 
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-C

Page 21 of 27

Guide for Calculating Proportionate Share of Joint Security Interest for DALR$ 

The proportionate share will be based on the market value less authorized selling expenses.

Step 1. divided by = X = RHS Debt

Total RHS RHS Percent Market Value RHS Share of 

and FCP Debt of Debt Market Value

1/ 2/

Step 2. X =

RHS Percent Liquidation RHS Share of 

of Debt Expenses Expenses 

(from Step 1)

Step 3. - =

RHS Share RHS Share Amount of Debt

of Market of Expenses to enter in DALR$

Value (from Step 2) as RHS Prior Lien 

(from Step 1)

1/ This is the unpaid debt that holds an equal priority in the security property. These loans were 

made at the same time or the security was taken at the same time to secure both type loans

and described on the same mortgage or deed of trust.

2/ This is the total unpaid balance of the RHS and FCP loans that are equally secured. All other 

loans made before and after will not be counted in this calculation.

Note: Debt includes unpaid principal and interest. Recapture will not be included.

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (05-30-12) PN 457
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-C

Page 22 of 27

Guide for Calculating the Proportionate Share of Security Value/Proceeds From Joint Mortgages

The proportionate share is based on the market value less prior liens and selling costs.

Calculation of FSA Share:

Step 1. divided by = X = 

FSA Debt Total RHS FSA Percent Market Value/ FSA Share of

1/ and FCP Debt of Debt Sales Proceeds Market Value/

2/ less prior liens Sale Proceeds

Step 2. X =

FSA Percent Liquidation/ FSA Share

of Debt Selling Expenses of Expenses 

(from Step 1)

Step 3. - =

FSA Share FSA Share Net FSA Share

of Market of Expenses of Market Value/

Value/Sale (from Step 2) Sale Proceeds 

Proceeds

(from Step 1)

1/ This is the unpaid debt that is equally secured with the other Agency's loan that were made at

the same time or the security was taken at the same time to secure both type loans and

described on the same mortgage or deed of trust.

2/ This is the total unpaid balance of the RHS and FCP loans that are equally secured. All other 

loans made before and after will not be counted in this calculation.

Note: Debt includes unpaid principal and interest and any recapture due, except RH 

recapture will not be included if acquired by RHS or FSA.
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-C

Page 23 of 27

Guide for Calculating the Proportionate Share of Security Value/Proceeds From Joint Mortgages

(Continued)

Calculation of RHS Share:

Step 4. divided by = X = RHS Debt Total RHS RHS Percent

Market Value/ RHS Share of 1/ and FCP Debt

of Debt Sales Proceeds Market Value/

2/ less prior liens Sale Proceeds

Step 5. X =

RHS Percent Liquidation/ RHS Share

of Debt Selling Expenses of Expenses 

(from Step 4)

Step 6. - =

RHS Share RHS Share Net RHS Share

of Market of Expenses of Market Value/

Value/Sale (from Step 5) Sale Proceeds

Proceeds

(from Step 4)

1/ This is the unpaid debt that is equally secured with the other Agency's loan that were made at

the same time or the security was taken at the same time to secure both type loans and

described on the same mortgage or deed of trust.

2/ This is the total unpaid balance of the RHS and FCP loans that are equally secured. All other 

loans made before and after will not be counted in this calculation.

Note: Debt includes unpaid principal and interest and any recapture due, except RH 

recapture will not be included if acquired by RHS or FSA.

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (05-30-12) PN 457
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-C

Page 24 of 27

ADPS 3E Transaction

A

ADPS 3E

Transaction 

Form

Complete the following for all acquisitions when the borrower has both an

RHS and FSA loan. Do not process an ADPS 3E transaction. Complete 1

for each property acquired.

TO: Janet Marxkors, FAX Number 314-539-6447

FROM:

Name of Preparer, Agency, and Telephone Number

SUBJECT: Acquisition - Borrower with FSA and RHS Loans

1) ACQUIRING AGENCY NAME (FSA OR RHS)

2) CASE NUMBER 3) NAME OF BORROWER

4) OK CODE (Leave Blank) 5) DATE ACQUIRED 

6) MOST SECURED FCP LOAN 7) MOST SECURED RHS LOAN

8) PROPERTY ID OF ACQUIRING AGENCY 

9) PROPERTY DESCRIPTION CODE

11) TAXPAYER ID

10) PROPERTY SUITABILITY CODE 

12) PROPERTY ADDRESS (Leave blank if chattel property being acquired) 

Street or route City/Town, State

13) ACRES ACQUIRED: CROPLAND PASTURE WOODLAND OTHER

14) MARKET VALUE - ACQUISITION 15) DATE LAST APPRAISAL

16) AMOUNT CREDITED-FSA RHS TOTAL

17) DATE SUBMITTED

20) FORM CODE

18) BUSINESS CODE

21) CARD CODE (Leave Blank)

19) HOW ACQUIRED

22) LOANS TO ACQUIRE: (ENTER FUND CODE AND LOAN NUMBER, LEAVE BLANK IF ALL FSA AND RHS LOANS ARE TO BE ACQUIRED)

FSA: RHS:
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-C

Page 25 of 27

ADPS 3E Transaction (Continued)

B

Instructions Complete ADPS 3E transaction form according to the following table

Item Instructions

1-4 Self-explanatory.

5 Enter the date the deed was recorded.

6 Complete if FSA acquired the property or both Agencies will share in the market

value credit, otherwise, leave blank.

7 Complete if RHS acquired the property or both Agencies will share in the market

value credit, otherwise leave blank.

8 Enter the next available property ID of the acquiring Agency. The first 5 digits 

must be the first 5 digits of the borrower's case number. The last 5 digits must be

in the following range:

• FSA - 00001 - 00499

• RHS - 00500 - 00599.

9 Enter 1 of the following property description codes:

• 01 - Single Family Residence

• 02 - Lot Only (Nonfarm tract without Residence)

• 03 - Farm (Includes Range or Pasture Land)

• 04 - Chattel Property

• 08 - Recreation Property

• 10 - Nonfarm Property Securing Farm Program Loan

• 11 - Other

• 15 - Farm with Secretarial Easement

• 17 - Indian Land Reservation

• 19 - Indian Land Reservation with Secretarial Easement.

10 Enter 1 of the following property suitability codes:

• 1 - SFH-program/FCP-suitable

• 2 - SFH-nonprogram/FCP-surplus

• 5 - Other.

11-12 Self-explanatory.

13 Enter the number of acres acquired to the nearest tenth by type if item 9 is 03,

15, 17, or 19.

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (05-30-12) PN 457
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-C

Page 26 of 27

ADPS 3E Transaction (Continued)

B

Instructions 

(Continued)

Item Instructions

14-15 Self-explanatory.

16 Enter dollars and cents. "TOTAL" must equal the FSA and RHS amount

added together.

17 Enter the date the exhibit was prepared and Faxed to the St. Louis Finance 

Office.

18 • Enter 1 of the following if item 9 is 03, 15, 17, or 19:

• 0110 - Cash Grain

• 0130 - Field Crops other than Cash Grain • 0160 - Vegetables • 0171 - Berries • 0172 - Grapes • 0174 - Citrus Fruits • 0175 - Deciduous Tree Fruits • 0181 - Floriculture and Nursery • 0182 - Food Crops Grown Under Cover (Greenhouse) • 0211 - Beef Cattle Feedlot • 0212 - Beef Cattle other than Feedlot (cow/calf, etc.) • 0213 - Hog Farm • 0214 - Sheep and Goats • 0219 - General Livestock • 0241 - Dairy Farm • 0251 - Chickens-Broilers • 0252 - Chickens-Layers • 0253 - Turkeys

• 0270 - Special Enterprises (Veal, Rabbits, Mink, etc.).

19 Enter 1 of the following codes:

• 1 - Foreclosure

• 2 - Voluntary Conveyance

• 3 - Third party Foreclosure (Other than FSA or RHS).
HB-2-3550

Attachment 2-C

Page 27 of 27

ADPS 3E Transaction (Continued)

B

Instructions 

(Continued)

Item Instructions

20 Enter 1 of the following codes:

• 1 - Released from Liability (Involved in Bankruptcy)

• 2 - Released from Liability (Not Involved in Bankruptcy)

• 3 - Not Released from Liability.

Note: This applies only to the Agency that acquired the property. Any

remaining debt of the other Agency will not be written off with this

transaction. It is the responsibility of each Agency to settle its own 

accounts after confirming that the acquisition was processed.

21 Leave blank.

22 List the loan or recoverable cost items, if a separate loan number from the

parent loan, to be credited in the order of lien priority. The first loan for each 

Agency entered must be the loan indicated as the most secured loan.

(05-27-98) SPECIAL PN

Revised (05-30-12) PN 457