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Why a reverse mortgage makes sense for seniors this July

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A reverse mortgage could provide the financial support many seniors need this July. Getty Images/iStockphoto

A reverse mortgage isn't available for every homeowner. Typically, you'll need to be age 62 or older to qualify, leaving this option available mostly for senior homeowners. But if you meet the age requirements and some other criteria, this unique funding source could be worth exploring, particularly in the unique economic landscape of July 2025.

With a reverse mortgage, lenders will pay homeowners out of their accumulated home equity, either in a lump sum or via monthly payments. This money will only need to be repaid in the event of the death of the homeowner or if the home in question is sold. Otherwise, homeowners can comfortably rely on these payments being made back to them, providing a much-needed financial cushion right now. 

And while the benefits of a reverse mortgage can often be timeless and applicable in a variety of scenarios, there are some timely reasons why it can be particularly beneficial for seniors this July. Below, we'll examine three of those reasons.

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Why a reverse mortgage makes sense for seniors this July

Not sure if a reverse mortgage could be the right move for your finances this July? Here's why it could be:

It can fill in the gaps left by Social Security

Whether you're currently dealing with issues related to Social Security overpayments and clawbacks or are simply concerned about the system running out of funding in the future, a reverse mortgage can adequately fill the gaps left by Social Security each month. This additional monthly income stream can be the difference between covering all of your bills and expenses or not. With a reverse mortgage, you won't need to cut as many corners or try to squeeze as much as you can out of retirement funds and Social Security. And with inflation rising again in June and rates on loans and borrowing products remaining elevated, an additional income stream is particularly helpful to have this July.

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It won't require monthly repayments in today's high-rate climate

Unlike a home equity loan, which also uses the home as a funding source, homeowners won't be responsible for making monthly repayments right after the funds are disbursed. They won't be required to make repayments at all, as equity taken with a reverse mortgage will simply be replenished upon the sale of the home. This is a major advantage this July, as it eliminates the stress (and calculations) required when calculating interest rates and repayments on items like home equity loans and home equity lines of credit (HELOCs).

Qualifying may be easier compared to alternative funding sources

The average home equity amount sits over $300,000 right now, and if you're a senior living in a paid-off home, you may find yourself with even more money to borrow from. Qualifying, then, could be easier compared to trying to secure a six-figure credit card line or a $100,000 personal loan, for example. Lenders can easily determine your home's worth and, thus, the amount you can secure with a reverse mortgage. And a simple qualification is always beneficial, but especially this July when the need for additional funds, thanks to inflation, interest rates and stock market uncertainty, is elevated.

The bottom line

A reverse mortgage isn't a one-size-fits-all solution for seniors, but the benefits of pursuing one can be broadly applicable in the economic climate of July 2025. With the ability to fill in gaps left over from Social Security payments, no concerns over repayments (and interest rates) in today's elevated rate climate and relative ease of qualification compared to alternative funding sources, a reverse mortgage could be the solution to your financial problems both this month and in the future.

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