Notice of Default in California: What It Means and What to Do Immediately

What Is a Notice of Default?

A Notice of Default (NOD) is a legal document recorded with your county recorder's office that officially starts the California foreclosure process. It is public record.

The NOD states the amount you are behind, the lender's intent to foreclose, and the trustee's contact information.

What Happens After the NOD?

California law requires a mandatory 90-day waiting period after the NOD is recorded. During this time, the lender CANNOT issue a Notice of Trustee Sale.

This 90-day window is your best opportunity. Most successful loan modifications are completed during this period.

What You Should Do Immediately

Don't panic — you have time if you act now. Gather your financial documents: pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements. Write a hardship letter explaining your situation. Contact NFDA for a free same-day consultation. Do not ignore calls from your servicer — engage them.

NFDA's Role

NFDA begins the loss mitigation process immediately upon intake. We build your complete package, submit it to the correct loss mitigation department, and track it to resolution. Call 949-484-9849 or visit www.thenfda.com.