 TITLE: What Is a Reverse Mortgage? CONTENT: Is a Reverse Mortgage the Right Option for Me?\n----------------------------------------------\nIf you are struggling with living expenses in retirement, is a reverse mortgage a good choice? That depends.\n*   As long as you can easily pay the costs associated with your home, such as property taxes, a reverse mortgage may offer the extra income you need to cover other costs, such as health care. However, if you're already struggling to cover the costs of homeowners insurance, property taxes and home maintenance and repairs, a reverse mortgage probably isn't right for you.\n*   If you are planning to move out of your home in the near future, a reverse mortgage isn't a good option. Reverse mortgages are best for those who plan to remain in their homes for the long term.\n*   A reverse mortgage isn't the only way the equity in your home can help finance retirement. Another alternative is downsizing to a smaller home and using the proceeds from the sale of your current home for living expenses. This can also help you meet non-financial needs, such as finding a home that's close to your adult children, requires less yard work or is more suitable for aging in place.\nAs you weigh your options, a good place to start is by getting a free credit report to see if there are any issues that might hold you back from getting a reverse mortgage. END