Finance
Fact-checked

At SmartCapitalMind, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

How Do I Write a Financial Assistance Letter?

Emma G.
Emma G.

There are two different situations in which you might need to write a financial assistance letter, either to request help in paying tuition for a school or camp or to ask for an adjustment to your mortgage to avoid foreclosure. In either situation, the letter should be in traditional business letter format. The body of the letter should clearly state your current financial situation; what caused the hardship; and what you would like the school, camp, or mortgage company to do about it. If possible, you should include financial statements or other paperwork that proves your claim of financial hardship.

Before you begin writing your financial assistance letter, find out the name and title of the person you are writing to. If writing to a school or camp, call the financial assistance office to get these details. Your mortgage paperwork or foreclosure notice should have the name of a representative to whom your letter can be directed. Writing the letter to a specific person shows you did your research and makes it more likely that the letter will reach the intended recipient.

Students needing help with tuition may want to write a financial assistance letter.
Students needing help with tuition may want to write a financial assistance letter.

In the first paragraph, you should state who you are and why you are writing a financial assistance letter. Do not go into detail yet. Just give a brief overview of your reasons for needing assistance. For example, you could write, "My parent is in the hospital," or "The change in our variable interest rate has made us unable to afford our mortgage payment." Finally, explain what you want the person to do to help you.

Financial assistance letters should be written in traditional business letter format.
Financial assistance letters should be written in traditional business letter format.

Depending on which type of financial assistance letter you are writing, you should use the second paragraph to either explain how you got into this financial situation or describe why you feel you deserve tuition assistance. If you are asking for help with your mortgage, explain what caused you to fall behind. Make it clear that you intend to pay what you can but are unable to make the full payments. Explain when and if you expect your financial situation to improve.

It is important to clearly state the current money situation and what caused it in a financial assistance letter.
It is important to clearly state the current money situation and what caused it in a financial assistance letter.

If asking for tuition assistance, explain why you want to go to this particular school or camp. Mention the programs and services that attracted you. Describe how you think the school or camp can benefit from having you there and how you will benefit from going.

In the closing paragraph, thank the addressee for his or her time and consideration. If you have included any financial statements or other documents with your letter, let the person know what they are. This will be particularly helpful if the two get separated after the letter has been opened.

You might also Like

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Students needing help with tuition may want to write a financial assistance letter.
      By: Robert Kneschke
      Students needing help with tuition may want to write a financial assistance letter.
    • Financial assistance letters should be written in traditional business letter format.
      By: Andres Rodriguez
      Financial assistance letters should be written in traditional business letter format.
    • It is important to clearly state the current money situation and what caused it in a financial assistance letter.
      By: p a w e l
      It is important to clearly state the current money situation and what caused it in a financial assistance letter.
    • One reason to write a financial assistant letter is to ask for a mortgage adjustment to help avoid foreclosure.
      By: Andy Dean
      One reason to write a financial assistant letter is to ask for a mortgage adjustment to help avoid foreclosure.
    • A single mother seeking help to pay school tuition may write a financial assistance letter.
      By: Bryan Creely
      A single mother seeking help to pay school tuition may write a financial assistance letter.