What is an FHA Case Number on FHA Home Loans

This blog will cover and discuss the FHA case number on new FHA mortgage applications. We will also discuss transfers from one lender to a new lender. FHA loans are the most popular loan program in the U.S. Borrowers with lower prior bad credit scores can benefit from FHA loans compared to conventional loans. Not all lenders have the same lending guidelines. Mortgage lenders can have lender overlays. 

Lenders will consider your debt-to-income ratio on your ability to repay your mortgage loan. HUD guidelines generally allow for a higher debt-to-income ratio than other loan programs.

HUD, the parent of FHA, created and launched FHA loans so first-time homebuyers and buyers with less than-perfect credit can qualify for a home loan. HUD’s mission is to promote homeownership to hard-working American families by making homeownership affordable. In the following paragraphs, we will cover what the FHA case number is and how the FHA case number process works.

What is the Definition of an FHA Case Number

An FHA case number is a unique identifier assigned to a specific FHA-insured mortgage loan. The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) uses case numbers to track and manage the various loans it insures. When a borrower applies for an FHA-insured home loan, the lender initiates the loan process by obtaining an FHA case number. The FHA case number is crucial for tracking and managing the loan. It is used in various documents and systems related to the FHA-insured loan, including endorsements, claims, and other administrative processes. 

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How Does the FHA Case Number Process Work

Here’s how the FHA case number process generally works: The borrower applies for an FHA-insured mortgage loan through a HUD-approved lender. The lender submits the necessary information of the borrower and the loan to the FHA for approval. This includes details such as borrower information, property details, and terms.

Once HUD receives the loan information, it assigns a unique case number to that specific loan application. HUS reviews the loan application and, if everything meets its requirements, provides approval for the loan.

With FHA approval, the lender can proceed with processing and underwriting the loan. If the loan is approved and closes, it becomes an FHA-insured loan, and the FHA case number remains associated with that loan throughout its life. Borrowers and lenders use the FHA case number for reference when communicating with the FHA or accessing loan information. It helps ensure that all parties can easily identify and track the specific FHA-insured loan.

Importance of Case Numbers on FHA Loans

A mandatory requirement for all FHA loans is the inclusion of Case Numbers. The FHA Case Number, a distinctive 10-digit identifier, is allocated to each borrower’s loan file. The assignment of the Case Number is carried out through the case number assignment on FHA Connection. The term “case” refers to the specific FHA loan to which this number is assigned. Irrespective of whether it is a purchase or refinance, the Case Number is obligatory for every FHA loan and is assigned when a borrower applies for such loans.

How To Read FHA Case Number

The initial three digits of an FHA case number indicate the geographical area, including the county and state. The concluding three digits correspond to the ACT sections where FHA Insurance was issued for each property.

You can find the case number at the top of each page in a completed FHA home appraisal.

When a borrower utilizes an FHA loan to purchase a home, the assigned case number pertains to the purchased property. While case numbers can be transferred from one borrower to another, they cannot be transferred from one property to another.

How HUD Case Number Connections Work

Once a home buyer, pre-approved for an FHA loan, initiates the FHA loan process, the lender must acquire a Case Number for the property specified in the buyer’s contract. Nevertheless, the Case Number becomes null and void if the buyer opts not to proceed with the home purchase.

Getting a New FHA Case Number

If a borrower opts to acquire an additional property, obtaining a new Case Number for the second property becomes necessary. In the given scenario, should a different homebuyer wish to buy the initial property previously canceled by the initial borrower, the only requirement is for the new homebuyer to have the Case Number for the initially canceled property transferred to them. In cases where multiple lenders are involved, it can lead to delays in the mortgage process. Lenders holding the original case numbers must facilitate the release of the case Numbers to the new lender.

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How Long Is The FHA Case Number Valid

If an FHA loan with an assigned case number does not close within six months, the initial FHA case number will be voided. In the scenario where FHA modifies the HUD 4000.1 FHA Handbook, replacing it with a revised HUD Handbook that includes changes such as an increase in FHA MIP.

The changes on the updated revised HUD 4000.1 FHA Handbook, the alterations become effective for case numbers assigned on or after the date of the updated FHA programs and guidelines.

FHA case numbers assigned before this date will continue to be underwritten based on the guidelines before the changes as long as the FHA Loan closes within six months.

Benefits of FHA Loans

HUD established mortgage guidelines that are accommodating in terms of down payments and credit requirements. As the overseeing entity of the FHA, HUD aims to enable diligent Americans to achieve homeownership. FHA loans prove advantageous for those with limited funds for a down payment, lower credit scores, higher debt-to-income ratios, bankruptcy or a prior housing event.

Thanks to the government guarantee, lenders have the flexibility to provide FHA loans for home purchases with a minimal 3.5% down payment.

Homebuyers need a credit score as low as 580, all while offering attractive mortgage rates. FHA loans are popular among homebuyers, especially those with less-than-perfect credit and lower credit scores. Remember that guidelines may be subject to change, so it’s essential to verify the latest update on the HUD 4000.1 FHA Handbook with a mortgage professional.

HUD Down Payment Requirements on FHA Loans

The down payment requirement on FHA loans differs depending on the credit score. If you have at least a 580 credit score, the down payment required is 3.5% of the purchase price. If your credit scores fall under 580 and down to 500, a 10% down payment is required on FHA loans. The low down payment requirement makes it possible for renters with a small down payment to become homeowners.

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HUD Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP)

FHA loans require borrowers to pay an upfront mortgage insurance premium (UFMIP) at closing and an annual mortgage insurance premium (MIP) throughout the life of the loan. This is to protect the lender in case of default. FHA loan limits vary by county and are adjusted annually. There are limits on the maximum loan amount you can borrow based on the property’s location.

FHA 203(k) Rehabilitation Loans

HUD offers acquisition and renovation loans for one to four units of owner-occupant homers. HUD offers a 203(k) program that allows borrowers to finance a home’s purchase and rehabilitation costs in one loan. FHA loans do not have prepayment penalties, allowing borrowers to pay off the mortgage early without incurring additional fees.

We highly recommend you contact multiple lenders to compare their requirements and terms is recommended if you’re considering an FHA loan.

It’s crucial to note that individual lenders may have additional requirements or overlays beyond the basic HUD guidelines.  You should check the official HUD website or consult a mortgage professional familiar with FHA loan guidelines for the most current and accurate information. Remember that these guidelines may have been updated or changed without notice.

HUD Agency Guidelines on FHA Loans

Borrowers applying for an FHA loan will be assigned an FHA Case Number. Borrowers will need to meet the minimum agency mortgage guidelines on FHA loans. HUD allows homebuyers to purchase a home with a 3.5% down payment and a 580 credit score.

Borrowers with under 580 down to 500 credit scores can qualify for FHA loans. However, any borrower with under 580 credit scores will need a 10% versus 3.5% down payment.

Borrowers can qualify for an FHA loan with a prior bankruptcy or foreclosure if they meet the minimum waiting period requirements. Outstanding collections and charged-off accounts do not have to be paid to qualify for FHA loans. HUD’s role is to promote homeownership for homebuyers of all types. All FHA borrowers will need an FHA case number. You can only have one FHA case number.

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Qualifying For FHA Loans

FHA loans are the most popular loan program in the U.S.  FHA loans are popular with first-time home buyers, home buyers with outstanding collections and charge-offs, buyers with higher debt-to-income ratios, and homebuyers with little to no credit. Here are the basic HUD guidelines on FHA loans:

• 580 FICO credit score
• 3.5% down payment
• 46.9% front end and 56.9% back end DTI
• Non-Occupant Co-Borrowers allowed
• 100% of the down payment can be gifted
• No Closing Costs: Closing Costs can be covered with seller concessions or lender credit

HUD requires that the property meets HUD agency standards and will be habitable to be eligible for an FHA loan. The HUD appraiser will assess the property to ensure it meets HUD’s minimum property requirements. To qualify for an FHA loan, don’t hesitate to contact us at Gustan Cho Associates at 1-800-900-8569 or text us for a faster response. Or email us at alex@gustancho.com. The Gustan Cho Associates Mortgage Group team is available 7 days a week, evenings, weekends, and holidays.

FAQs: What is an FHA Case Number on FHA Home Loans

• 1. What is an FHA Case Number, and why is it important? An FHA Case Number is a unique identifier assigned to a specific FHA-insured mortgage loan. It is crucial for tracking and managing the loan throughout its life. The case number is used in various documents and systems related to FHA-insured loans, including endorsements, claims, and administrative processes.

• 2. How does the FHA Case Number process work? The borrower applies for an FHA-insured mortgage through a HUD-approved lender. The lender submits necessary information to the FHA for approval, and a unique case number is assigned upon approval. This number remains associated with the loan, helping parties easily identify and track the specific FHA-insured loan.

• 3. What are the benefits of FHA loans? FHA loans are advantageous for those with limited funds for a down payment, lower credit scores, and higher debt-to-income ratios. They offer a minimal 3.5% down payment requirement, lower credit score thresholds, and flexibility for borrowers with past financial challenges.

• 4.What are the down payment requirements for FHA loans? The down payment requirement on FHA loans varies based on credit score. A credit score of at least 580 requires a 3.5% down payment, while scores below 580 to 500 require a 10% down payment. The low down payment makes homeownership accessible for those with limited funds.

• 5. What is the HUD Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP)? FHA loans require borrowers to pay an upfront mortgage insurance premium (UFMIP) at closing and an annual mortgage insurance premium (MIP) throughout the loan’s life. This insurance protects lenders in case of default.

• 6. How are FHA Case Numbers connected to property purchases? The assigned case number pertains to the property purchased using an FHA loan. While case numbers can be transferred from one borrower to another, they cannot be transferred from one property to another.

• 7. How long is an FHA Case Number valid? If an FHA loan with an assigned case number does not close within six months, the initial case number becomes void. Changes in FHA guidelines or programs after the case number assignment date will only apply to loans closing after six months.

• 8. What are the basic HUD guidelines for qualifying for FHA loans? Basic HUD guidelines for FHA loans include a minimum FICO credit score of 580, a 3.5% down payment, front-end DTI of 46.9%, back-end DTI of 56.9%, allowance for non-occupant co-borrowers, and the option for 100% gifted down payment.

• 9. Can FHA loans be used for property rehabilitation? Yes, FHA offers a 203(k) rehabilitation program that allows borrowers to finance a home’s purchase and renovation costs in one loan.

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This blog about What is an FHA Case Number on FHA Home Loans was updated on January 25th, 2024.