Got Disputes on Your Credit Report? Read This Before Applying for an FHA Loan!

FHA Loan Rules on Disputed Accounts (Updated 2025)

If you’re applying for an FHA loan, but your credit report shows disputed accounts, you need to understand how this can affect your approval. In this video, Joel Lobb — licensed Kentucky Loan Officer (NMLS #57916) — explains the FHA’s updated rules for handling disputed accounts, what counts as “significant derogatory,” and what you can do to improve your chances of approval.

💡 You’ll learn:

• What FHA considers a “disputed account”

• When disputed accounts must be resolved or removed

• The $1,000 threshold rule for disputed derogatory accounts

• Exceptions for medical collections and identity theft

• How to fix credit report disputes before underwriting

FHA Loans & Disputed Accounts: What You Must Know to Avoid Denial

Updated: 2025 | By Joel Lobb, Kentucky Mortgage Loan Officer

📖 Reading Time: 5 minutes

Quick Answer: If you dispute a negative account, it won't automatically disappear from FHA underwriting. Disputed accounts—especially derogatory ones—can derail your mortgage approval. The good news? Understanding FHA's dispute rules puts you back in control.

Introduction

Here's a hard truth that catches many Kentucky homebuyers off guard: if you dispute a negative account, it won't automatically disappear from FHA underwriting. In fact, disputed accounts—especially derogatory ones—can derail your mortgage approval entirely.

I've worked with over 1,300 Kentucky families, and I've seen this exact issue cost borrowers thousands in delays or forced them to start their application over. The good news? Understanding FHA's dispute rules puts you back in control.

In this guide, you'll learn:

• How FHA actually treats disputed accounts (it's different than you think)
• The critical $1,000 threshold that triggers manual review
• Which disputes don't count against you
• Exactly what to do before you apply

What Counts as a Disputed Derogatory Account?

FHA defines disputed derogatory accounts as negative items on your credit report that you're actively disputing. These typically include:

• Collections accounts (unpaid debts sold to collection agencies)
• Charge-offs (accounts creditors wrote off as uncollectible)
• Recent late payments (30+ days late in the last 24 months)

Accounts That DON'T Count (Good News!)

Not all disputed accounts hurt your FHA approval. These are safe:

• Medical collections (always excluded, even if disputed)
• Zero-balance accounts (paid off or settled)
• Non-derogatory disputes (minor errors on good accounts)

Why this matters: FHA underwriters want to see your real financial picture. An inflated credit score that hides payment problems is a red flag for mortgage default risk.

The Critical $1,000 Threshold: FHA's Non-Negotiable Rule

Here's where many borrowers get caught off guard.

If your total disputed derogatory (non-medical) accounts add up to $1,000 or more, FHA requires manual underwriting. This means:

• Your loan won't auto-approve through DU or LPA (Fannie Mae's automated systems)
• A human underwriter will review your entire file
• You'll need documentation proving disputes are valid

Even if an automated system gives you a conditional approval, this rule overrides it.

Example: You have a $600 collection dispute and a $500 charge-off dispute. That's $1,100 total—you've crossed the threshold and triggered manual underwriting, regardless of your credit score.

Disputed Accounts: What FHA Actually Allows

Let's break down the real rules (not assumptions):

Scenario	FHA Rule	What You Should Do
Medical collection disputes	Exempt—don't count	Keep as-is, no action needed
Collections or charge-offs < $1,000 total	No manual underwriting required	Proceed with application
Collections or charge-offs ≥ $1,000 total	Manual underwriting required	Remove or resolve disputes before applying
Identity theft disputes	Can be excluded with documentation	Provide police report or FTC affidavit
Disputes older than 24 months	May not count toward threshold	Discuss with your loan officer
Zero-balance or settled accounts	No action required	Apply normally
Current accounts (never late)	Not derogatory—exempt	No impact on approval

How to Protect Your FHA Approval: Step-by-Step

1Pull All Three Credit Reports

Request free reports from annualcreditreport.com (the only official site). Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion often show different information.

2Identify Disputed Accounts & Calculate Total Balance

List every account you've disputed, note the balance, and add them up. Be honest—include everything marked as disputed.

3Calculate Your Disputed Derogatory Total

Add up only the non-medical collections and charge-offs. If the total is under $1,000, you're in safer territory. If it's $1,000+, plan ahead.

4Make Your Decision

• Under $1,000: You can likely move forward with your application
• $1,000+: Consider removing or resolving disputes before applying

5If You Need to Remove Disputes

Contact each credit bureau directly and request to retract or withdraw your dispute. This removes the "dispute" notation from your report.

Important: Your credit score will likely drop after removing disputes (typically 20-50 points). This is temporary, but it's real. Your loan officer can discuss the impact before you proceed.

6Re-Pull Your Credit Report

Wait 30-45 days, then pull a fresh report to confirm disputes are removed and your score has stabilized.

7Work With Your Loan Officer

Bring your updated credit reports and provide a brief written explanation of any disputes you removed. A knowledgeable FHA loan officer will guide you through the rest.

Common Mistakes That Cost Borrowers

I've seen these happen repeatedly—don't let them happen to you:

Mistake #1: Removing Disputes Without Professional Guidance

Your credit score will drop. If you remove disputes without understanding the impact on your loan approval, you could disqualify yourself unnecessarily. Always consult your loan officer first.

Mistake #2: Confusing "Paid Off" With "Resolved for FHA"

Paying off or settling a disputed account doesn't automatically remove the dispute notation. You still need to formally withdraw the dispute with the credit bureau.

Mistake #3: Thinking Medical Disputes Must Be Removed

Medical collections are exempt from FHA's $1,000 rule. Leave them alone—there's no benefit to removing them, and it just wastes your time.

Mistake #4: Underestimating Lender Overlays

Some lenders have stricter requirements than FHA itself. Before you apply, ask your loan officer about their specific dispute policy. What FHA allows, your lender might not.

Mistake #5: Applying Too Soon After Removing Disputes

Give your credit report time to update (30-45 days minimum). Applying immediately after removing disputes looks suspicious to underwriters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I keep medical collections on my credit report?

A: Yes. FHA always excludes medical collections from the $1,000 threshold, even if disputed.

Q: What happens if I cross the $1,000 threshold?

A: Manual underwriting is required. This isn't a denial—it just means a human reviews your file instead of an automated system.

Q: Do I have to pay off all negative accounts to get FHA approved?

A: No. FHA doesn't require you to pay off old debt. You just need to manage disputes properly.

Q: I'm an identity theft victim—can I still get approved?

A: Yes. Provide documentation (police report, FTC affidavit) and FHA will exclude those accounts.

Q: Will my credit score drop if I remove disputes?

A: Likely yes (20-50 points typically). But your FHA approval odds improve significantly.

Q: Does this $1,000 rule apply to pre-approval?

A: Yes. Pre-approval depends on clean credit reporting, just like final approval.

Why This Matters for Kentucky Homebuyers

As a Kentucky mortgage professional with over 20 years of experience, I've guided more than 1,300 families through situations exactly like this. Disputed accounts are one of the top reasons first-time buyers face unexpected delays or denials.

The difference between success and frustration often comes down to knowing these rules before you apply—not after.

Ready to Protect Your FHA Approval?

Don't let disputed accounts derail your homeownership dreams. I'm here to guide you through every step with personalized attention and expert knowledge of Kentucky's FHA programs.

Schedule your free FHA consultation today!

Next Steps

Here's what I recommend:

1. Pull your credit reports this week and identify any disputed accounts
2. Calculate your disputed derogatory total to understand where you stand
3. Schedule a free consultation with an experienced FHA loan officer to review your specific situation
4. Apply for pre-approval once disputes are addressed

Contact Me Today

📧 Email: kentuckyloan@gmail.com

📞 Call/Text: 502-905-3708

I offer free mortgage applications with same-day approvals to keep your process moving quickly. With personalized attention and expert knowledge of Kentucky's housing market, I'll help you achieve your homeownership dreams.

About the Author

Joel Lobb is a Kentucky-licensed Mortgage Loan Officer with over 20 years of experience helping first-time homebuyers and refinance clients navigate FHA, VA, USDA, and KHC programs.

Credentials: NMLS Personal ID: 57916 | Company NMLS ID: 1738461 | View NMLS Consumer Access

Equal Housing Lender

Disclaimer: This website is not endorsed by the FHA, VA, USDA, or any government agency. It is an independent platform created to educate and assist Kentucky homebuyers with expert advice and accessible tools. For official FHA guidelines, visit fha.gov.

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Applying for a Kentucky Mortgage Soon? Don't Dispute that Account       Sounds counterintuitive, I'm sure ...       But until you...

 Got Dispute Comments on Your Credit Report? 

If you've disputed any accounts in the past, chances are your credit report still has dispute comments listed. That might seem harmless—but if you're applying for a mortgage, those comments could delay or even block your loan approval.

 Here’s what you can do:

1. Call each credit bureau (numbers on the graphic).

2. Ask to remove any dispute comments.

3. Verify they’re gone by pulling a fresh consumer credit report.

4. Follow up within 72 hours to confirm it’s been done.

Pro Tip: Do this before your lender pulls your credit. It could save time, stress, and keep your home loan on track.

If you’re not sure where to start, drop a comment or shoot me a message. I’m here to help walk you through the process!

#CreditTips #MortgageReady #HomeLoanHelp #KentuckyMortgage #JoelLobb #CreditRepair #HomebuyerTips #FHA #VA #USDA #KHC #CreditScoreMatters #NMLS57916 #EqualHousingLender

FHA Mortgage Manual Underwriting Video Guidelines

Did you know over 50% of our Kentucky  FHA loans are manual underwrites?

 

Kentucky FHA will consider the borrower’s entire story, including extenuating circumstances and compensating factors, to justify loan approvals. If your borrower falls under any of these conditions, they may benefit from manual underwriting:

• Non-traditional credit / lack of credit
• True extenuating circumstances affecting credit or income history
• Lack of seasoning on a Chapter 13
• Disputed accounts over $1,000
• Frequent job changes in the last 12 months

If you think your borrower could benefit from  manual underwriting call us to learn more about manual underwriting or submit your scenario today.

Lowest Minimum Decision Credit Score 

Maximum Qualifying Ratios (%)

 Acceptable Compensating Factors

All manual underwritten loans require a VOR.

If the borrower does not pay rent a letter of explanation from borrower stating where living rent free.

31/43
• No compensating factors required.
• Energy Efficient Homes may have stretch ratios of 33/45.

37/47
One of the following:
• Verified & documented cash reserves equal to at least three total monthly mortgage payments.
• New total monthly mortgage payment is not more than $100 or 5% higher than previous total monthly housing payment, whichever is less; and there is a documented twelve-month housing payment history with no more than one thirty-day late payment.
• Residual Income per VA chart.

40/40
• Borrower has established credit lines in his/her own name (open for at least six months) but carries no discretionary debt (monthly total housing payment is only open installment account and borrower can document that revolving credit has been paid off in full monthly for at least the past six months).

40/50
Two of the following:
• Verified & documented cash reserves equal to at least three total monthly mortgage payments.
• New total monthly mortgage payment is not more than $100 or 5% higher than previous total monthly housing payment, whichever is less; and there is a documented twelve-month housing payment history with no more than one thirty-day late payment.
• Verified and documented significant additional income that is not considered effective income and likely to continue (part-time or seasonal income verified for more than 1 year but less than 2 years). The income if it were included in gross effective income is sufficient to reduce the qualifying ratios to not more than 37/47.
• Residual Income per VA chart.

Residual Income

Calculating Residual Income

Residual income is calculated in accordance with the following:
• Calculate the total gross monthly income of all occupying borrowers
• Deduct from the gross monthly income the following items:
➢ State income taxes
➢ Federal income taxes
➢ Municipal or other income taxes
➢ Retirement or Social Security
➢ Proposed total monthly fixed mortgage payment
➢ All recurring monthly debt obligations
➢ Estimated maintenance and utilities ($0.14 x sq. ft.)
➢ Job related expenses (e.g., child care)

• The difference between the gross monthly income and the deductions above is the residual income

Compensating Factors

Using Residual Income as a Compensating Factor
Count all members of the household of the occupying borrowers without regard to the nature of their relationship and without regard to whether they are joining on title or the note.
Exception: As stated in the VA Guidelines, the mortgagee may omit any individuals from “family size” who are fully supported from a source of verified income which is not included in the effective income in the loan analysis. These Individuals must voluntarily provide sufficient documentation to verify their income to qualify for this exemption.

From the table below, select the applicable loan amount and household size. If residual income equals or exceeds the corresponding amount on the table, it may be cited as a compensating factor.

Accept Risk Class required downgrade to Manual Underwriting

The Mortgagee must downgrade and manually underwrite any mortgage that received an accept or approve/eligible recommendation if:
• The mortgage file contains information or documentation that cannot be evaluated by TOTAL.
• Additional information, not considered in the AUS recommendation affects the overall insurability of the mortgage.
• The borrower has $1,000 or more collectively in Disputed Derogatory Credit Accounts.
• The date of the borrower’s bankruptcy discharge as reflected on bankruptcy documents is within two years from the date of the case number assignment.
• The case number assignment date is within three years of the date of the transfer of title through a Pre-Foreclosure Sale (Short Sale).
• The case number assignment date is within three years of the date of the transfer of title through a foreclosure sale.
• The case number assignment date is within three years of the date of the transfer of title through a Deed-in-Lieu (DIL) of foreclosure.
• The Mortgage Payment history, for any mortgage trade line reported on the credit report used to score the application, requires a downgrade as defined in Housing Obligations/Mortgage Payment History.
• The Borrower has undisclosed mortgage debt that requires a downgrade.
• Business income shows a greater than 20 percent decline over the analysis period.

https://www.hud.gov/sites/documents/fy16_sfhb_mod4_under.pdf

Disputes on Credit Report and Kentucky Mortgage Loan Approval?

Applying for a Kentucky Mortgage Soon?

Don't Dispute that Account

     Sounds counterintuitive, I'm sure ...

     But until you've talked to me (or your own local Mortgage Originator), don't even think about disputing an account found on your Credit Report.

     Why?  Unknowingly, you can be creating real problems for your Mortgage Application and Approval. 

     Consider this:  A creditor can refuse to change their disputed rating.  Too many disputed accounts on a Credit Report may result in your loan being denied.

     Is that a really a risk you want to run at such an important time?

     A formal dispute placed on a car loan, student loan, credit card, collection ... or even worse, a mortgage loan ... can cause havoc for your new Mortgage Application.  So ...

     Slow down.  Contact me ... and let's talk.  We'll analyze all your options and see what action is appropriate and in your best interest.  

     What is not commonly known:  Credit Bureaus and Automated Underwriting systems now reflect an evolution that has taken place over the last few years regarding credit disputes.  

     Both the Bureaus and Underwriting systems have been re-worked to recognize disputes as a negative impact and rating on a Borrower's "approvability" or "credit-worthiness".  

     But these changes have taken place without much fanfare and public recognition.  And because of that, hopeful Borrowers have all too often been contributing to the issues faced within their Mortgage Process later.     

     Prospective Mortgage Applicants (and the public in general) must be educated to this fact.  The temptation to dispute an account must be avoided, if hoping to finance a home via a Mortgage Loan soon.       

     If a Creditor offers-up a path to formally dispute your account ... just say no!  At least prior to our talking.

     There may be a better course of action available to you.  During our conversation we'll weigh your options and best course as it pertains to your Mortgage and your Approval.  

     But providing solid, written proof and evidence regarding your stance on the account in question, WITHOUT placing a formal "dispute" on said account is often the most prudent course of action ... 

     Remember:  You must have legitimate data and written proof in order to accomplish your goal successfully.  But when you have that proof, your account can be "re-rated" or the derogatory rating can be deleted from your Credit Report. 

     Any "correction" should come from the Creditor (Credit Card company/bank/etc.) and immediately sent to each of the 3 Credit Bureaus (Experian, TransUnion, Equifax).  

     This final step trips-up way too many, as it's assumed that the Creditor(s) will share the new updated information with the 3 Credit Bureaus.  They may or may not.  

     Bottomline:  It remains YOUR responsibility to inform each of the 3 Bureaus.  

     Play it safe and follow through with this important task, as it's in your best interest to see that it's successfully done.   

     When a correction is reported to the Bureaus, they will, in turn, update your Credit Report.  While each case is different (and I do not represent that all results will be successful or as hoped for) ... you may head off potential issues with your Mortgage Approval by acting pro-actively.  Consult with a Credit Repair Specialist if uncertain of corrective steps to be taken.

     In the modern Mortgage Process, the experience level of the Mortgage Originator you choose can't be understated.  Successful navigation through the steps of addressing credit disputes and credit analysis is just one example of this fact.

FHA CHANGES TO HANDLING OF COLLECTIONS, JUDGEMENTS AND DISPUTED ACCOUNTS ON CREDIT REPORT

FHA CHANGES TO HANDLING OF COLLECTIONS

AND DISPUTED ACCOUNTS

FHA recently released Mortgagee Letters 2013-24 and 2013-25, to amend guidance on collections and disputed accounts and to clarify guidance on judgments. These changes will become effective for all case numbers assigned on or after October 15, 2013. This will apply to all FHA programs, with the exception of non-credit qualifying streamline refinances and Home Equity Conversion Mortgages. The changes are found below. Should you have any questions, please contact your Account Manager.

1.           Credit Analysis of Collections and Judgments. Collections and judgments may indicate a borrower's disregard for credit obligations and must be considered in the creditworthiness analysis. The guidance below applies to loans with collection accounts and all judgments. Medical collections and charge off accounts are excluded from this guidance.

• Applicable to Manually Underwritten Loans: The lender must document reasons for approving a mortgage when the borrower has collection accounts or judgments.

Regardless of the amount of outstanding collection accounts or judgments, the lender must determine if the collection account or judgment was a result of:

• The borrower's disregard for financial obligations;
•  The borrower's inability to manage debt; or
• Extenuating circumstances.

The borrower must provide a letter of explanation with supporting documentation for each outstanding collection account and judgment. The explanation and supporting documentation must be consistent with other credit information in the file.

• Applicable to Loans Run Through TOTAL Mortgage Scorecard: TOTAL Mortgage Scorecard Accept/Approve - There are no documentation or letter of explanation requirements for loans with collection accounts or judgments run through TOTAL Mortgage Scorecard receiving an "Accept/Approve" despite the presence of collection accounts or judgments. These accounts have been already taken into consideration in the borrower's credit score. If TOTAL Mortgage Scorecard generates a"Refer," the lender must manually underwrite the loan in accordance with the guidance above applicable to manually underwritten loans with collection accounts and judgments. 

All medical collections and charge off accounts are excluded from this guidance and do not require resolution.

2.           Capacity Analysis of Collections and Judgments.

Collections - FHA does not require collection accounts to be paid off as a condition of mortgage approval. However, FHA does recognize that collection efforts by the creditor for unpaid collections could affect the borrower's ability to repay the mortgage. To mitigate this risk, FHA is requiring a capacity analysis of collection accounts with an aggregate balance equal to or greater than $2,000, as described below.

If the total outstanding balance of all collection accounts for all borrowers is equal to or greater than $2,000, the lender must perform a capacity analysis as detailed below. Unless excluded under state law, collection accounts of a non-purchasing spouse in a community property state are included in the cumulative balance.

All medical collections and charge off accounts are excluded from this guidance and do not require resolution.

Capacity analysis includes any of the following actions:

• At the time of or prior to closing, payment in full of the collection account (verification of acceptable source of funds required).
• The borrower makes payment arrangements with the creditor. If the borrower has entered into a payment arrangement with the creditor, a credit report or letter from the creditor verifying the monthly payment is required. The monthly payment must be included in the borrower's debt-to-income ratio.
• If evidence of a payment arrangement is not available, the lender must calculate the monthly payment using 5% of the outstanding balance of each collection, and include the monthly payment in the borrower's debt-to-income ratio.

TOTAL Mortgage Scorecard Accept/Approve/Refer - Regardless of the Accept/Approve/Refer recommendation by TOTAL Mortgage Scorecard, the lender must include the payment amount in the calculation of the borrower's debt-to-income ratio.

               Judgments - FHA requires judgments to be paid off before the mortgage loan is eligible for FHA insurance. An exception to the payoff of a court ordered judgment may be made if the borrower has an agreement with the creditor to make regular and timely payments. The borrower must provide a copy of the agreement and evidence that payments were made on time in accordance with the agreement, and a minimum of three months of scheduled payments have been made prior to credit approval.

Borrowers are not allowed to prepay scheduled payments in order to meet the required minimum of three months of payments. Furthermore, lenders are instructed to include the payment amount in the agreement in the calculation of the borrower's debt-to-income ratio.

FHA requires judgments of a non-purchasing spouse in a community property state to be paid in full, or meet the exception guidance for judgments above, unless excluded by state law.

    3.           Handling of Disputed Accounts - The existence of potentially inaccurate information on a borrower's credit report resulting in a dispute must be reviewed by an underwriter. Accounts that appear as disputed on the borrower's credit report are not considered in the credit score utilized by TOTAL Mortgage Scorecard in rating the application. Therefore, FHA requires the lender to consider them in the underwriting analysis as described below.

With this ML, FHA is revising policy on manual downgrades for applications with disputed accounts to reflect the risk associated with derogatory and non-derogatory disputed accounts for factors such as age and size of outstanding balance.

Disputed Derogatory Accounts Indicated on the Credit Report - If the credit report utilized by TOTAL Mortgage Scorecard indicates that the borrower is disputing derogatory credit accounts, the borrower must provide a letter of explanation and documentation supporting the basis of the dispute. The lender must analyze the documentation provided for consistency with other credit information in the file to determine if the derogatory credit account should be considered in the underwriting analysis.

Guidance for TOTAL Mortgage Scorecard Accept/Approve loans with disputed accounts.

Disputed Derogatory Credit Accounts greater than or equal to $1,000	If the cumulative outstanding balance of disputed derogatory credit accounts of all borrowers is equal to or greater than $1,000, the mortgage application must be downgraded to a"Refer" and a Direct Endorsement underwriter is required to manually underwrite the loan as described above.
Disputed Derogatory Credit Accounts less than $1,000	If the cumulative outstanding balance of disputed derogatory credit accounts of all borrowers is less than $1,000, a downgrade is not required.
Excluded Accounts	Disputed medical accounts are excluded from the $1,000 limit and do not require documentation. Disputed derogatory credit accounts resulting from identity theft, credit card theft, or unauthorized use are also excluded from the $1,000 limit. However, the lender must provide in the case binder a credit report, letter from the creditor, or other appropriate documentation to support the dispute, such as a police report disputing the fraudulent charges.

Disputed derogatory credit accounts are defined as follows:

• disputed charge-off accounts,
• disputed collection accounts, and
• disputed accounts with late payments in the last 24 months.

Disputed derogatory credit accounts of a non-purchasing spouse in a community property state are not included in the cumulative balance for determining if the mortgage application is downgraded to a "Refer".

Non-derogatory disputed accounts are excluded from the $1,000 cumulative total.

Non-Derogatory Disputed Accounts and Disputed Accounts Not Indicated on the Credit Report - Non-derogatory disputed accounts include the following types of accounts:

• disputed accounts with zero balance,
• disputed accounts with late payments aged 24 months or greater, and
• disputed accounts that are current and paid as agreed.

 If a borrower is disputing non-derogatory accounts, or is disputing accounts which are not indicated on the credit report as being disputed, the lender is not required to downgrade the application to a "Refer." However, the lender must analyze the effect of the disputed accounts on the borrower's ability to repay the loan. If the dispute results in the borrower's monthly debt payments utilized in computing the debt-to-income ratio being less than the amount indicated on the credit report, the borrower must provide documentation of the lower payments.

If you have loans pending that these changes will affect, be sure to order the FHA case number prior to October 15, 2013.

-- 

Joel Lobb (NMLS#57916)
Senior  Loan Officer
502-905-3708 cell
kentuckyloan@gmail.com

Fill out my form for mortgage pre-approval by clicking this link!

Can you get a Kentucky Mortgage Loan with Bad Credit or less than Perfect Credit?

Kentucky Mortgage Loan with Bad Credit

If you are looking to get a mortgage loan in 2020 in the state of Kentucky and you have past credit problems, there maybe some hope for Kentucky Home-buyers to buy a home of their own.

 Before we look at some possible home-buying programs, let's first look at what is considered Bad Credit, or less than perfect credit. 

Most of the times when borrowers say they have bad credit, they mean one of the following:

Past or Current Bankruptcies

Low credit scores or fico scores

Collections on credit report showing unpaid or paid.

Delinquent or behind on credit cards, mortgage, car loan payments

Foreclosure or short sale where they lost a home to default

Owe back taxes to the Federal Government.

Defaulted Student Loans

Delinquent Child Support Obligations
Disputed accounts on credit report

Below I have listed one of the most popular programs Kentucky Home Buyers need to consider when buying a home in 2020 if they have experienced some of the credit issues mentioned above:


When it comes to getting a mortgage loan with past credit problems, FHA is probably going to be your best bet.

They're the most lenient on credit scores, down payment requirements and credit history when it comes to qualifying for a Kentucky Home Loan.

I have listed below some of the requirements you must overcome to get approved for a Kentucky FHA home loan.

Kentucky FHA Mortgage Loans:

The credit score requirements for Kentucky FHA home loans:

FHA says on paper in their written guidelines that they will insure a FHA loan down to 500 - 579 with a 10% down payment or 580+ with a 3.5% down payment. However, in the real world of lending in the secondary market, most lenders will not adhere to these guidelines.

Most FHA investors will want a 620 middle credit score, but they're a few that will go by the written FHA guidelines above for credit scores, but very few. Your best bet is to get with a loan officer and get your scores up to at least 580 so you can have a better shot of getting approved and access to more FHA lenders.

Be aware there are a lot of credit scores out there, but each lender must pull their own credit report and credit scores to determine your creditworthiness. I would shop around first to see what the requirements are for each FHA lender before they pulled your credit report.

Mortgage lenders use the FICO score model below for each credit bureau when they look at your credit scores.

MyFICO is now selling additional score versions to the public.  These include three scores most often used by mortgage lenders:

• Experian FICO Score 2  (also known as EX-98 or Risk Model v2)
• Transunion FICO Score 4  (also known as TU-04 or Transunion FICO Risk Score Classic 04)
• Equifax FICO Score 5  (also known as EQ-04 or Beacon 5).  

Bankruptcy Requirements for Kentucky FHA Home Loans:

FHA states in their published guidelines that if you had a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy, you must wait 2 years from the discharge date to reapply for a FHA insured mortgage loan. 

If you had a Chapter 13 Bankruptcy and have a 12 month on-time payment history with the courts, you can potentially get approved for a FHA loan if you get permission from the trustee and qualify with the Chapter 13 payment plan in your debt to income ratio. If you have been in the plan for over 12 months, and have a good pay history, you can submit your paperwork for FHA approval. 

For example, let's say you have been in the Chapter 13 repayment plan for 3 years and you want to buy a home using FHA financing. You could go ahead and petition the Chapter 13 trustee for approval from the courts to get a home loan. The trustee of the Chapter 13 courts will want to know your new loan payment with the home loan, so make sure you know how much  you want to borrow before you apply ,. 

Collections on Credit Report Requirements for Kentucky FHA Home Loans:

: 

• If the credit report shows a cumulative balance of $2,000 or more for collection accounts: 
• The debt(s) must be paid in full prior to or at closing, or 
• Payment arrangements must be made with the creditor and the monthly payment included in the DTI, or 
• A monthly payment of 5% of the outstanding balances of each collection must be included in the borrower’s DTI. 
• Collection accounts of non-borrowing spouses in a community property state must be included in the $2,000 cumulative balance and analyzed as part of the Borrower’s ability to pay all collection accounts. Community property states are Arizona, California, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin
• Medical collections and charge offs are excluded from this
  guidance.B. Judgments – Loans for borrowers with outstanding judgments are
  generally not acceptable unless the following documentation is obtained.
  a. Judgment must be on the credit report that is linked to the TOTAL
  Scorecard findings and the findings must be “approve/eligible” or
  “accept/accept.”
  b. If the judgment will not be paid off and released prior to the
  closing, evidence of a payment agreement may be considered. The
  payment agreement must be in writing and provided at the time of
  underwriting. Crescent will require evidence that 12 months
  satisfactory payments have been made as scheduled. Borrowers
  may not pre-pay scheduled payments in order to meet this
  requirement. The monthly payment must be considered in the
  borrower’s debt-to-income ratio for qualifying.
  c. Any judgments that are discovered in the processing of the loan
  that ARE NOT on the credit report linked to the TOTAL findings
  require the loan to be manually downgraded to “refer” status.
  Crescent does not approve loans that must be manually
  downgraded.
  d. A subordination agreement will be required for any judgment that
  is also a lien against the borrower and/or the subject property.
  C. Disputed Accounts – Because disputed accounts are not generally
  considered in the borrower’s credit report FHA will now require loans of
  borrowers who have derogatory disputed accounts with cumulative
  balances of $1000 or more (excluding medical) to be downgraded to
  “refer” findings and manually underwritten. As you are aware, Crescent
  does not approve loans that require manual underwriting.
  NOTE 1: Disputed derogatory credit account of a non-purchasing spouse
  in a community property state are not included in the cumulative balance
  for purposes of determining if the mortgage application must be
  downgraded to a “refer.”
  NOTE 2: Disputed medical collections are excluded from the $1000 limit
  as are derogatory credit accounts resulting from identity theft, credit theft
  unauthorized use, etc. However, documentation must be provided to
  conclusively support the disputed status. Documentation might entail
  police reports, letters from the creditor, etc.
  II. ML 2013-26 – Back to Work-Extenuating Circumstances
  The guidance provided in ML 13-26 requires loans to be manually
  underwritten. For this reason Crescent cannot approve loans that need these
  credit underwriting leniencies. III. ML 2013-29 – Application of Unused Funds from

Short-sale or Foreclosure Guidelines for a Kentucky FHA Loan:

If you have experienced a short-sale or foreclosure, FHA states that you must wait 3 years from the date of the sale to obtain FHA financing again. And important note is this: The waiting period starts not when you were discharged from the home or bankruptcy, the waiting period starts when the home is sold and the deed transferred at the courthouse. 

This is important to remember because a lot of people think it starts when they vacate the home or when there bankruptcy is discharged if the mortgage was in the bankruptcy, but it does not!!! The date used to end the waiting period starts when the deed is transferred at the courthouse from the owner to back to bank or whomever buys the home in the default. 

Delinquent Federal Debt (Taxes, Student Loans) Kentucky FHA Loan Requirements:

If you have a delinquency with the Federal Government, this could hurt your chances of getting approved for a FHA backed Mortgage Loan. Here is why:

All FHA participants are ran through the CAVIRS Alert System administered by HUD to check to see if the mortgage applicant is delinquent  to the Federal Government. This usually arises from an IRS income tax lien, over-payment on a social security claim, or lastly, a defaulted student loan. 

A lot of the times FHA borrower don't realize that if they don't pay there Federal backed student loans, they go into default and this will hold you up from getting a FHA loan or possibly they will hold your tax refund. 

If you have been delinquent on your student loans, you have to call and get on a 9 month repayment plan with them and they will clear you of your CAVIRS Alert. The payment plan can be as little as 5 or $10 a month, but the important thing is to get started so this will improve your credit rating too along with releasing the liens against you for other federal assistance like tax refunds, social security payments and benefits to name just a few. 

I have done many FHA loans in Kentucky where they have rehabbed their Student loans if they are backed by Federal government and got them loan after 9 months. 

If you happen to have an agreement already worked-out with the IRS or student loan creditors, sometimes we can take that arrangement and get you approved sometime with FHA depending on the lender. 

Child Support Obligations Kentucky FHA Loan Requirements:

If the credit report shows a delinquent child support agreement, the FHA Government Underwriter will want to see the current child support agreement and what the monthly payment is so as to make sure they have your debt to income ratio figured correctly. You can have a delinquency report of child support on your credit report and still get an FHA loan. 

 It is okay to be paying child support ,a lot of times it shows on a borrower's pay stubs, and if so, we simply use that child support obligation to use for debt to income ratio qualifying. 

As you can see, it is quite possible to buy a home in Kentucky with past bad credit. I work with a lot of mortgage applicants that has experienced credit issues in the past, but with the right direction and guidance, I can possibly get you into a home in 2020. 

Put my 20 years of Kentucky Mortgage Experience to work for you . 

Joel Lobb (NMLS#57916)
Senior  Loan Officer

American Mortgage Solutions, Inc.

10602 Timberwood Circle Suite 3

Louisville, KY 40223

Company ID #1364 | MB73346

Text/call 502-905-3708
kentuckyloan@gmail.com

Labels: bad credit, Bankruptcy, child support, collections, credit, Credit Score, credit score and bankruptcy, Disputed Accounts, Fico Score, foreclosure, Judgements, kentucky mortgage bad credit, student loans

Disclaimer: No statement on this site is a commitment to make a loan. Loans are subject to borrower qualifications, including income, property evaluation, sufficient equity in the home to meet Loan-to-Value requirements, and final credit approval. Approvals are subject to underwriting guidelines, interest rates, and program guidelines and are subject to change without notice based on applicant's eligibility and market conditions. Refinancing an existing loan may result in total finance charges being higher over the life of a loan. Reduction in payments may reflect a longer loan term. Terms of any loan may be subject to payment of points and fees by the applicant  Equal Opportunity Lender. NMLS#57916 http://www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org/

-- Some products and services may not be available in all states. Credit and collateral are subject to approval. Terms and conditions apply. This is not a commitment to lend. Programs, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. The content in this marketing advertisement has not been approved, reviewed, sponsored or endorsed by any department or government agency. Rates are subject to change and are subject to borrower(s) qualification.

If you are an individual with disabilities who needs accommodation, or you are having difficulty using our website to apply for a loan, please contact us at 502-905 3708.  

Louisville Kentucky Mortgage Broker Offering FHA, VA, USDA, Conventional, and KHC Zero Down Payment Home Loans | October 9, 2018 at 3:33 pm | Tags: deeds-in-lieu of foreclosure, fha foreclosure, fha mortgage, Foreclosure, foreclosure hud ky, foreclosures, housing, kentucky fha mortgage, Short Sale or Deed-in-Lieu | Categories: foreclosure, HUD Foreclosure, KY FHA LOANS | URL: https://wp.me/p1gxai-3iE