Skip to main content
An official website of the United States government
(855) 411-2372
Submit a Complaint
Search

I am married or was previously married, and I am applying for a mortgage loan or home equity line of credit in my own name. Can a lender or broker ask me about my spouse or former spouse?

A creditor may request information about your spouse or former spouse only in certain cases.

Generally, a creditor such as a lender or broker may request information about your spouse or former spouse only in the following cases:

  • Your spouse or former spouse will be allowed to use the account
  • Your spouse or former spouse will be responsible for paying debts on the account
  • You are relying on your spouse’s income or former spouse’s income to repay the credit requested
  • You reside in a “community property” state
  • You are relying on property located in a “community property” state to repay the credit requested
  • You are relying on alimony, child support, or separate maintenance payments from a spouse or former spouse to repay the credit requested

Don't see what you're looking for?

Browse related questions

Search for your question

Was this answer helpful to you?

Please do not share any personally identifiable information (PII), including, but not limited to: your name, address, phone number, email address, Social Security number, account information, or any other information of a sensitive nature.