What information is a mortgage loan originator prohibited from asking a borrower applying for a mortgage?

A mortgage loan originator is prohibited from inquiring about a borrower's receipt of public assistance due to the regulations set forth by the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA) and the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA). These laws are designed to prevent discrimination in lending practices and ensure that all applicants are treated fairly, regardless of their financial background.

Asking about public assistance can lead to biases against applicants who rely on such support, potentially impacting their chances of securing a mortgage. Instead, loan originators can focus on information that is relevant to the applicant's ability to repay the loan, such as annual income, credit history, and employment status. These factors are more directly related to assessing creditworthiness without the risk of discrimination.

By limiting questions about public assistance, the laws promote equitable lending practices and protect vulnerable populations from unfair treatment in the mortgage process.