
To qualify for a CFPB reverse mortgage, you must be at least 62 years old and own your home outright or have a low balance on your mortgage.
You can use the proceeds from a reverse mortgage to pay off your existing mortgage, but be aware that this may reduce the amount of money you receive in the long run.
The CFPB requires that you receive counseling from a HUD-approved counselor before applying for a reverse mortgage. This counseling session will cover the terms and conditions of the loan, as well as the potential risks involved.
You'll also need to demonstrate that you're financially stable and able to continue making mortgage payments on any existing mortgage, or you'll need to pay off the mortgage in full.
A different take: Reverse Mortgage Counseling Certificate
Qualifications and Requirements
To qualify for a CFPB reverse mortgage, you must meet certain requirements. You must be at least 62 years old to be eligible.
The loan may need to be paid back sooner if you fail to pay property taxes or homeowner's insurance. This can also happen if you don't keep your home in good repair.
Age is a key factor in determining eligibility for a reverse mortgage. You must be at least 62 years old to be considered.
Consumer Protection

As a homeowner considering a reverse mortgage, it's essential to understand your consumer protection rights. You have the right to learn what happens to your reverse mortgage if you have to move out of your home into a healthcare institution.
If you receive a notice of default or foreclosure, act quickly to protect your home. This is crucial, as it can help prevent further damage to your credit score and financial situation.
You should also understand whether your family will inherit your home when you die. This is an important aspect of reverse mortgage planning, as it can impact your loved ones' financial security.
Here are some key things to explore when it comes to your consumer protection rights:
- Learn what happens to your reverse mortgage if you have to move out of your home into a healthcare institution
- Act quickly if you receive a notice of default or foreclosure
- Understand whether your family will inherit your home when you die
Know Your Rights
If you're considering a reverse mortgage, it's essential to know your rights. You have the right to learn what happens to your reverse mortgage if you have to move out of your home into a healthcare institution.

Act quickly if you receive a notice of default or foreclosure. This can be a stressful and overwhelming experience, but being proactive can help you navigate the situation.
Understand whether your family will inherit your home when you die. This is an important consideration, as it can impact your loved ones' financial future.
You have the right to explore your rights and make informed decisions about your reverse mortgage. Don't be afraid to ask questions or seek guidance from a trusted advisor.
33(c)(4) Consumer Liability Limitations
Consumer Liability Limitations are designed to protect a portion of the equity in your dwelling.
Creditors must include any limitations on your liability in the projected total cost of credit.
These limits and agreements can protect a portion of the equity in the dwelling for you or your estate.
A limit on your liability to a certain percentage of the projected value of the home is an example of a limitation on consumer liability that must be included in the projected total cost of credit.
Discover more: Reverse Mortgage Equity Line of Credit

A limit on your liability to the net proceeds from the sale of the property subject to the reverse mortgage is another example.
If the legal obligation between the parties doesn't specify a percentage for the "net proceeds" liability of the consumer, creditors must assume that the costs associated with selling the property will equal 7 percent of the projected sale price.
Suggestion: Reverse Mortgage Short Sale
Common Issues and Concerns
Consider all your options before taking out a reverse mortgage loan, as it's a big decision that can have long-term consequences.
The amount you can borrow from a reverse mortgage depends on your age, the interest rate, and the value of your home. This means that older homeowners with more valuable homes may be eligible for larger loans.
It's essential to learn how much a reverse mortgage may cost you, including any fees and interest that will be added to your loan balance. This will help you make an informed decision about whether a reverse mortgage is right for you.
Here are some common issues to be aware of:
- Not considering all your options before taking out a reverse mortgage loan
- The amount you can borrow is determined by your age, the interest rate, and the value of your home
- Not learning how much a reverse mortgage may cost you
Live in Your Home Primary Residence

To live in your home as your primary residence with a reverse mortgage, you must spend the majority of the year there. This means being away for only short periods of time.
If you're away for more than two months but less than six months, you'll need to notify your lender or servicer to let them know you're still occupying the home as your principal residence. This is a good idea to avoid any potential issues with your loan.
If you're away for more than six months for non-medical reasons and there's no co-borrower living in the home, your home is no longer considered your primary residence, and your loan must be paid back. This can be a serious situation, so it's essential to plan ahead.
Here are some specific scenarios to keep in mind:
- If you're away for more than two months but less than six months, notify your lender or servicer.
- If you're away for more than six months for non-medical reasons, your loan must be paid back.
- If you're in a healthcare facility for more than 12 consecutive months, your loan must be paid back.
- If a co-borrower is living in the home, they may be able to continue receiving loan payments as long as they meet the loan requirements.
This is why it's crucial to understand the terms of your reverse mortgage and plan for any extended absences from your home.
Common Issues

As you consider taking out a reverse mortgage loan, it's essential to think carefully about your options. This type of loan can have significant implications for your financial future.
The amount you can borrow with a reverse mortgage loan is determined by your age, the interest rate, and the value of your home. This can be a complex calculation, so it's crucial to understand how these factors interact.
You should also learn how much a reverse mortgage may cost you. These costs can include origination fees, closing costs, and interest charges. Be sure to factor these expenses into your decision-making process.
Exploring common issues before taking out a reverse mortgage loan can save you from potential pitfalls. Consider all your options carefully before making a decision.
Here are some common issues to be aware of:
- Consider all your options before taking out a reverse mortgage loan
- The amount you can borrow depends on your age, the interest rate, and the value of your home
- Learn how much a reverse mortgage may cost you
CFPB Actions and Orders
The CFPB has taken significant actions to regulate reverse mortgages. The CFPB has issued various orders and consent orders to lenders and servicers.

One notable order was issued to a major lender in 2015. The order required the lender to pay $25 million in restitution to affected borrowers.
The CFPB has also taken steps to ensure compliance with regulations. In 2017, the CFPB issued a consent order to a servicer, requiring them to implement new procedures for evaluating loan applications.
The CFPB has also imposed penalties on lenders who have failed to comply with regulations. In 2018, the CFPB fined a lender $1 million for violating consumer protection laws.
The CFPB continues to monitor and enforce compliance with regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the biggest problem with reverse mortgage?
The biggest problem with reverse mortgages is that they can quickly turn your home equity into debt, as interest is added to your balance every month, increasing your debt and reducing your equity. This can lead to a significant financial burden and potentially even foreclosure.
What is the 95% rule on a reverse mortgage?
To qualify for a reverse mortgage payoff, heirs must sell the home for at least 95% of its appraised value, with the remaining balance covered by mortgage insurance. This ensures that heirs are not left with a significant debt after the borrower passes away.
What is the 5 and 5 rule for reverse mortgage?
The 5-5 rule for reverse mortgages requires that the new loan's principal be at least five times the closing costs and the loan proceeds exceed 5% of the refinanced amount. This ensures borrowers receive sufficient funds to offset refinancing costs.
What is the 6 month rule for reverse mortgage?
To qualify for a reverse mortgage, you must live in your primary residence for most of the year, with some exceptions for vacations or medical reasons. If you're away for more than 6 months, your lender may terminate your loan.
Sources
- https://www.consumerfinance.gov/rules-policy/regulations/1026/Interp-33
- https://www.consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/reverse-mortgages/
- https://www.consumerfinance.gov/rules-policy/regulations/1026/33
- https://www.consumerfinance.gov/ask-cfpb/what-are-my-responsibilities-as-a-reverse-mortgage-loan-borrower-en-235/
- https://www.housingwire.com/articles/cfpb-order-against-reverse-mortgage-servicers-could-have-wider-implications/
Featured Images: pexels.com