FHA, USDA,, and VA, require your Spouse’s Credit —Even If They’re Not on the Loan

FHA, USDA,, and VA, require your Spouse's Credit - Even If They're Not on the Loan

When applying for a home loan, many borrowers are surprised to learn that even if their spouse isn’t applying for the mortgage, their credit report still needs to be reviewed. This is especially true for FHA loans and some other government-backed or state-specific loan programs.

Let's break it down so you know what to expect - and how to plan for a smooth approval.

🏦 Why Lenders Look at a Non-Borrowing Spouse's Credit

In certain states - like California, which is a community property state - lenders are required to consider the total household debt when evaluating the borrower’s ability to repay the loan.

This means that even if your spouse isn't on the loan application, their debts and credit obligations may affect your mortgage approval. Lenders use your spouse's credit report to:

Review monthly debt obligations like auto loans, credit cards, or student loans
Calculate your combined debt-to-income (DTI) ratio
Ensure compliance with FHA, VA, and USDA loan guidelines

📌 Important Note: Their credit score isn't used for qualification - only their debts are factored into the approval.

🧾 When Is a Spouse's Credit Pulled?

Here are a few loan types and scenarios where the non-borrowing spouse's credit is typically pulled:

FHA Loans

FHA requires a credit report for a non-borrowing spouse in community property states. The spouse's debts (not their score) are considered when calculating your DTI.

VA Loans

VA loans also require the lender to review the non-borrowing spouse's credit in community property states, although it doesn’t necessarily disqualify you - it just ensures full financial transparency.

USDA Loans

Like FHA, USDA will also consider the total household debt when making approval decisions - even if only one spouse is applying.

💡 What You Can Do to Prepare

Be transparent with your loan officer about both spouses' debts and credit history
Gather documentation early - including both credit reports, if possible
Don't assume being "off the loan" means being "off the radar"
Ask questions - your lender should help you structure the loan to your advantage

🤝 We're Here to Help You Navigate It All

At First Capital Mortgage Inc., we walk you through every step of the loan process - so you know exactly what's required, why it matters, and how to move forward with confidence. Whether you're applying solo or as a couple, we'll help you build a strong loan file and avoid surprises.

🗣️ Your Referral Means the World to Us

If you know a couple (married or not!) who's thinking about buying or refinancing, we'd love the chance to guide them.

🔒 Ready to Get Started?

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Or schedule a call to answer your questions and get ready to buy a home:
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🙋‍♂️ One More Thing…

If any of your friends, family, or co-workers are looking to buy, sell, or refinance, can I count on you to introduce us via text or email? A warm introduction means everything, and I'll treat them like gold.

Make it a Successful Week,
Steve McNeal
📞 209-522-7100
📨 Steve@FirstCapitalMortgageInc.com
Start TODAY. Find your home tomorrow. 👉 Start Here
📅 Have an Initial Conversation with Steve