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ITIN mortgages — buying a home in the US without SSN

How to get a US mortgage using ITIN. Lenders that accept ITIN (Wells Fargo, NACA, ITIN Bank), typical requirements, rates, and step-by-step process.

Before you start

ITIN mortgages — buying a home in the US without SSN

Yes, you can buy a US home with ITIN — even without SSN. More and more lenders offer “ITIN mortgages” designed specifically for immigrants who have tax and credit history but no Social Security Number.

What makes an ITIN mortgage different?

An “ITIN mortgage” is basically a conventional mortgage with two adaptations:

  1. Uses ITIN instead of SSN to identify the borrower
  2. Non-QM programs (Non-Qualified Mortgage) — Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac don’t buy these loans, so lenders hold them in portfolio

Result: higher interest rates (typically 1-2% more than conventional), higher down payments (typically 20-30% vs 3-5% for FHA), but accessible without SSN.

Lenders that accept ITIN

1. Wells Fargo (traditional bank)

  • “ITIN Mortgage” program available in many states (especially CA, TX, FL, NY, AZ, IL)
  • Requires: 2+ years ITIN tax history, 2+ years employment, 20-25% down
  • Rates: ~1-1.5% higher than conventional
  • Wells Fargo Mortgage

2. NACA (Neighborhood Assistance Corporation of America)

  • No down payment, no closing costs, at-market rate (no ITIN premium)
  • National nonprofit program
  • Requires attending “Homebuyer Workshop” (group orientation)
  • Long process (4-6 months) but MUCH better terms
  • Accepts ITIN holders
  • NACA.com

3. ITIN Bank / Other Non-QM lenders

  • Specialized lenders like Athas Capital, Citadel, RPM Mortgage, A&D Mortgage
  • Terms vary but generally: 20-30% down, rates 1-2% premium
  • Best found via broker who knows the ITIN market

4. Specific Credit Unions

  • Some credit unions serve immigrant communities (Self-Help Credit Union, Latino Credit Union)
  • Sometimes have unique ITIN programs

Typical requirements (varies by lender)

  • ☐ Active ITIN (not expired)
  • ☐ 2+ years tax history with ITIN (1040 returns with ITIN)
  • ☐ Stable employment 2+ years (W-2 or Schedule C if self-employed)
  • ☐ Credit score minimum 660-700
  • ☐ Down payment 20-30% of home price
  • ☐ Cash reserves equivalent to 6+ months of monthly payments
  • ☐ DTI (Debt-to-Income) ratio < 43% generally
  • ☐ ID proof (passport, matrícula consular)
  • ☐ Residency proof (lease, utility bills)

Step-by-step process

Month 1-3: Preparation

  1. Build credit to 700+ (see ITIN credit-building guide)
  2. Save down payment 20-30% + closing costs (~3-5%) + reserves
  3. Have 2 years tax returns with ITIN
  4. Reduce debts to improve DTI ratio

Month 4: Pre-approval

  • Apply with 2-3 lenders simultaneously
  • Compare rates + terms
  • Get pre-approval letter (valid 60-90 days)

Month 5: House hunting

  • Work with realtor familiar with ITIN purchases
  • Make offers
  • Once accepted, sign purchase agreement

Month 5-6: Underwriting + closing

  • Lender does property inspection
  • Appraisal (professional valuation)
  • Underwriting (final lender review)
  • Closing — sign papers, pay down payment + closing costs
  • Keys in hand

Typical rates (2024-2025 ranges)

For comparison:

  • Conventional 30-year: 6.5-7%
  • FHA 30-year: 6-6.75%
  • ITIN Non-QM 30-year: 7.5-9% (typically)
  • NACA: at-market rate (same as conventional, no premium)

NACA is by far the best path if you have patience for the long process.

Better in specific states

ITIN mortgages are more accessible in states with large immigrant populations: California, Texas, Florida, New York, Illinois (Chicago), Nevada, Arizona.

Last verified: 2026-05-25.

General procedural information for educational purposes. Not legal, tax, or immigration advice. Laws and fees change — verify with the issuing agency before taking action. For case-specific guidance, consult a licensed immigration attorney or other appropriate professional.

Frequently asked questions

Can I really buy a house with an ITIN and no Social Security number?
Yes. A growing number of lenders offer ‘ITIN mortgages’ for borrowers who file taxes and have credit history but no SSN. These are typically portfolio or Non-QM loans (the lender keeps them rather than selling to Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac), so terms differ from a standard conventional loan, but home ownership is achievable.
How much down payment do I need for an ITIN mortgage?
Most ITIN mortgages require a larger down payment than conventional loans — typically 20–30% of the price — plus closing costs and cash reserves. One major exception is NACA, a national nonprofit program that offers no-down-payment, at-market-rate loans (with a longer process and a required homebuyer workshop).
Are interest rates higher on an ITIN mortgage?
Usually yes — often about 1–2% higher than a comparable conventional loan, because these are portfolio/Non-QM products. NACA is the notable exception, offering at-market rates with no ITIN premium. Shop multiple lenders and brokers who know the ITIN market.
What do I need to qualify?
Lenders generally look for an active (non-expired) ITIN, 2+ years of tax returns filed with the ITIN, 2+ years of stable employment, a credit score around 660–700+, a 20–30% down payment, cash reserves of about 6 months of payments, and a debt-to-income ratio under ~43%.
Which lenders offer ITIN mortgages?
Options include Wells Fargo’s ITIN program (in many states), the NACA nonprofit program, specialized Non-QM lenders (often reached through a broker), and some community credit unions that serve immigrant communities. Availability varies by state — compare several.

ITIN taxes

General information, not legal advice. MigrantUSA is an independent publisher and is not a law firm; using this site does not create an attorney-client relationship, and this content is not a substitute for advice from a licensed attorney about your specific situation. US federal, state, and local government procedures, fees, and forms change. Always verify current details directly with the relevant agency before acting. For immigration, tax, or other legal matters specific to your situation, consult a licensed attorney or BIA-accredited representative.