ITIN Loans
Homeownership is possible without a Social Security Number. ITIN loans open the door for qualifying borrowers using their Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.
Program Overview
An ITIN loan is a mortgage program designed for borrowers who have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security Number. These programs enable non-citizens, including undocumented residents, DACA recipients, and others who file taxes using an ITIN to purchase a home. While not available through traditional government-backed programs (FHA, VA, USDA), ITIN loans are offered through private and non-QM lenders with competitive terms.
Who Is This Loan For?
- ✓ Individuals who file U.S. taxes with an ITIN
- ✓ Non-citizen residents who do not have a Social Security Number
- ✓ DACA recipients
- ✓ Foreign nationals working and paying taxes in the U.S.
- ✓ Borrowers with a strong payment history but no traditional credit score
Key Benefits
No SSN Required
Qualify using your ITIN and U.S. tax filing history instead of a Social Security Number.
Alternative Credit Accepted
Utility bills, rent payment history, phone bills, and other non-traditional trade lines accepted in lieu of a traditional credit report.
Reasonable Down Payments
Programs available starting at 15–20% down, depending on the lender and borrower profile.
Path to Homeownership
Allows borrowers who have been excluded from traditional programs to build equity through homeownership.
Qualification at a Glance
General Requirements
- Valid ITIN number with U.S. tax filing history (typically 2 years)
- Down payment of 15–20% or more
- Alternative credit history or traditional credit with minimum score
- Proof of income (tax returns, bank statements, or pay stubs)
- Reserves of 3–6 months PITIA
- Property appraisal required
Advantages
- ✓ No Social Security Number required
- ✓ Alternative credit history accepted
- ✓ Available for primary residence purchase
- ✓ Builds equity and credit over time
- ✓ Competitive terms within non-QM space
- ✓ Multiple income documentation options
Tradeoffs to Consider
- ↔ Higher down payment than FHA (15–20% vs 3.5%)
- ↔ Interest rates higher than conventional or government loans
- ↔ Not available through Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, FHA, VA, or USDA
- ↔ Fewer lenders offer ITIN programs
- ↔ May require reserves
- ↔ Limited to certain property types and occupancy
Common Scenarios
Family Purchasing First Home
A family filing taxes with an ITIN for 3 years wants to buy their first home. Using 2 years of tax returns and alternative credit (rent and utility history), they qualify for a $300K purchase with 20% down.
Self-Employed ITIN Borrower
A small business owner with an ITIN uses bank statements to verify income. Combined with a strong rental payment history and 20% down, they secure homeownership.
Documents Typically Needed
- Valid ITIN documentation
- Last 2 years of U.S. tax returns (filed with ITIN)
- Proof of alternative credit (12 months of rent, utilities, insurance payments)
- Two months of bank statements
- Proof of down payment funds
- Government-issued ID (passport or consular ID)
- Current residence history
Frequently Asked Questions
An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a tax processing number issued by the IRS for individuals who need to file U.S. tax returns but are not eligible for a Social Security Number. It is not an immigration document and does not authorize work in the U.S.
Broker Disclosure: Scout Financial Group Inc DBA Airus Lending is a licensed mortgage broker (NMLS #2187418) and does not make loans or credit decisions. Airus Lending works with multiple wholesale lenders to help borrowers compare available loan options. Final approval depends on the lender, automated underwriting findings, documentation, state requirements, and overall borrower profile. Not all applicants will qualify.