Refinance Checklist

Most recent mortgage statement (current balance, rate, payment) 12-month mortgage payment history (no 30-day lates preferred) Current loan number and servicer contact Original note and deed of trust (if available) HOA statements and payment history (if applicable)

Pay stubs — last 30 days W-2 forms — last 2 years Federal tax returns — last 2 years If self-employed: 2 years business returns Award letters for Social Security, pension, disability

Bank statements — last 2–3 months Sufficient funds for closing costs (typically 2–5% of loan amount) For cash-out refi: funds will be disbursed at closing Investment / retirement accounts

Property address and legal description Refinance appraisal (ordered by lender) Current homeowners insurance policy and premium Property tax bills (last year) HOA documents and dues (if condo/PUD) Title insurance (lender's policy — new one required)

Rate-and-term refi: lower rate or change term (15→30 yr) Cash-out refi: access equity (max 80% LTV for conventional) FHA Streamline: minimal docs, no appraisal (must have FHA loan) VA IRRRL: minimal docs (must have VA loan) Break-even analysis: new payment savings vs. closing costs Seasoning requirement: typically 6–12 months on current loan Prepayment penalty check on existing loan