How do I verify if a lender is legitimate and licensed?

To verify a mortgage lender's legitimacy, check their license status on the NMLS Consumer Access website (nmlsconsumeraccess.org), which is the official national database for licensed mortgage lenders and loan originators. All legitimate mortgage lenders operating in the U.S. must be registered or licensed with state regulators. Also verify with your state's Department of Financial Institutions or Banking. Look up the company on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and search for complaints. Confirm they have a physical address, a published phone number, and clear contact information. Scam lenders often have poor web presence, overseas addresses, or no verifiable licensing.