InfoBytes Blog
Freddie says cryptocurrency can’t be used for mortgage qualification
On December 1, Freddie Mac released Bulletin 2021-36 to Freddie Mac sellers to provide guidance on selling updates. The bulletin provides guidance on, among other things: (i) 2022 conforming loan limits; (ii) extension of the guarantee fee obligation; (iii) affordable lending; (iv) credit underwriting; and (v) document custody. In order to address uncertainty regarding the treatment of cryptocurrency in mortgage underwriting, the bulletin specifically addresses requirements related to cryptocurrency’s use in the mortgage qualification process. These requirements include, among other things, that income paid to the borrower in cryptocurrency cannot be utilized to qualify for a mortgage and that “[c]ryptocurrency may not be included in the calculation of assets as a basis for repayment of [the] obligation.” Unless otherwise noted, the changes issues in the bulletin are effective immediately.