If you paid off an FHA loan early, you might be owed money without even knowing it. Thousands of homeowners have unclaimed FHA mortgage insurance refunds, but many are unaware of how to check or claim them.
This guide explains who qualifies, how to check if you’re owed money, and the exact steps to claim your refund hassle-free.
Key Details: FHA Insurance Refunds
Aspect | Details |
---|---|
What is FHA Insurance? | A required insurance for FHA-backed loans that protects lenders against defaults. |
Refund Eligibility | Homeowners who paid an Upfront Mortgage Insurance Premium (UFMIP) and met specific criteria. |
Total Unclaimed Refunds | $384.7 million in unclaimed refunds as of 2020. |
How to Check | Use HUD’s Refund Search Tool or call 1-800-697-6967. |
Processing Time | Typically 60 days after submitting the application. |
Common Pitfalls | Scam alerts: Avoid third-party “tracer” companies that charge fees. |
What Is an FHA Mortgage Insurance Refund?
When you take out an FHA-backed mortgage, you must pay mortgage insurance premiums (MIP). These protect the lender in case of default. FHA mortgage insurance includes:
- Upfront Mortgage Insurance Premium (UFMIP) – Paid at closing (usually 1.75% of your loan amount).
- Annual Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP) – Added to monthly mortgage payments.
If you paid off or refinanced your FHA loan early, you might qualify for a partial refund of the UFMIP.
Who Is Eligible for an FHA Insurance Refund?
You may be eligible for a refund if:
- Your FHA loan was endorsed after September 1, 1983.
- You paid UFMIP when closing your loan.
- You refinanced into a non-FHA loan or paid off your FHA loan early.
- Your loan was not assumed by another person.
- You did not default on your loan.
You are NOT eligible if:
- Your loan was foreclosed or defaulted.
- The FHA paid a claim to your lender.
- Your loan was assumed by another buyer.
Example: How One Homeowner Claimed Their Refund
Jane bought her home in 2015 with an FHA loan of $250,000 and paid $4,375 in UFMIP. In 2021, she refinanced into a conventional loan. After checking HUD’s refund search, she discovered she was owed $1,200. She submitted her claim and received her check within 45 days.
How to Check If You’re Owed an FHA Refund
Step 1: Use HUD’s FHA Refund Search Tool
- Go to HUD’s refund lookup tool: FHA Refund Search.
- Enter your last name or FHA case number.
- Add your city and state for better accuracy.
- Review the results: If your name appears, take note of your FHA case number and refund amount.
Step 2: Contact HUD
- Call HUD’s Refund Support Center at 1-800-697-6967.
- Or email [email protected].
If your name doesn’t show up but you believe you’re owed a refund, call HUD—they can manually verify your case.
How to Claim Your FHA Insurance Refund
Step 1: Complete the FHA Refund Application
If HUD confirms you qualify, they will send you Form HUD-27050-B (Application for Premium Refund).
What You Need to Submit:
- Proof of Identity – Driver’s license, passport, or government-issued ID.
- Social Security Number Verification – Social Security card, W-2, or tax document.
- Proof of Ownership – Deed, mortgage documents, or final payment statement.
Step 2: Submit Your Application
- Mail the completed form and required documents to the HUD address specified on your paperwork.
- If your refund amount exceeds $2,000, it must be notarized.
Step 3: Wait for Processing
- Processing Time: Up to 60 days.
- Once approved, you will receive your refund check in the mail within 10–14 days.
Beware of FHA Refund Scams
Many third-party companies offer to help you claim your refund—for a fee. However, HUD does not charge any fees for this service.
How to Spot a Scam:
- They ask for upfront payment.
- They claim to be an “official HUD partner”.
- They pressure you to sign over your refund rights.
What to Do If Contacted by a Scammer:
- Ignore their calls and emails.
- Report them to HUD’s fraud department at 1-800-347-3735.
Thousands of homeowners are owed FHA mortgage insurance refunds, but many don’t know how to claim them. If you paid off an FHA loan early, take action today by:
- Checking the HUD refund search tool.
- Calling HUD at 1-800-697-6967 for assistance.
- Submitting your refund application for free.
For official information, visit HUD’s FHA Refund Portal.
FAQ:
How do I know if I’m owed an FHA insurance refund?
Use the HUD refund lookup tool or call 1-800-697-6967 to check.
How much money can I get from an FHA refund?
Refund amounts vary depending on how much UFMIP you paid and how early you refinanced or paid off your loan.