Credit & Qualifying
What are my fair-lending rights when applying for a mortgage?
Updated Jul 1, 2026
The short answer
Under federal law, including the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, lenders may not discriminate against you based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, marital status, age, or because you receive public assistance. You have the right to know why an application was denied. If you believe you were treated unfairly, you can file a complaint with the CFPB.
Key points
- Discrimination on protected characteristics is illegal.
- You can request the specific reasons for a denial.
- These protections apply throughout the lending process.
- You can file a complaint with the CFPB.
If something feels wrong
Keep records of your application and communications. If you suspect discrimination, you have avenues to challenge it, including filing a complaint with federal regulators.
Sources
Every claim above traces to a public government source.
- ViewT1Fair lending: your rights under ECOA
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau · Government / primary · 2024