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No matter where you come from or who you are, no one should have to worry about not being accepted for credit or a mortgage in KC based on their:

  • Race
  • Color
  • Religion
  • National origin
  • Sex
  • Marital status
  • Age
  • Disability

Thankfully, there are two major laws designed to work together to help protect you against discrimination when you go in to apply for credit or a mortgage in KC:

While these two laws are very similar in design and purpose, each deals with different issues. ECOA deals with credit discrimination, while the FFHA deals with discrimination in housing and mortgages in KC.

Equal Credit Opportunity Act
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is a consumer protection agency that protects consumers from unfair and predatory business acts. It enforces the Equal Credit Opportunity Act and helps ensure that everyone has an equal chance to obtain credit and own a home. If there has been a pattern of discrimination, the Department of Justice may file a lawsuit under the ECOA, even if a discriminatory act happened only once.

Federal Fair Housing Act
Where the ECOA protects borrowers from discrimination when applying for credit, the Federal Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental, and financing of homes, among other housing-related transactions. Companies are prohibited from:

  • Refusing to make a mortgage loan
  • Refusing to provide information regarding loans
  • Imposing different terms or conditions on a loan, such as different interest rates, points, or fees
  • Discriminating in appraising property
  • Refusing to purchase a loan
  • Setting different terms or conditions for purchasing a loan

Failure to comply with the ECOA and FFHA could result in fines and lawsuits for the offending company. Remember that not every rejected application is discrimination. If you believe you have been a victim of discrimination when applying for credit or a mortgage in KC, contact the appropriate regulatory agency.

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The above information is for educational purposes only. All information, loan programs and interest rates are subject to change without notice. All loans subject to underwriter approval. Terms and conditions apply. Always consult an accountant or tax advisor for full eligibility requirements on tax deduction.
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