Married? Do we both have to go on home loan? FHA?

[jmedee]

Okay here is my question -

 

I am looking to obtain a mortgage this year (BK will hit 2 years August 30th). I have established accounts - good credit after BK, credit score 670. I work full time and annual salary is 75k. My husband has a STATE tax lien (under $3500), and we are working at getting all of his taxes filed in order to clear up the lien (get a payment plan).

 

My question is do I HAVE to include him on the loan? How does the LO know we are married? Is there a checkbox on the application that asks if I am married. I really just want to buy a home and he doesn't have a high income anyway being on disability, etc. His credit score isn't that great, it might be 620? So, my thought is why can't I just apply?

[Bucket]

There is a place for it on the loan application but I don't think you have to apply jointly unless you want to count his income.

[Brian B The Loan Professor]

As stated there is a box that asks if you are married -

If you are not in a community property state it would be easier to do on your own

if in one of the 8 states that are you would have to include his debts as well which means a credit report - with a state tax lien showing an underwriter may take issue with that. Not saying they would but it may come up.

B

[jmedee]

Yeah, I'm in California - so it sounds like I am in a Community Property State. I have heard of people getting approved without paying it, so maybe we will luck out if it's not cleared up by then.

 

Hmmm, I guess we will see.

 

Thanks for the feedback.