How quickly can underwriting be done?

Asked by: Ms. Rose Kunze Jr.  |  Last update: June 11, 2025
Score: 4.4/5 (15 votes)

If you're wondering “how long does underwriting take?”, mortgage underwriting can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on several factors such as the documentation completion time, the type of loan, the mortgage lender's process, the complexity of the application, and the appraisal timeline.

How fast can a loan go through underwriting?

Though the length of the process can vary depending on your particular situation, it can last for as little as two to three days. The process could last longer, though, because it may take multiple days or several weeks for a lender to review your financial records and documents and render a decision.

Can underwriting be done in a day?

Each situation is different, but underwriting can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Missing signatures or documents, and issues with the appraisal or title insurance are some of the things that can hold up the process.

Can you speed up underwriting?

Traditional underwriting processes are quite complex and time-consuming. However, an accelerated underwriting process forgoes the need for medical exams and can be approved in just a few days or weeks.

Can a loan fall through during underwriting?

Key takeaways about mortgage denials in underwriting

Your loan can be denied if you have incomplete or missing information on your loan application or don't meet minimum mortgage requirements. Denials are less common on mortgage loan applications.

How long does it take for the underwriter to make a decision?

41 related questions found

What is the average time for underwriting?

The mortgage underwriting process can take up to 60 days. The standard turnaround time to take a mortgage purchase loan from contract to funding usually takes 30 to 45 days, but most lenders will work to have the mortgage underwritten within 30 days to meet the agreed upon closing date set in the purchase contract.

What is the 3 7 3 rule in mortgage?

Timing Requirements – The “3/7/3 Rule”

The initial Truth in Lending Statement must be delivered to the consumer within 3 business days of the receipt of the loan application by the lender. The TILA statement is presumed to be delivered to the consumer 3 business days after it is mailed.

What not to do during underwriting?

5 Mistakes to Avoid During the Underwriting Process
  • Not responding to emails from the lender. ...
  • Buying an improperly valued home. ...
  • Exceeding loan limitations. ...
  • Lying to your lender. ...
  • Frivolous purchases while your home is pending.

What's the fastest you can close on a house?

However, some mortgage lenders promise speedy closing timelines, as fast as seven to 10 days in some cases. The fastest closing timelines are typically when the buyer pays cash and can skip the appraisal process. Your best bet? Budget for a 45-day closing process, from accepted offer to closing day.

How likely is it to get denied during underwriting?

Federal Housing Administration loans: 14.4% denial rate. Jumbo loans: 17.8% denial rate. Conventional conforming loans: 7.6% denial rate. Refinance loans: 24.7% denial rate.

What is the clear to close 3 day rule?

The three-day period is measured by days, not hours. Thus, disclosures must be delivered three days before closing, and not 72 hours prior to closing. Note: If a federal holiday falls in the three-day period, add a day for disclosure delivery.

Can I spend money during underwriting?

A mortgage is a major financial commitment. So, the underwriting process will include a thorough examination of your financial situation to make sure you can afford the loan. If you make a big purchase during the process, that could derail your mortgage application.

Do underwriters look at spending habits?

Spending habits

And they will look to see if you are regularly spending less than you earn consistent with the savings you are claiming. No matter how frugal you might be most lenders have adopted a floor on the living expenses they will accept.

How long do underwriters take to make a decision?

Generally speaking though, mortgage underwriting should take no longer than 3-4 working days and almost all applications are complete within a week - though this can easily be extended if more information is requested.

Do underwriters work on weekends?

Underwriters normally work regular business hours. They may occasionally need to work nights or weekends when they need to meet deadlines. An underwriter's salary may depend on their experience and certifications. The size, type and location of the business in which they work could also affect their salary.

Can a loan fall through after underwriting?

Yes, a loan can still fall through after you're cleared to close. Clear to close means your lender has established you've met all the requirements to close on the loan. However, a number of the obstacles discussed above could still cause a loan to fall through before closing day, even if you're clear to close.

Do underwriters have access to your bank account?

The underwriter will look at your bank accounts to make sure you have the funds for a sufficient down payment. They'll also ask for an explanation if the funds were recently deposited into your account to verify that you didn't receive a loan that could impact your DTI.

How worried should I be about underwriting?

There's no reason for a borrower to worry or stress during the underwriting process if they get prequalified. They should keep in contact with their lender and try not to make any major changes that could have a negative impact on this critical process. That includes taking out new debt or making a big purchase.

What is the 2 2 2 rule for mortgage?

A good way to remember the documentation you'll need is to remember the 2-2-2 rule: 2 years of W-2s. 2 years of tax returns (federal and state) Your two most recent pay stubs.

What is the 7 day closing rule?

The TRID rule provides that the borrower can waive the seven-business-day waiting period after receiving the LE and the three-day waiting period after receiving the CD if the borrower has a “bona fide personal financial emergency,” which requires closing the transaction before the end of these waiting periods.

What is the 120 rule for mortgage?

A mortgage servicer may not make a first notice or filing for foreclosure until the borrower is more than 120 days delinquent. The 120-day period under the rules is designed to give borrowers time to learn about workout options and file an application for mortgage assistance.

How fast can an underwriter approve a loan?

Underwriting—the process by which mortgage lenders verify your assets, check your credit scores, and review your tax returns before they can approve a home loan—can take as little as two to three days. Typically, though, it takes over a week for a loan officer or lender to complete the process.

How far back does underwriter look?

Underwriters and loan officers typically check the previous two months' bank activity in your bank statements. For self-employed mortgage applicants, however, they may go back up to 12-24 months.

How long is the underwriting cycle?

In deciding whether to approve your mortgage, underwriters consider your credit history and score, your financial profile and a home appraisal. There are many steps involved in the underwriting process, which can take a few days or weeks to complete.