We clarify the basics
Tell us whether the plan is active, roughly how long you have made payments, and whether the current mortgage is up to date.
THE PLAIN ENGLISH GUIDE
Can you refinance while Chapter 13 is still active?
Possibly. HUD says an active Chapter 13 bankruptcy does not automatically disqualify a borrower from an FHA-insured mortgage when the required payout period, payment performance, and written court permission are met. Those are starting conditions. A loan officer still needs to review the property, income, existing mortgage, program rules, and lender requirements.
Why the date matters
The 12 months refer to the bankruptcy payout period at FHA case number assignment. It is not a promise that an application submitted on the one-year anniversary will be approved.
What happens after you ask for a review
Your attorney handles court permission
Your bankruptcy attorney can explain and seek the appropriate written permission. We cannot file a motion or advise you on the court process.
A loan officer reviews the full picture
If the timing fits, we explain which records are needed and use a secure process for documents. The review may still result in a recommendation to wait.
Have these ready later
- Confirmed repayment plan and trustee payment history
- Recent mortgage statements
- Income and asset records requested by the loan officer
- Contact information for your bankruptcy attorney
Please do not put your case number, Social Security number, or documents in this form or an ordinary email.
KEEP PERSPECTIVE
The FHA rule is a starting line, not a guarantee.
Refinancing is new debt. A court order, FHA eligibility, lender requirements, and the ability to manage the new payment all need individual review. Keep making your required payments and talk with your attorney.
COMMON QUESTIONS
What homeowners ask first
Do I have to wait until my Chapter 13 is discharged?
FHA may consider an active plan when its requirements are met. Other loan programs and lenders may have different rules. A review can identify which path is realistic.
Does 12 months mean I qualify?
No. HUD's 12-month payout period is one condition. Payment performance, court permission, the mortgage and property, income, and lender requirements still matter.
Who gets court permission?
Speak with your bankruptcy attorney. They handle the court process and can tell you whether a motion is appropriate. We do not provide legal advice.
Will this form pull my credit?
No. The request form only asks for contact and broad screening information. A loan officer will discuss any later application or credit authorization with you separately.