Mortgage Discrimination Is Against the Law

---

If you’re thinking about applying for a mortgage to buy, refinance or make improvements to your home, it’s important to know that mortgage discrimination is against the law.

Two federal laws offer protection against discrimination. The Equal Credit Opportunity Act forbids credit discrimination on the basis of age, race, color, religion, national origin, sex, or marital status. Everyone who participates in the decision to grant credit – or in setting the terms of that credit – must comply. This includes real estate brokers who arrange the financing.

The Fair Housing Act protects people from discrimination when they are renting or buying a home, getting a mortgage, seeking housing assistance, or engaging in other housing-related activities. If you suspect a lender has discriminated against you, you can complain to the creditor or check with your state Attorney General’s office to see if the creditor violated state equal credit opportunity laws.