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FHA Cash-Out Mortgage Refinance Guide

What are the hows and whys of an FHA cash-out refinance?

Are you considering tapping into your home’s equity to meet some financial goals? Our FHA Cash-Out Mortgage Refinance Guide is here to make sure you have all the relevant information at your fingertips.

This guide will help you understand the requirements, benefits, and risks of the process. We’ll help you learn if this option is right for you and how you can make the most of it.

Do you have an FHA mortgage and know that a cash-out refinance is the right move for you? Continue reading to learn more about the process or apply today to get the process started.

What is an FHA Cash-Out Refinance?

An FHA Cash-Out Refinance is a mortgage option provided by the Federal Housing Administration. It allows homeowners to convert their home equity into cash by replacing the existing mortgage. It’s a popular choice for people seeking additional funds for various purposes.

A cash-out refinance replaces your current mortgage, but it’s not the same as a home equity loan. You essentially borrow more than your home’s owed amount, and we give you the difference in cash. It’s an excellent option for homeowners looking to pay off debt, improve their home, or have other expenses that require additional capital.

How does an FHA Cash-Out Mortgage Refinance Work?

This refinance strategy is all about swapping your current mortgage with a new one, and taking cash out of your home’s equity.

Here’s how it works: You borrow more than what’s left to pay on your current mortgage. Then, the extra amount on top gets handed to you in cold, hard cash. Hence, the “cash-out” name.

Just remember, though, that you have to meet certain conditions to qualify for this type of refinance. The FHA – or Federal Housing Administration – is particular about credit scores and income levels. Also, the house has to be where you live most of the time.

How much money can I get with an FHA Cash-Out Refinance?

You may be able to receive up to 80% of your property’s appraised value minus any outstanding mortgage balance. However, your specific amount depends on additional factors like your credit score, income, and property value.

Remember, this loan is more flexible for people with low credit scores or a lot of equity in their home. Discover the details of your FHA cash-out options and understand how much money you could potentially get.

What are the qualifications for an FHA Cash-Out Mortgage Refinance?

You must meet certain qualifications for an FHA Cash-Out Mortgage Refinance. To get a more favorable interest rate, you generally need a credit score of 580 or higher. Additionally, you must have at least 20% equity in your home.

Furthermore, your debt-to-income ratio should not exceed 43%. Prior mortgage payment history and the ability to provide proof of income and assets are also key criteria. Finally, you must live in the home you’re refinancing. It’s important to consult with an experienced mortgage advisor for a thorough understanding.

Credit Score

The lowest credit score required for an FHA cash-out refinance typically starts at 580. Some lenders may demand higher scores, though. Remember, a good credit score increases chances of approval.

However, your credit score isn’t the only factor. Your debt-to-income ratio also matters. Ensure you weigh all requirements before applying.

Debt-to-Income Ratio

For an FHA cash-out refinance, it’s advised to maintain a debt-to-income (DTI) ratio below 45%. This ensures your highest likelihood of approval.

Lenders see it as a sign of your ability to comfortably repay the mortgage. However, some lenders may accept higher ratios. Yet remember, a lower DTI always improves your chances. Make it your aim for a successful refinance.

Loan-to-Value Ratio

Evaluating your FHA cash-out refinance options? It’s essential to know that your loan-to-value (LTV) ratio plays a critical role.

Usually, the FHA allows a maximum LTV of 80% for cash-out refinances. That means, ideally, you should have at least 20% equity in your property.

Time in Residence

You must live in your home for a minimum of 12 months to qualify for an FHA cash-out refinance. The FHA requires this period to ensure borrowers have a stable residential history.

This doesn’t mean you can’t refinance sooner, but a cash-out option, which allows you to tap into home equity, requires a longer stay. So, it’s best to plan accordingly.

Payment History

To qualify for an FHA cash-out refinance, lenders generally seek borrowers who possess a good payment history. This implies no late payments in the past 12 months.

Such consistency bolsters your creditworthiness and increases approval chances. Ensure your financial habits mirror reliability and timely payments, as it significantly impacts the FHA loan approval process.

How Can I apply for an FHA Cash-Out Mortgage Refinance?

Applying for an FHA Cash-Out Mortgage Refinance isn’t as complex as you might think. First, ensure you meet all eligibility criteria set by the Federal Housing Administration. This includes owning your home for at least one year and using it as your primary residence.

Then, calculate your home’s equity – it must be a minimum of 20% for this refinance option. Next, get your financial documents in order. These include pay stubs, tax returns, and mortgage statements.

Finally, submit your application through Owning to get the process moving. Our team will guide you through the underwriting process to secure your refinance. The cash-out refinance solution you need is closer than you think with the team at Owning! ed is closer than you think with the team at Owning!


Applicant subject to credit and underwriting approval. Not all applicants will be approved for financing. Receipt of application does not represent an approval for financing or interest rate guarantee. Restrictions may apply, contact Owning for current rates and for more information.

All information provided in this publication is for informational and educational purposes only, and in no way is any of the content contained herein to be construed as financial, investment, or legal advice or instruction. Owning, Inc. does not guarantee the quality, accuracy, completeness or timelines of the information in this publication. While efforts are made to verify the information provided, the information should not be assumed to be error free. Some information in the publication may have been provided by third parties and has not necessarily been verified by Owning, Inc. Owning, Inc. its affiliates and subsidiaries do not assume any liability for the information contained herein, be it direct, indirect, consequential, special, or exemplary, or other damages whatsoever and howsoever caused, arising out of or in connection with the use of this publication or in reliance on the information, including any personal or pecuniary loss, whether the action is in contract, tort (including negligence) or other tortious action. Owning does not provide tax advice. Please contact your tax adviser for any tax related questions.

Applicant subject to credit and underwriting approval. Restrictions apply.


Owning has no affiliation with the Federal Housing Administration (FHA).

Using funds from a Cash-out Refinance to consolidate debt may result in the debt taking longer to pay off as it will be combined with borrower’s mortgage principle amount and will be paid off over the full loan term. Contact Owning for more information.