Gift Money: Everything You Need to Know

We get this question more often than most… “ Can my family member help me with my closing costs or down payment?” The answer is yes, but if you are getting gift money to help finance your new home there are a few things you need to remember…

The “Donor” of the gift must be a family member, fiancé or domestic partner. They must prove they have the ability to provide you with the gift by providing a copy of their bank statement, a copy of the canceled gift check and/or a signed letter from their bank saying the funds are available.

The “Gift Letter” is a form we will provide. The donor will need to complete it with basic information and a signed statement that the funds are a gift with no expectation of repayment.

The “Transfer” must be documented carefully. Make a copy of the gift check and deposit slip or of confirmation of the wire transfer. Deposit the gift in the account you’re already using for verification of funds to close. DO NOT combine this deposit with any other incidental deposits. Provide either an online update or the next account statement to show that the deposit cleared into the account.

Some programs allow for the entire down payment to be in the form of a gift. Others may require that you have at least 5% of the purchase price from your own funds. As these rules can vary or change at any time, never hesitate to consult with us for the specifics as they relate to your transaction.

While the documentation requirements may seem excessive at times, please remember that the underwriters are simply following the rules to assure that your down payment is not borrowed and that any allowable gift funds are coming from acceptable sources.

And remember, if you have any questions about the mortgage process, just ask me!

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