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Buying a home without a Social Security number?

Buying may still be possible, but the rules changed in 2025 and many programs are closed to buyers without one. Here's what's still open, what isn't, and what to gather first. When you're ready, talk to me before you apply.

Talk to Ximena before you apply

What's still possible

Some lenders make home loans to buyers who file taxes with an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead of a Social Security number. These are usually non-QM or portfolio loans, which means the lender sets its own rules instead of following FHA, Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac guidelines.

  • Some banks, credit unions and specialty lenders offer them. Not every lender does.
  • Many ask for 10% to 20% down.
  • Rates are often about 0.5 to 2 percentage points higher than a standard loan.
  • Most ask for your last 2 years of federal tax returns filed with your ITIN.
  • Terms have been changing in 2026. Compare Loan Estimates from more than one lender before you decide.

Every figure here varies by lender. Only a lender can tell you what you qualify for.

What's closed without a Social Security number

These loans and programs require a Social Security number, specific immigration documents, or military service. Each one lists its date and sources.

FHA loans

Since May 25, 2025, FHA loans are limited to U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and citizens of the Freely Associated States (Micronesia, the Marshall Islands and Palau). Every borrower also has to give the lender a valid Social Security number. It applies to loans whose FHA case number was assigned on or after that date.

Sources:HUD Mortgagee Letter 2025-09 (FHA residency requirements)HUD Handbook 4000.1 (FHA Social Security number requirement)

Conventional loans sold to Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac

Fannie Mae accepts an ITIN in place of a Social Security number only when the borrower also meets its legal residency and documentation requirements. Freddie Mac's rules also require documented status.

Sources:Fannie Mae Selling Guide B2-2 (borrower eligibility)Freddie Mac Guide 5103.2 (borrower eligibility)

USDA loans

USDA home loans require U.S. citizenship or a qualifying immigration status.

Sources:7 CFR 3555.151 (USDA borrower eligibility)

VA loans

VA loans are for eligible veterans, service members and some surviving spouses. Eligibility comes from military service.

Sources:VA home loan eligibility

Texas down payment help (TDHCA and TSAHC)

The state's homebuyer programs run through FHA, VA, USDA, Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac loans and follow those programs' rules for non-citizen buyers, so they're closed too.

Sources:TDHCA My First Texas Home program matrix (August 2026)TSAHC homebuyer program guidelines (August 2026)

El Paso HFC Mi Casa grant

The program's guidelines say: "All borrowers must have a valid SSN, ITIN's are not allowable."

Sources:El Paso HFC Mi Casa program guidelines (March 2025)

City of El Paso first-time homebuyer help

The City's homebuyer help is funded by the federal HOME program. HUD now treats HOME assistance as a federal public benefit, so since November 2025 it requires an eligible immigration status.

Sources:HUD notice on HOME and CDBG eligibility (November 26, 2025)

What to gather before you apply

Having these ready helps a lender review your application faster.

See the details
  • Your ITIN assignment letter from the IRS (CP565).
  • Make sure your ITIN is current. An ITIN not used on a federal tax return for 3 years in a row expires.
  • Your last 2 years of filed federal tax returns.
  • Recent bank statements, usually 3 months, showing your savings.
  • A valid government-issued photo ID.
  • Proof of steady income for about 2 years, such as pay records or business records.
  • Your credit report. No credit score? Some lenders accept rent, utility or phone payment history.
  • Savings for a larger down payment, often 10% to 20%, plus closing costs.

Having these documents ready doesn't guarantee approval. Requirements vary by lender.

Every situation is different. For legal questions about buying property, ask a real estate attorney about your situation.

Talk to me before you apply

I'll walk you through how buying works in El Paso, what to ask each lender, and how to plan your home search once a lender tells you what you qualify for.

  • I won't ask about your immigration status or where you're from.
  • I don't recommend a specific lender. Compare Loan Estimates from more than one.
  • If we work together, buyer representation is covered in a written agreement. Fees are negotiable and not set by law.
Prefer to call or text? 915-588-8892I usually reply within minutes.
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Where this information comes from

Ximena Martinez, REALTOR® · 915-588-8892 · ximenatxrealtor@gmail.com

Brokered by ClearView Realty, LLC · TREC #824509