What is arbitration and how does it affect my mortgage loan?

Arbitration is a way to address disputes outside the court system. If you have an issue with your mortgage loan, some protections that are generally available to you in court, like the right to appeal, may not be available in arbitration.

A person called an arbitrator listens to each side and decides how to resolve the dispute.

In the past, mortgage lenders would sometimes include “mandatory arbitration clauses” in mortgage agreements. These clauses made you agree to resolve certain types of disputes in arbitration rather than in court. Mortgage lenders are no longer allowed to include “mandatory arbitration clauses” in mortgage agreements. You can’t be required to accept mandatory arbitration. You can agree to resolve an issue through arbitration if you think that’s a better way of resolving the dispute.

If you have a problem with your mortgage, you can submit a complaint with the CFPB online or by calling (855) 411-CFPB (2372).

Read full answer

Don't see what you're looking for?

Browse related questions

About us

We're the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), a U.S. government agency that makes sure banks, lenders, and other financial companies treat you fairly.

Legal disclaimer

The content on this page provides general consumer information. It is not legal advice or regulatory guidance. The CFPB updates this information periodically. This information may include links or references to third-party resources or content. We do not endorse the third-party or guarantee the accuracy of this third-party information. There may be other resources that also serve your needs.