An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number is issued by the IRS to people who must file U.S. taxes but aren't eligible for a Social Security number. It's used by many non-citizens, including DACA recipients and undocumented workers.

Can DACA recipients get an ITIN loan?

Yes. Most ITIN loan programs accept DACA recipients. Some lenders also have specific DACA programs that allow lower down payments.

Do ITIN loans require a credit score?

Some programs do (typically 620+), but many ITIN lenders accept alternative credit. This means demonstrating 12 months of on-time payments on rent, utilities, insurance, and other recurring obligations.

Are ITIN loan rates much higher than conventional?

Typically 1%–3% higher than conventional rates. The exact spread depends on credit profile, down payment size, and the specific lender's pricing.

ITIN Loans

ITIN loans let borrowers who file U.S. taxes with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number — instead of a Social Security number — buy a home. They're a path to homeownership for non-citizen workers and entrepreneurs.

At a glance

Minimum down payment	10%–20%
Minimum credit score	Some programs allow no traditional credit; with credit, 620+
Maximum loan amount	Typically up to $1.5M depending on lender
Mortgage insurance	None on most programs

Best for

Non-U.S. citizens who file taxes with an ITIN
DACA recipients and undocumented workers with ITINs
Foreign nationals who live and work in the U.S.
Borrowers who have been turned down due to lack of SSN
Self-employed ITIN holders with consistent income history

Eligibility requirements

Valid ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number)
Two years of U.S. tax return filings using the ITIN
Two years of work history in the same field
10%–20% down payment from documented sources
Two months of bank statements
Some lenders accept alternative credit (rent, utilities, insurance) if no traditional credit

Pros

No Social Security number required
Accepts alternative credit history
Available for primary residences and investment properties
Down payment can come from documented gift funds
Path to homeownership unavailable through conventional channels

Cons

Higher interest rates than conventional loans
Larger down payment typically required
Fewer lenders offer this program — limited shopping
Documentation can be more involved than conventional loans

Documents you'll need

Valid ITIN documentation
Two years of U.S. tax returns filed under the ITIN
Two most recent pay stubs (or self-employment documentation)
Two months of bank statements
Government-issued photo ID (driver's license, passport, or consular ID)
12 months of alternative credit references if no traditional credit (rent, utilities, phone, insurance)

Homeownership without an SSN

For years, the lack of a Social Security number was a hard wall blocking many U.S. taxpayers from owning a home. ITIN loans changed that. If you’ve been filing U.S. taxes, working in the country, and building a life here, this program exists specifically to let you buy.

The biggest hurdle is finding lenders who actually offer ITIN loans — most banks don’t. Working with a broker who has direct access to the few wholesale lenders who specialize in this product is almost always the fastest path.

Frequently asked questions

What is an ITIN?: An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number is issued by the IRS to people who must file U.S. taxes but aren't eligible for a Social Security number. It's used by many non-citizens, including DACA recipients and undocumented workers.
Can DACA recipients get an ITIN loan?: Yes. Most ITIN loan programs accept DACA recipients. Some lenders also have specific DACA programs that allow lower down payments.
Do ITIN loans require a credit score?: Some programs do (typically 620+), but many ITIN lenders accept alternative credit. This means demonstrating 12 months of on-time payments on rent, utilities, insurance, and other recurring obligations.
Are ITIN loan rates much higher than conventional?: Typically 1%–3% higher than conventional rates. The exact spread depends on credit profile, down payment size, and the specific lender's pricing.

Related loan programs

Bank Statement Loans — Bank statement loans qualify self-employed borrowers using 12 or 24 months of business or personal bank statements instead of tax returns — perfect for owners whose tax returns understate true cash flow.
Non-QM Loans — Non-Qualified Mortgage (Non-QM) loans are designed for borrowers whose income, credit, or property doesn't fit the strict Qualified Mortgage rules — including investors, self-employed, foreign nationals, and recent credit-event borrowers.
FHA Loans — FHA loans are insured by the Federal Housing Administration and let you buy with as little as 3.5% down and a 580 credit score, making them a top choice for first-time buyers and credit rebuilders.