FHA Cash-Out Refinance
Need cash for home improvements or consolidating debt? An FHA Cash-Out Refinance lets you leverage your home equity by replacing your current mortgage with a new one that includes the cash you need.
With an FHA Cash-Out, you can access up to 80% of your home’s appraised value, making it an excellent choice if you’re looking for a way to:
- Cover home improvements
- Pay off high-interest debt
- Manage medical or educational expenses


What Is An FHA Cash-Out Refinance?
An FHA Cash-Out Refinance enables you to refinance your existing mortgage into a new loan that is larger than your current balance, with the difference paid to you in cash. Unlike a standard refinance, this option lets you tap into your home’s equity, meaning you can borrow against the value you’ve built up in your property.
FHA Cash-Out Refinance Requirements:
To qualify for an FHA Cash-Out Refinance, you’ll need to meet several key guidelines set by the FHA. These include:
- Credit Score: The FHA typically requires a minimum credit score of 580, although some lenders may have stricter requirements.
- Loan-to-Value (LTV) Ratio: You can borrow up to 80% of your home’s appraised value. For example, if your home is worth $300,000, you could potentially refinance for up to $240,000.
- Homeownership: You must have lived in the home as your primary residence for at least 12 months before applying for a cash-out refinance.
- Income and Employment: Lenders will also evaluate your ability to repay the loan, which means you’ll need to verify your income and employment history.
FHA Cash-Out Refinance Benefits:
An FHA Cash-Out Refinance comes with several advantages, especially for homeowners who may not meet the strict criteria of conventional loans:
- Access Your Home’s Equity: You can use the cash for any purpose, whether it’s home renovations, paying off debt, or covering emergency expenses.
- Favorable Credit Requirements: FHA loans tend to be more forgiving on credit scores, making it easier to qualify even if you’ve had some financial challenges.
- Lower Interest Rates: FHA loans generally come with lower interest rates compared to conventional loans, which can help save money over time.
Pros and cons of FHA Cash-Out Refinancing:
Pros:
Access cash for large expenses.
Possible to secure a lower interest rate than other personal loans or credit cards.
The cash-out can be used for anything from debt to home upgrades.
Cons:
Closing costs: Expect to pay 2–6% of the loan amount.
Mortgage insurance: Upfront and annual premiums may apply.
How To Apply for an FHA Cash-Out Refinance:
Find an FHA-Approved Lender: Not all lenders offer FHA loans, so make sure to choose one that is FHA-approved. You can shop around for the best rates and terms.
Determine Your Home’s Equity: Get an appraisal to determine the current market value of your home. You’ll need to have at least 20% equity remaining after the refinance.
Gather Necessary Documents: Be prepared to submit paperwork such as:
- Proof of income (pay stubs, W-2s, tax returns)
- Employment verification
- Current mortgage statement
- Homeowners insurance information
Complete the Underwriting Process: Once your application is submitted, the lender will verify your information and perform underwriting to ensure you qualify. This process can take a few weeks, but it’s typically straightforward with FHA loans.
Is FHA Cash-Out Refinance Right for You?
An FHA Cash-Out Refinance might be the right choice if:
- You need access to cash for home improvements, debt consolidation, or other major expenses.
- You have built up equity in your home and want to take advantage of lower FHA interest rates.
- Your credit score isn’t high enough to qualify for a conventional cash-out refinance.
However, it’s important to carefully consider the long-term impact of refinancing, including the new mortgage term, closing costs, and ongoing mortgage insurance premiums.
Ready to Access Your Home’s Equity?
Explore how an FHA Cash-Out Refinance can help you meet your financial goals. Whether you’re looking to renovate, consolidate debt, or simply access extra funds, GoClearPacific can guide you through the process and help you make the right choice for your situation.