The FHA Connection
Frequently Asked Questions

Information by State  Print version

Q: What is the FHA Connection?

A: The FHA Connection is an interactive system on the Internet that gives real-time access to FHA systems to originate loans. You must have access to the World Wide Web and an SSL complaint browser. You must also have a ten digit originator ID number to register. Click here for FHA Connection or you can access from the HUD Web page.

Q: How do I sign on to the FHA Connection and what is the cost?

A: HUD does not charge for using the FHA Connection, you are only responsible for having access to the Internet. Before you can sign-on you must register for an identification number and password. There are two types of FHA Connection Users:

Q: What do I do if I registered and didn't receive a number?

A: Application Coordinator ID numbers are issued within 24 to 48 hours and sent to your company by mail. Before you register, you should verify your mailing address on the FHA Connection. You should allow 7 to 10 days before contacting your local Homeownership Center, at which time they will issue another letter to your company. Because of security reasons, HUD is not allowed to issue ID numbers over the phone. Standard User ID numbers are retrieved through the FHA Connection  by the Application Coordinator 24 hours after the designated Standard User has registered. This is done by accessing the ID Maintenance window, and doing a query of all ID numbers assigned.

Q: What do I do with my FHA Connection ID number if I switch from one company to another?

A: If you are a Standard User, you should have your Application Coordinator terminate you on the system so you can apply for a new ID number with your new company. If you are an Application Coordinator, the remaining Application Coordinator should terminate you in the system. If you are the only Application Coordinator for the company you are leaving, you must have someone else register as an Application Coordinator before you leave. If you have already left without being terminated in the system, you will have to contact your local Homeownership Center. Q:: How do I update my authorizations on the FHA Connection?

A: Only an Application Coordinator can update authorizations.  This procedure can be done by accessing the ID maintenance window and choosing "Authorizations Update" from your menu. A Standard User will need to contact their Application Coordinator to have their authorizations updated.
 
Q: How do I reset my password?

A: You may change your password at anytime by accessing the ID maintenance window and choosing "Change Password" from your menu. The system will not accept any password with less than six or more than eight characters. If you do not remember your password, you will need to contact your local Homeownership Center to have your password reset.

Q: How secure is the FHA Connection?

A: The FHA Connection uses the Secure Socket Layer (SSL) communications protocol to ensure data security. SSL incorporates data encryption to protect data transmitted between an FHA Connection user's terminal and the HUD Internet server. SSL is the open standard for secure transactions on the World Wide Web. To use the FHA Connection, therefore, the Internet browser software you use must be SSL compliant.

Q: What is available through the FHA Connection?

A: Single Family Origination, Single Family Servicing, Lender Approval, & HMDA Data Submission

Q: How do I retrieve my case number when the FHA Connection indicates that my request has been placed on hold for review by the Field Office?

A: This happens when the property you are requesting a case number for already has a case number assigned to it. This will usually happen on PD properties and refinances. You can obtain your case number by following the case number assignment menu and selecting "HOLDS TRACKING" from you menu. FHA Connection give you the option of looking up your case number by name, address or status. Only one of these options can be used at a time. If you receive a message indicating "Processing" that means we have not processed your request yet.

Q: Are all the regular fees applicable for adding branches now that we can do this on the FHA Connection?

A: Yes, you may contact the Lender Approval and Recertification Division at (202) 708-3976 for more information about fees.

Q: Can we add an Underwriter through the FHA Connection?

A: Yes, by accessing the Underwriter Registry on the Approval List menu on the Single Family Origination page. You can add, change and terminate an Underwriter using this option.

Q: What is the difference between The FHA Connection and ECHO Connection Plus?

A: ECHO Connection Plus, previously know as CLAS, requires the purchase and installation of software, while with the FHA Connection, there are no transaction fees.