Who can assume a VA mortgage loan is a critical consideration for individuals seeking to leverage the benefits of VA-backed financing without originating a new loan. This comprehensive exploration delves into the intricate eligibility requirements, procedural nuances, and strategic advantages associated with VA mortgage assumptions.
Understanding the eligibility criteria for both the original borrower and the prospective assumor is paramount. This involves scrutinizing the veteran’s entitlement, the property’s status, and the financial standing of the individual seeking to take over the existing loan. Furthermore, the process itself, from initial application to final closing, necessitates careful adherence to VA guidelines and the involvement of key stakeholders, including loan servicers and potentially third-party professionals.
Understanding VA Mortgage Loan Eligibility

Embarking on the journey of assuming a VA mortgage loan is akin to discovering a hidden treasure, a path that allows a new steward to step into the shoes of a homeownership dream already in motion. This process, while offering significant advantages, is guided by a set of precise criteria designed to honor the service of veterans and ensure the integrity of the VA loan program.
For those looking to inherit this benefit, understanding the foundational eligibility requirements is the first crucial step.The assumption of a VA mortgage loan is not a simple transfer of ownership; it is a carefully orchestrated transition that requires both the seller and the buyer to meet specific qualifications. The Department of Veterans Affairs, as the guarantor of these loans, plays a pivotal role in overseeing this process, ensuring that all parties adhere to the established guidelines.
This allows the VA loan benefit, once earned, to continue serving its intended purpose.
Primary Eligibility Criteria for Assuming a VA Mortgage Loan
The cornerstone of assuming a VA mortgage loan rests on the ability of the new borrower to qualify financially and to step into the shoes of the original VA loan holder without impacting the veteran’s entitlement. The primary criteria focus on the creditworthiness of the assuming party and the successful release of the original veteran from liability for the loan.
This ensures that the VA’s guarantee remains protected and that the property continues to be a secure investment.
Typical Requirements for the Veteran or Service Member Whose VA Loan is Being Assumed
For the veteran or service member, the most critical requirement is the release of their VA loan entitlement. This is achieved through the assumption process when the new buyer is approved by the lender and the VA. Until this release is officially granted, the original veteran remains liable for the mortgage payments. The VA aims to protect the veteran’s earned benefit, ensuring it can be utilized again for future homeownership.
General Process for a Non-Veteran to Qualify for Assuming a VA Mortgage
While the VA loan is a benefit for veterans, the assumption process is structured to allow eligible non-veterans to take over an existing VA loan. This typically involves a thorough application and underwriting process by the mortgage lender. The non-veteran must demonstrate sufficient income, a strong credit history, and a stable employment record to prove their ability to manage the mortgage payments.
The lender will assess these factors to determine qualification.
Specific VA Loan Entitlement Requirements Involved in an Assumption
The VA loan entitlement is the core of the VA home loan program. When a VA loan is assumed, the original veteran’s entitlement is technically still tied to the loan until the assumption is fully processed and the veteran is released from liability. For the assuming party, particularly if they are not a veteran, the entitlement itself is not transferred or used.
Instead, the process focuses on the assumption of the loan obligation and the property’s value.
The Role of the Department of Veterans Affairs in the Assumption Process
The Department of Veterans Affairs plays a supervisory and approval role in the VA loan assumption process. While the lender handles the day-to-day underwriting and approval of the assuming party, the VA ensures that the assumption is conducted in accordance with their guidelines. This includes verifying that the property meets VA standards and that the assumption process will result in the release of the original veteran’s liability.
The VA’s oversight is crucial for maintaining the integrity and benefits of the VA loan program.
The Assumption Process: Who Can Assume A Va Mortgage Loan

Embarking on the journey of assuming a VA mortgage is akin to inheriting a legacy, a transfer of responsibility and privilege. It’s a path that, while requiring diligence, can unlock the doors to homeownership for those who might otherwise find the initial hurdles too high. This process is meticulously designed to ensure that the new steward of the loan is as qualified and capable as the original, maintaining the integrity and security of the VA’s guarantee.The assumption process is not a spontaneous event but a structured sequence of actions, each building upon the last to facilitate a smooth transition.
It involves a careful orchestration between the buyer, the seller, the lender, and the Department of Veterans Affairs, ensuring all parties are aligned and all requirements are met. This detailed walkthrough will illuminate the path, demystifying each stage and empowering you with the knowledge to navigate it successfully.
VA Mortgage Assumption Steps
The assumption of a VA mortgage is a multi-stage endeavor, demanding careful attention to detail and timely execution. Each step is crucial for a successful transfer of the loan from the original borrower to the assuming party.
- Initiate the Assumption: The process officially begins when the buyer and seller agree to the assumption and notify the VA loan servicer. This initial communication is key to obtaining the necessary assumption application forms and understanding the servicer’s specific procedures.
- Loan Servicer Review: The loan servicer, acting as the intermediary, will then review the buyer’s qualifications. This is a critical phase where the assuming party’s financial stability, creditworthiness, and ability to manage the mortgage payments are thoroughly assessed.
- VA Approval: Once the loan servicer is satisfied with the buyer’s profile, the application is forwarded to the VA for their final approval. The VA’s endorsement is essential, as it confirms that the loan can be transferred while maintaining its VA-guaranteed status.
- Closing: Upon receiving VA approval, the parties proceed to closing. This is where all legal documents are signed, and the financial obligations are settled. The original borrower is released from liability, and the assuming party officially takes over the mortgage.
Documentation Requirements
The successful assumption of a VA mortgage hinges on the meticulous preparation and submission of comprehensive documentation. Both the original borrower and the prospective assuming party must provide a detailed account of their financial standing and identity to satisfy the stringent requirements of the lender and the VA.For the Original Borrower, the primary need is to demonstrate a history of responsible loan management and to facilitate their release from future liability.
This typically includes:
- Proof of identity and VA loan entitlement.
- A complete payment history for the existing VA loan.
- Authorization for the loan servicer to release information to the assuming party.
The Assuming Party must present a robust profile that assures the lender and the VA of their ability to assume the financial obligations. Essential documents include:
- A completed VA loan assumption application.
- Proof of income and employment, such as recent pay stubs, W-2s, or tax returns.
- Bank statements and other financial records to verify assets.
- A credit report, which will be pulled by the loan servicer, to assess credit history and scores.
- Proof of identity and Social Security number.
- A signed purchase agreement outlining the terms of the sale and assumption.
The Appraisal Process, Who can assume a va mortgage loan
While a full VA appraisal may not always be required for every assumption, a valuation of the property is a crucial step in determining the loan amount that can be assumed. The VA’s primary concern is that the loan amount being assumed does not exceed the current market value of the property, ensuring that the VA’s guarantee remains sound.The loan servicer will typically order an appraisal or a property inspection to confirm the property’s value.
This valuation is essential for several reasons:
- Confirming Property Value: It establishes the current market value of the home, ensuring that the loan amount being assumed is in line with the property’s worth. This protects both the lender and the VA.
- Determining Assumption Loan Amount: The appraised value influences the maximum loan amount that the assuming party can take over. If the outstanding loan balance exceeds the appraised value, the assuming party will need to cover the difference in cash.
- Ensuring Property Condition: The appraisal also assesses the overall condition of the property, identifying any significant issues that might affect its value or habitability.
For instance, if a home with an outstanding VA loan balance of $250,000 is appraised at $240,000, the assuming party can only assume $240,000 of the loan. The remaining $10,000 would need to be paid in cash by the assuming party to the seller.
The Role of the Loan Servicer
The loan servicer acts as the central orchestrator in the VA mortgage assumption process. They are the primary point of contact for both the original borrower and the assuming party, guiding them through each stage and ensuring all regulatory requirements are met. Their role is multifaceted and critical to the successful transfer of the loan.The loan servicer’s responsibilities include:
- Processing Applications: They receive and review all assumption applications from potential buyers, verifying income, credit history, and other financial qualifications.
- Facilitating Communication: They act as the liaison between the buyer, seller, and the VA, ensuring clear and consistent communication throughout the process.
- Ordering Valuations: The servicer is responsible for ordering the appraisal or property inspection to determine the current market value of the home.
- Preparing Assumption Documents: They prepare the necessary legal and financial documents for the assumption, including the assumption agreement and closing disclosures.
- Securing VA Approval: They submit the complete assumption package to the VA for final approval, ensuring all VA guidelines are adhered to.
- Coordinating Closing: The servicer works with all parties to schedule and facilitate the closing of the assumption, ensuring all final financial transactions are completed accurately.
Financial Responsibilities at Closing
The closing of a VA mortgage assumption marks the culmination of the process, where the assuming party assumes all financial obligations associated with the loan. This involves a clear understanding and settlement of various costs and payments, ensuring a clean transfer of ownership and responsibility.The assuming party’s financial responsibilities at closing typically include:
- The Loan Balance: The primary financial responsibility is to assume the outstanding balance of the VA mortgage loan. This amount is determined by the property’s appraised value and the original loan amount.
- Assumption Fees: Lenders and servicers often charge fees for processing the assumption. These can include origination fees, processing fees, and administrative costs. These fees are typically a percentage of the loan amount or a flat rate. For example, a lender might charge a 1% assumption fee on a $200,000 loan, amounting to $2,000.
- Prorated Property Taxes and Homeowners Insurance: The assuming party will be responsible for paying their portion of property taxes and homeowners insurance premiums that have already been paid by the seller but cover a period extending beyond the closing date. This is a prorated adjustment.
- Closing Costs: In addition to assumption fees, the assuming party will incur standard closing costs. These can include appraisal fees, title insurance, recording fees, and any legal fees associated with the transaction. These costs can vary significantly but might range from 2% to 5% of the loan amount.
- Down Payment (if applicable): While VA loans are known for their no-down-payment option, if the outstanding loan balance exceeds the appraised value, the assuming party will need to pay the difference in cash to the seller. For instance, if the loan balance is $250,000 and the appraisal comes in at $240,000, the assuming party must provide $10,000 in cash at closing.
Benefits and Drawbacks of VA Mortgage Assumptions

Venturing into the world of VA mortgage assumptions can feel like discovering a hidden path, one that may lead to significant financial advantages or present unexpected challenges. This journey requires a keen understanding of both the allure and the potential pitfalls, allowing you to navigate this unique financing avenue with clarity and confidence.Assumptions are not merely a transaction; they are an intricate dance of financial strategies, where the echoes of a previous agreement can resonate powerfully with your own future.
By dissecting the benefits and drawbacks, we illuminate the landscape, empowering you to make an informed decision that aligns with your dreams of homeownership.
Advantages for a Buyer Assuming an Existing VA Mortgage
Stepping into an existing VA mortgage can feel like inheriting a treasure. The primary allure lies in the potential to bypass the often-arduous process of securing a new loan, and more importantly, to inherit a favorable interest rate that might be elusive in the current market. This can translate into immediate and substantial savings over the life of the loan, making homeownership more accessible and affordable.
- Favorable Interest Rate: The most significant advantage is the ability to assume the seller’s existing VA loan, which often carries an interest rate lower than what is currently available in the market. This means lower monthly payments and significant savings on the total interest paid over the loan’s term. For instance, if a seller has a VA loan at 3.5% and current rates are 6.5%, assuming the loan can save the buyer thousands of dollars annually.
- Reduced Closing Costs: While there are still fees associated with an assumption, they are generally lower than those associated with originating a new mortgage. This can include reduced appraisal fees, origination fees, and other lender charges, making the upfront cost of homeownership more manageable.
- Faster Closing Process: Since the loan is already established, the underwriting and approval process for an assumption can be quicker than for a new loan. This can be a significant benefit for buyers eager to move into their new home without prolonged waiting periods.
- No VA Funding Fee: When a VA loan is assumed, the buyer is typically not required to pay a new VA funding fee, which can be a substantial percentage of the loan amount for new VA loans. This further reduces the upfront financial burden.
Potential Disadvantages for a Buyer Assuming an Existing VA Mortgage
While the prospect of assuming a VA loan is enticing, it’s crucial to acknowledge the potential drawbacks. These can include limitations on the loan amount, the need for the seller to have sufficient equity, and the possibility of inheriting a loan that doesn’t perfectly align with the buyer’s financial situation or future plans.
- Loan Balance Limitations: The buyer can only assume the existing loan balance. If the outstanding balance is higher than what the buyer can afford or qualify for with a new loan, an assumption may not be feasible.
- Seller Equity Requirements: The seller must have sufficient equity in the home to cover the difference between the assumed loan balance and the agreed-upon purchase price. If the seller has little to no equity, the buyer will need to bring a substantial amount of cash to closing to cover the difference.
- VA Loan Limits: While the VA loan itself has no national loan limit, lenders often impose their own limits. The assumed loan amount must still fall within these limits, which might restrict the purchase of higher-priced homes.
- Limited Negotiation on Terms: The terms of the assumed loan, including the interest rate and repayment period, are fixed from the original loan. Buyers cannot negotiate these terms to better suit their specific financial needs or preferences.
- Potential for Higher Out-of-Pocket Expenses: If the purchase price exceeds the assumed loan balance, the buyer will need to pay the difference in cash. This can sometimes be a larger sum than a typical down payment on a new loan, especially if the seller has significant equity.
Comparison of Benefits: Assuming a VA Loan Versus Obtaining a New VA Loan
The decision between assuming an existing VA loan and obtaining a new one hinges on a careful evaluation of current market conditions and individual financial circumstances. While a new VA loan offers flexibility and the opportunity to secure the latest loan products, an assumption can provide immediate cost savings and a streamlined process.
| Feature | Assuming a VA Mortgage | Obtaining a New VA Mortgage |
|---|---|---|
| Interest Rate | Inherits seller’s rate, often lower than current market rates. | Secures current market rates, which may be higher or lower. |
| Closing Costs | Generally lower, with fewer origination fees. | Typically higher, including origination fees, appraisal, etc. |
| VA Funding Fee | Usually waived for the buyer. | Typically required, unless exempt. |
| Loan Terms | Fixed by the original loan; no negotiation. | Can be negotiated; various loan products available. |
| Process Speed | Can be faster due to existing loan structure. | Can be longer due to full underwriting and appraisal. |
| Upfront Cash Requirement | May be higher if purchase price exceeds loan balance. | Typically requires a down payment (though often 0% for VA). |
Circumstances Where Assuming a VA Mortgage is Particularly Advantageous
Certain scenarios elevate the appeal of VA mortgage assumptions, transforming them from a niche option into a strategic financial move. These moments are often characterized by a significant divergence between historical and current interest rates, or by a buyer’s desire for a swifter, more predictable path to homeownership.
- High Interest Rate Environment: When current mortgage interest rates are significantly higher than those offered on existing VA loans, assuming a loan becomes exceptionally attractive. The savings on monthly payments and total interest can be substantial, making homeownership attainable for buyers who might otherwise be priced out.
- Buyers with Limited Cash for Down Payment and Closing Costs: If a buyer has limited funds for a traditional down payment and the associated closing costs of a new loan, assuming an existing VA loan can be a more accessible option, especially if the purchase price is close to the assumed loan balance.
- Desire for a Quicker Move-In: For buyers who need to relocate quickly, the potentially faster closing timeline associated with VA loan assumptions can be a critical advantage.
- Sellers Offering a Good Price with Existing Equity: When a seller has a desirable property, has built up significant equity, and is motivated to sell, they may be willing to price the home competitively, making the assumption more financially viable for the buyer.
Financial Implications of Assuming a Loan with a Lower Interest Rate
The ripple effect of a lower interest rate on an assumed VA mortgage is profound, extending far beyond the monthly payment. It is a fundamental shift in the financial architecture of homeownership, offering tangible benefits that accrue over time.The most immediate and apparent impact is the reduction in the monthly principal and interest payment. This frees up cash flow, allowing homeowners to allocate funds towards other financial goals, such as investments, savings, or even accelerating principal payments to pay off the mortgage sooner.Consider a hypothetical scenario:A buyer assumes a VA loan with a remaining balance of $300,000 at 3.5% interest.
The original loan term was 30 years, with 25 years remaining. The monthly principal and interest payment would be approximately $1,347.If this buyer were to obtain a new VA loan for the same amount and term at a current market rate of 6.5%, the monthly principal and interest payment would be approximately $1,896.The difference in monthly payments is $1,896 – $1,347 = $549.
Over the remaining 25 years, this translates to a total interest savings of approximately $164,700.
“The power of compounding interest works both ways; a lower rate on an assumed loan magnifies savings, while a higher rate amplifies costs.”
This substantial savings can significantly impact a homeowner’s financial well-being, providing a buffer against unexpected expenses and enhancing their overall financial security. Furthermore, by reducing the total interest paid, the homeowner builds equity in their home at a faster pace, increasing their net worth over time.
Scenarios and Types of VA Loan Assumptions

The dream of homeownership, especially for our nation’s heroes, often involves the VA home loan. While the initial acquisition is a significant milestone, life’s journey can lead to unexpected turns, making the assumption of a VA mortgage a crucial pathway for many. This intricate process allows another qualified individual to step into the shoes of the original borrower, taking over the existing loan with its favorable terms.
Understanding the nuances of these scenarios and the different types of assumptions is key to navigating this often complex, yet rewarding, financial landscape.VA mortgage assumptions are not merely abstract financial maneuvers; they are rooted in practical life events. Imagine a veteran who has served their country, secured a VA loan, and now, due to a PCS (Permanent Change of Station) order, needs to relocate quickly.
Or perhaps a veteran is ready to downsize, but their current home holds a VA loan with an interest rate significantly lower than current market offerings. These are fertile grounds where an assumption can bloom, preserving the benefits of the original VA loan for a new owner.
Common Scenarios for VA Loan Assumptions
Life’s transitions present a variety of situations where a VA mortgage assumption becomes a sensible and advantageous solution. These scenarios often involve a desire to retain the favorable terms of an existing VA loan, particularly when market interest rates have risen.
- Military Relocation: A service member receives new orders requiring them to move to a different state or overseas. Instead of selling the home conventionally, they can allow another qualified individual to assume their VA loan, thus avoiding potential capital gains taxes and market fluctuations.
- Financial Restructuring: A veteran may wish to free up equity or consolidate debt. If they have a VA loan with a low interest rate, allowing someone else to assume it can provide them with capital while the new borrower benefits from the advantageous loan terms.
- Downsizing or Upsizing: A veteran who has paid down their VA loan or whose financial needs have changed might opt to sell their current home. An assumption can be a quicker and more cost-effective sale compared to a traditional sale, especially if the buyer is also a veteran or a non-veteran who can qualify for the assumption.
- Divorce or Separation: In cases of marital dissolution, one party may wish to keep the home and assume the VA mortgage, provided they meet the VA’s and the lender’s qualification requirements.
- Inheritance: A surviving spouse or family member who inherits a property with a VA loan may be able to assume the mortgage if they are deemed qualified.
Full vs. Partial VA Loan Assumptions
The distinction between a full and a partial assumption is fundamental to understanding how responsibility for a VA mortgage can be transferred. Each type addresses different needs and involves distinct levels of borrower commitment.A full assumption means that the new borrower takes on the entire responsibility for the existing VA mortgage. This includes the outstanding loan balance, the interest rate, and all associated terms and conditions.
The original borrower is completely released from their obligation to the loan.A partial assumption, on the other hand, allows the new borrower to take over responsibility for only a portion of the outstanding loan balance. The original borrower remains responsible for the remaining balance. This type of assumption is less common with VA loans and typically requires specific lender approval and adherence to strict VA guidelines.
It’s often used in scenarios where a buyer can pay a significant portion of the home’s value in cash and wants to assume the remaining mortgage balance.
The Impact of the VA Loan Funding Fee on Assumptions
The VA loan funding fee is a one-time charge paid to the Department of Veterans Affairs to help keep down the costs for taxpayers. When a VA loan is assumed, the treatment of this fee undergoes a significant change, impacting both the original borrower and the assuming borrower.In most cases, when a VA loan is assumed, the original borrower is exempt from paying the VA funding fee again.
This is because the funding fee was already paid when the loan was originally originated. However, the assuming borrower, if they are a veteran and are using their VA loan entitlement for the first time or are eligible for an exemption, may also be exempt. If the assuming borrower is a veteran who has used their entitlement before and does not qualify for an exemption, they will generally be responsible for paying the VA funding fee on the assumed loan balance.
The VA funding fee is typically waived for veterans assuming a VA loan if they are eligible for a VA loan themselves and are assuming the loan to maintain their home. However, if the assuming party is not a veteran or is a veteran who has previously used their entitlement and does not qualify for an exemption, they will be responsible for the funding fee.
Non-Veterans Assuming a VA Mortgage
While VA loans are designed for veterans, the assumption process can, under specific circumstances, allow a non-veteran to take over the mortgage. This is a critical aspect that opens up possibilities for a broader range of buyers.A non-veteran can assume a VA mortgage if they meet the lender’s qualification requirements for creditworthiness, income, and debt-to-income ratio, and crucially, if the original loan was originated before March 1, 1988, or if the loan was originated after that date and the veteran borrower is being released from liability.
The VA aims to protect its entitlement program, so the circumstances under which a non-veteran can assume a loan are carefully regulated. The lender plays a vital role in assessing the non-veteran’s financial stability.
Types of VA Loan Assumptions by Borrower Status
The classification of VA loan assumptions can be neatly categorized based on the veteran status of the individual taking over the mortgage. This distinction is important for understanding eligibility, potential funding fee implications, and the overall benefit to the assuming party.
Veterans and eligible surviving spouses can assume a VA mortgage loan, a significant benefit. This process is quite different from understanding when can i cancel fha mortgage insurance , a separate concern for FHA borrowers. Ultimately, the ability to assume a VA loan hinges on specific VA guidelines for qualified individuals.
- Veteran Assuming from a Veteran: This is the most straightforward scenario. The assuming veteran must be eligible for VA loan benefits and meet the lender’s qualification criteria. They will generally be able to assume the loan without paying a new VA funding fee if they have not used their entitlement previously or are eligible for an exemption.
- Veteran Assuming from a Non-Veteran (Rare): While less common, if a veteran is purchasing a property from a non-veteran who has assumed a VA loan, the veteran can then re-establish the VA loan status, provided they meet all VA eligibility and lender requirements.
- Non-Veteran Assuming from a Veteran: As discussed, this is possible under specific conditions, particularly for loans originated before March 1, 1988, or when the original veteran borrower is released from liability. The non-veteran must fully qualify based on the lender’s standards. They will not be subject to the VA funding fee as they are not using VA entitlement.
- Non-Veteran Assuming from a Non-Veteran (Rare): If a non-veteran previously assumed a VA loan, another non-veteran could potentially assume it again, subject to lender approval and the original loan terms. This often involves loans originated before the March 1, 1988 cutoff.
Wrap-Up

In summation, the assumption of a VA mortgage loan presents a distinct pathway to homeownership, offering potential financial advantages, particularly through lower interest rates and reduced closing costs. Navigating the eligibility requirements and the step-by-step assumption process, while understanding the roles and responsibilities of all parties involved, is essential for a successful transaction. By thoroughly evaluating the benefits and drawbacks, and carefully managing the legal and financial aspects, eligible individuals can effectively harness the power of VA loan assumptions to achieve their housing goals.
FAQ
What is the primary eligibility requirement for a veteran to have their VA loan assumed?
The original veteran borrower must have successfully completed the loan and be in good standing with their payments. Their VA loan entitlement must also be available for transfer, meaning it has not been fully utilized by another VA-guaranteed loan simultaneously.
Can a non-veteran assume a VA mortgage loan?
Yes, a non-veteran can assume a VA mortgage loan, provided they meet the lender’s and the VA’s financial and creditworthiness requirements. They will undergo a rigorous underwriting process to ensure they can handle the loan obligations.
What is the role of the VA in the assumption process?
The VA’s primary role is to guarantee the loan. While they do not directly approve or deny assumptions, they establish the guidelines and requirements that lenders must follow. They also provide oversight to ensure the process adheres to VA regulations.
Does assuming a VA mortgage require a down payment?
Generally, assuming a VA mortgage does not require a down payment from the assuming party, especially if the loan is being assumed at its current outstanding balance. However, the assuming party must pay the difference if the property’s market value is higher than the loan balance, and this difference may be financed through a secondary loan or paid in cash.
What is the difference between a full and partial assumption of a VA loan?
A full assumption involves the assuming party taking over the entire loan obligation, releasing the original borrower from all liability. A partial assumption, which is less common and often discouraged by the VA, involves the original borrower retaining some liability for the loan, typically when the assuming party takes over the property but not the full loan responsibility.
How does the VA loan funding fee impact an assumption?
When a VA loan is assumed, the assuming party, whether a veteran or not, typically pays a VA funding fee. This fee is generally lower than the funding fee for a new VA loan and is calculated based on the loan amount being assumed and the assumor’s veteran status, if applicable.
What documentation is crucial for a VA loan assumption?
Key documents include the VA Form 26-6056, Assumption of Loan Certificate, which details the terms of the assumption and the parties involved. Additionally, both the original borrower and the assuming party will need to provide financial statements, pay stubs, tax returns, and credit reports.