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Now that you got your NMLS license, there’s still some work to do to maintain it and become an established mortgage loan originator or mortgage broker. Did you know that you have to renew your license every year? It’s true! Here’s everything you need to know about the NMLS license renewal process for 2018.
The Basics
Every year, the NMLS license renewal accepts requests from companies and individuals. Information is submitted via the NMLS website. This also allows regulators access these requests to approve, reject, or request additional information for additional review if necessary. While the process is pretty simple, there are some things to know ahead of time that can make the whole process of renewing your mortgage loan originator loan license much simpler.
One of the most important things to know is that you can’t just log in and expect to renew your license whenever you want. In fact, there’s a specific renewal period every year that runs from November 1 through December 31. If you’re planning to renew your license, you have to demonstrate that your record is up to date and pay a renewal fee to NMLS. Additional fees may also be charged by the state you’re licensed in. Sometimes, the company you work for will handle this fee for you but you should always check to be sure before you start the process.
Because the renewal process is done completely online, NMLS is very specific about their browser requirements. Make sure that you are using an updated computer with an Internet browser that meets all of their requirements. Also, everything will go a little quicker if you have your login and password taken care of ahead of time.
The Process
As we mentioned, the entire process is completed online. The forms are pretty easy to understand and fill out. Here’s what you should expect.
When you initially log in to renew, you’ll choose from three options:
- Attest to Company Workflow, to verify that your information is accurate and then your employer will pay for your renewal.
- Attest and Pay Workflow, to verify your information and pay for your renewal yourself.
- Do Not Renew, if you do not wish to renew.
Make sure that all of the information in your file is correct and updated beforehand. If something has changed for you throughout the year, it’s helpful if those changes have already been reported and processed so there are no problems throughout the process. If anything has changed and was unreported, go to the filing section and make the necessary changes.
You should also be sure that you have met all of the state-specific requirements. Some states require additional continuing education credits or fees that have to be taken care of in addition to those requirements by NMLC.
NMLS may also require more information for a renewal. This is why they recommend starting the renewal process as early as possible in the renewal period. If you have questions or need to get additional information, you will have a lot more time to do so than if you wait until the end of December to start. Plus, the call center has a lot more calls during this period so, if you do need help, you may have to wait awhile to get it. If you start early, you could save some aggravation.
If you choose not to renew your license, you have to go through the process and inform your regulator that you do not wish to renew. Some states may also require additional information in this instance as well. Should you change your mind or make this request in error, there is a recall process but you must act quickly to take advantage of it.
We should also note that licenses that have been denied, repealed, or surrendered cannot be renewed.
What Happens if I Miss the Renewal Period?
If you miss the renewal period from November 1 through December 31, you can apply again during the reinstatement period but you will probably have to pay a late fee in addition to other fees. It’s also important to note that not all state agencies allow reinstatement so check the appropriate agency to see what the policy is. If you are not allowed to renew, you’ll be required to apply as a new applicant, which has more requirements than a renewal.
As we said, if you do miss the initial deadline, it’s very important to make sure your agency allows reinstatement before you submit any applications. If they do not and you don’t know so you submit past the December 31 deadline, the regulator will reject the application. They can also opt to change the status of your license to non-renewable before you realize that there was a problem and you’ll later realize that you need to apply as a new applicant. This leaves you with a longer period of time without a license, which could be detrimental to your business.
Some regulators can also provide different reinstatement time frames that you can take advantage of but this is on a state by state basis. The best way to proceed after missing the initial deadline is to check with your regulator to make sure you’re taking the best course of action in your state.
Resources
The NMLS Resource Center has a lot of information that will help you sort through the things you need to know on a state by state basis. Because there are different rules and standards from state to state, it can be difficult to know what you need to do, especially if you’re attempting to get licensed in more than one state. For example, one of the most important things to pay attention to is the continuing education requirements for each state.
Possible Problems
Here is a list of some of the things that could go wrong during the renewal process to help you avoid these problems ahead of time:
- CE requirements not completed
- The regulator has previously marked license as not renewable
- Criminal background check not complete or expired
- Credit report not submitted or expired
- Fingerprints on file expired