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Trigger-lead toolkit
The post-application call flood is now banned by federal law. Here's what protects you automatically — and the opt-outs still worth doing.
Apply for a mortgage and the calls used to start within a day — “trigger leads” sold off your credit inquiry. The law changed in 2026. Here's what protects you now, and the opt-outs still worth doing.
New in 2026 — the trigger-lead flood is now banned.
As of March 4, 2026 (180 days after it was signed on September 5, 2025), the Homebuyers Privacy Protection Act amended the FCRA so the credit bureaus can no longer sell your mortgage-inquiry data to lenders you haven't contacted. The only exceptions are a lender you already have a relationship with (your current mortgage/servicer or a deposit account) or one you explicitly opted in to — and only paired with a real, firm offer. The protection is automatic; there's nothing you have to sign up for.
Still worth doing — these cover the rest of the junk
The new law targets mortgage trigger leads specifically. These opt-outs handle broader credit, telemarketing, and direct-mail marketing:
- Prescreened credit & insurance offers — opt out at OptOutPrescreen.com or 888-567-8688 (an online or phone opt-out lasts 5 years; mailing the signed form makes it permanent).
- Telemarketing calls — register at donotcall.gov or 888-382-1222.
- Direct mail — reduce it at DMAchoice.org (run by the ANA; a small registration fee, good for 10 years).
Still getting unsolicited mortgage offers after you applied?
Since March 4, 2026, that may actually violate federal law. Don't engage — ask who they are and how they got your information, and don't hand over anything. Report it to the CFPB and the FTC. If a caller seems like a real lender, verify them on NMLS Consumer Access first.
General guidance, not legal advice. The protection is automatic and took effect March 4, 2026 (Pub. L. 119-36, amending FCRA §604); the opt-outs above handle broader marketing, not mortgage trigger leads. Confirm specifics with your loan officer.
Related read: Why the calls start the day you applyTerms on this page
- Pre-approvalA lender's written, conditional statement that you qualify for a loan amount based on verified income, assets, and credit — not a commitment to lend; final approval depends on the property and underwriting.
- Loan Estimate (LE)A standardized form showing your loan's rate, payment, and costs; you get it within three business days of applying, built for comparing lenders.
- Trigger leadYour mortgage credit inquiry sold to other lenders so they can solicit you — now banned by federal law in most cases.
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