How to Send a Qualified Written Request (QWR) Under RESPA

If you are confused about your mortgage balance, fees, or who actually owns your loan, you have a federal right to demand answers. This is called a Qualified Written Request (QWR)*, also known as a *Request for Information (RFI) under Regulation X (12 C.F.R. § 1024.36).

What is a QWR?

A QWR is a formal letter that triggers a legal duty for your mortgage servicer to provide specific information about your loan. Unlike a customer service call, a QWR forces the servicer to go on the record.

What Can You Ask For?

You can ask for almost anything related to the servicing of your loan:
* Payment History: A complete ledger of all payments and how they were applied.
* The Note: A copy of the original promissory note to see who you actually owe.
* Fee Breakdown: An explanation of specific fees (inspection fees, late fees, corporate advances).
* Loan Owner: The name, address, and telephone number of the owner of your loan (the investor), not just the servicer.

How to Send It

To trigger federal protection, your QWR must:
1. Be in Writing: You cannot do this over the phone.
2. Be Sent to the Designated Address: Servicers have a specific address for “Requests for Information.” Sending it to the payment address might not work.
3. Identify the Loan: Include your name, account number, and property address.
4. Be Specific: State clearly what information you are requesting.

The Timeline

Once they receive your QWR:
* 5 Days: They must acknowledge receipt.
* 30 Days: They must provide the requested information or explain why it is not available.

Why It Matters

If the servicer fails to respond or provides incomplete information, they may be liable for statutory damages and your attorney’s fees. This is a powerful tool to force transparency.