Loan proceeds are not considered income and are not taxable. Consult a tax advisor for more information.

The FHA reverse mortgage loan exists to help the homeowner to stay in their home. The loan typically does not become due, as long as the borrower meets the loan obligations. For example, the homeowner must reside in the home as their primary residence, pay their property and homeowners insurance and maintain the home according to FHA guidelines. In the event the borrower does not adhere to these responsibilities, HUD guidelines may require the servicer to initiate foreclosure proceedings.

The estate does inherit the home, but there will be a lien on the title. If your heirs wish to retain the property, then the full amount of the loan must be paid regardless of property value. The amount due at loan maturity is the principal borrowed plus any accrued interest and mortgage insurance premium.

For example, if someone with a $250,000 home passes away and leaves a reverse mortgage loan balance of $80,000, then the estate would sell the home for $250,000, repay $80,000 to the bank, and keep the $170,000 difference.

As a non-recourse loan, lenders can only look to the value of the home for repayment; no other assets may be attached if the loan balance grows beyond the mortgaged home value. You or your heirs will not be required to pay more than the value of your home at the time the loan is repaid; even if your loan balance exceeds the value of your home provided you or your heirs decide to sell the home.

No, banks and other lenders are interested in originating loans and earning interest. Rather than owning the home, the bank or lender adds a lien in the form of a reverse mortgage loan onto the title so they can eventually collect the amount loaned plus interest.

No. The funds can be used without restriction. However, there is one exception. The borrower may be required to set aside additional funds from the loan proceeds to pay for taxes and insurance.