How Do I Know If I Have a Mortgage Credit Certificate?

A Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) provides tax benefits for eligible homeowners by allowing them to claim a federal tax credit on a portion of their mortgage interest. However, many homeowners are unsure if they have one.

Reviewing Your Original Loan Documents

Your loan paperwork can clarify whether you were issued an MCC. Check your closing package for references to the certificate, which may be included as a separate document or mentioned in agreements outlining tax benefits.

Key documents to review include the Closing Disclosure and Loan Estimate. The Closing Disclosure details mortgage terms, including loan amount, interest rate, and closing costs, and may mention an MCC in sections related to loan-related costs or government programs. The Loan Estimate, provided before closing, might also reference the certificate.

Additionally, review correspondence from your lender or housing agency regarding special financing programs. MCCs are often issued alongside first-time homebuyer assistance, so documents related to down payment assistance or subsidized loan terms could provide confirmation. If you participated in a state-sponsored homebuyer program, agreements from that process may indicate MCC eligibility.

Confirming Details with Your Mortgage Lender

Your mortgage lender can confirm whether you have an MCC. Since lenders help facilitate MCCs during loan origination, they should have records of its issuance. If customer service representatives are unfamiliar with MCCs, request to speak with a loan officer or someone in underwriting or compliance who handles government-backed homeownership programs.

Ask your lender to review your loan file for MCC-related documentation. If one was issued, they may provide a copy or direct you to the housing agency that administers it. If your mortgage was sold or transferred, you may need to contact the original lender.

If you refinanced, check how it affected your MCC. Refinancing can void the certificate unless steps were taken to reapply or transfer it. Some state housing agencies offer reissuance programs, but homeowners must apply. Your lender should confirm if any actions were taken to retain MCC benefits.

Checking Your Tax Records

Your tax filings can reveal whether you’ve been using an MCC. Since it provides a federal tax credit based on mortgage interest, the credit should appear on past tax returns.

Look for IRS Form 8396, used to claim the MCC credit. If you or your tax preparer completed this form in previous years, it confirms you have an MCC. Reviewing past returns, particularly Schedule 3 of Form 1040, can also indicate if an MCC-related credit reduced your tax liability.

If you use tax software, search prior filings for mortgage interest credits. Many tax programs save historical data, allowing you to check whether Form 8396 was included. If you work with a tax professional, request a summary of mortgage-related credits from past years. The IRS also provides transcripts of prior returns through its online “Get Transcript” tool, which can be useful if you don’t have paper copies.

Contacting State or Local Housing Agencies

State and local housing agencies administer MCC programs and can verify whether one was assigned to your mortgage. These programs are typically managed by state housing finance authorities (HFAs) or municipal housing departments. Checking your state’s HFA website or calling their office can help you find the right contact.

Each agency has its own process for retrieving MCC records, but they generally require your name, property address, and loan origination date. Some may ask for additional documentation, like a mortgage statement, before providing information. If your state offers an online portal for homebuyer assistance programs, logging in may give you direct access to MCC status or related documents.