How to Check an NMLS Number Using Consumer Access

The Nationwide Multistate Licensing System (NMLS) is a centralized database for licensing and registering financial professionals, primarily mortgage loan originators, across the United States. Verifying credentials through this system is a crucial step for consumer protection, enabling informed decision-making in financial transactions.

Understanding the NMLS Number

An NMLS Unique Identifier is a permanent number assigned by the Nationwide Multistate Licensing System & Registry to each organization, branch, and individual maintaining an account within the system. This identifier is assigned when an entity first creates its record and remains unchanged throughout their career or operations, even if they change companies or move between states. Mortgage loan originators, lenders, brokers, and certain state-licensed financial professionals are required to obtain and maintain an NMLS number. The NMLS number signifies that the individual or company has met specific licensing or registration requirements, including educational training, passing examinations, and undergoing background checks.

Using the NMLS Consumer Access Website

To verify a financial professional, the NMLS Consumer Access website provides a public, searchable interface. This free online tool allows individuals to research the professional background of mortgage companies, branches, and loan originators. To begin a search, navigate to the official NMLS Consumer Access website.

Once on the website, you can find a search bar or a clear prompt to begin your inquiry. Search options include entering an NMLS ID, a name, a company name, or a geographic location like a city or state. Entering the NMLS ID is often the most direct and efficient method for precise results, but searching by name or company name is also effective.

After inputting the desired search criteria, select the appropriate entity type, such as “Individual” or “Company,” and click the search button to retrieve results. If multiple results appear, you can refine your search using available filters, which may include selecting specific states or entity types to narrow down the displayed profiles. Clicking on a specific name or company from the search results will then lead you to their detailed NMLS profile.

Information Available Through the Search

Upon accessing an individual’s or company’s NMLS profile through Consumer Access, various categories of information become available. The profile displays the license status and history for each state where the professional is licensed, including its status (active, inactive, or other conditions).

The profile also provides employment history, detailing past and current employers within the financial services industry for the last 10 years. Information regarding any disciplinary actions or regulatory events against the individual or company is also disclosed. Additionally, contact information for the licensee, such as address, phone number, and website, may be available. Some profiles may also include information related to consumer complaints, offering further insight into the professional’s conduct.